How's training going? - A few videos to inspire you ..

Gilbert putting the miles in


Cancellara prepares for Roubaix


HTC in Mallorca


Sky in Mallorca

MTB Orienteering - 28th Dec - Eelmoor

Fancy something different between Xmas and new Year?
This is a local event, based at Eelmoor and taking place Wednesday 28th December
Organised by the British Army Orienteering club but open to civilians too

Can't read the image below?
Download pdf file here 

Team Kit Bags Anyone?

Last year we spoke about getting some personalised team kit bags. 

Attached is a graphic for VCM bag with side pocket. This is without current sponsor logos so that the bag would be suitable for an extended period of use.

3 sizes available, with or without side pocket option, made in Italy.

Price from £27.00+vat (personalisation and delivery included).

We would need a minimum of 12 bags made.

If you are interested let us know via a comment on the blog (include your name) or contact either Keith or Ben.

Thinking about racing?

Then Ian Franklin would like to hear from you:

Hi all, and that includes ladies.

Have you been riding sportives this year, or attending our club rides? Would you like to take it a step further and give road/circuit racing a try in 2012?

If so, there is a wealth of experience available within the club: Just ask and we will advise you on getting started and how to obtain a racing licence. 4th category races are where you will start to gain experience of riding in a bunch of riders and hopefully progress to cat 3 and up. At this stage I just want to get an idea of numbers and to be able to let you know what events are coming up. Also to answer any questions you may have. 

We had a great 2011, 4th cat wise, in the eleven Surrey League evening events at Dunsfold circuit this year: A total of  15 top ten placings including 4 wins, 3 seconds and 3 thirds. Most of our 4th cat riders are no more having achieved their 3rd cat (and in some cases 2nd cat) licences. 

It's a great opportunity for the club to win points for the Season long Surrey League competition but we need more 4th cat riders for 2012. In addition to Surrey League there are also some early season events at Thruxton and Goodwood. It has to be said however that the Dunsfold events have smaller fields and are easier than Goodwood and Craig's Eelmoor crits.

If you haven't raced before and are thinking of doing so it's a good introduction on a flat (but sometimes windy) circuit. Subject to the Surrey League (SL) the races should run from late May until mid September.

You can reach me at ianfranklin@ntlworld.com Please put “4th cat racing” in the subject line.

Ian Franklin

Ian's close shave

Ian Franklin talks blue moustaches and close shaves

"You may have noticed me sporting a moustache and that recently it has become blue. Purely by chance, back in October, I was diagnosed with Prostate cancer, albeit not an aggressive type. This came as a complete shock to me, after all ignorance is bliss! So much so that I took part in “Movember” where participants grow a 'tache for the month to raise funds to help raise awareness, offer support, and sponsor research into men's cancers.

Subsequently I agreed to keep the 'tache a further two weeks and dye it blue if donations reached £500. Thanks to generous friends the £500 target has been passed but my donation page at http://uk.movember.com/mospace/2023734 is still open should you wish to donate. The 'tache is due to be shaved off this Sunday evening (18 Dec) It will have been a close shave on two fronts.

Finally, men often seem reluctant to go to the doctor or talk about health issues
“one man in this country dies of prostate cancer EVERY HOUR, of every day..” Do yourself, your wife or partner, and family a favour: Please, if you are 50 or older see your doctor about a PSA test which can be a indicator of prostate problems."

http://uk.movember.com/mens-health/
http://uk.movember.com/about/beneficiary1

Terry and Craig's chalk chase Saturday 31st December

The annual event of the year and the official unofficial VCM off road championship.
This year 9.30 start from Seale tea rooms heading east to Surrey Hills. Make it as hard or as easy as you like. The route will be marked by Terry and Craig with a brief stop at the 2 hour point. After that a flattish return to Seale. Mostly off road with some great single track and descents. Come and work off the Christmas excess or help yourself to justify the New Years Eve blow out.
All standards welcome-- cross bikes, mountain bikes- follow the trail and regroup at the stop.

Dancing on ice with Ken R

Some more timely advice from Ken Ruffel on how to ride when the icy weather arrives:

Group training in icy weather
Keeping fit during the winter is something we all need to do. A complete lay-off should not be an option! If you can fit into one of the Meudon training rides on a Tuesday, Wednesday, Thursday, Saturday or Sunday, then you’ll keep fit.
But when the icy weather comes, you’ll need some special skills. Training in a group on icy stretches requires special attention. The group rides on any one of these days will differ in ability, skill and overall safety.
Our elite groups might go a bit faster, but the safety element will always be to a maximum. It’s a bit like F1.........you can always trust the wheels in front of you! Some of our other groups of novice or lower category riders may not feel as confident in the wheels in front of them, so a few tips here might help:
• THREE MAIN RULES FOR RIDING ON ICE IN A GROUP!
1. Stretch out! - ride at least a bike-length gap from the rider in front of you.
2. Do not even think about touching your brakes.
3. Ride on the tops of the bars with more body weight over your rear wheel.

• Riding on icy road stretches can be a bit daunting. You will still be riding in two lines, at tempo, and the safety of the whole group will depend on the judgement of the leading pair. Their eyes will see what’s coming up. They should verbally warn the group behind of an icy road ahead, just as they do for holes and gravel.

• Always be aware of your situation on the bike and in the group. Pay attention to where you are in the group. Be alert at all times. Keep your eyes focussed ahead. The more you know about any possible danger, the more in control you are.

• React appropriately to any warning signs from the front pair riding tempo. Don't overreact. How you react can have a major impact on what happens to you and your club-mates with you. Your goal is to enjoy the ride and get home in one piece. If you panic, you won't be able to help yourself.

• Of course, it’s still partly social and we all want to chat as we ride, but stay vigilant!

Richard's video clip of the month...

MTB Skills
"Time to put away the TT bike, get out the knobblies and try to emulate Danny Hart’s downhill MTB skills. Apologies for the commentary, it’s not exactly Phil Liggett and Paul Sherwen."

http://www.pinkbike.com/video/216258/

http://www.cyclingnews.com/news/2011-reader-poll-hart-becomes-first-downhill-mtb-poll-winner

Richard Unwin

Friday Snippet

In case you missed this Radio5 Live interview with Dave Brailsford earlier in the month
http://news.bbc.co.uk/sport1/hi/cycling/15576351.stm
Talks about the Olympics and track test event and recent team performances ....

2012 Diary Date - local Sportive

Sportivephoto will run it's first Sportive next year on 1st April 2012 .

The event, run in conjunction with UK Cycling Events, will start and finish at the Hollycombe Steam Museum near Liphook and provide distance choices of 50 and 71 miles.

Routes will take in many of our area's best routes including the newly finished cycle path over the Devils' Punchbowl at Hindhead (maybe we won't need our own vehicle escort through there as we experienced on a recent thursday run)

An added bonus will be loads of free Sportivephoto picture downloads after the event.

Entries are already open on the event website which has more details http://www.southernspringclassic.co.uk

More group ride etiquette..

Has Sky's Michael Barry been reading own Ken Ruffell's posts?

http://michaelbarry.ca/2011/11/the-group-ride-2/

Quick Gorrick Crowthorne report

Ian Franklin reports from the latest Gorrick:

"Fine afternoon with damp but reasonably firm ground. Craig O'neill 4th and Mark taylor 10th in open men. Dave Creegan 4th and george Crouch 10th in sports Jo Munden First in Womens Expert, she never looked threatened finishing 9 mins clear!.
Both Dave C And Mark T said they found the tree roots difficult/unnerving.

There may be other Meudon riders hidden in the results!"

Ian

http://www.timelaps.co.uk/assets/uploads/EVENTREPORT.aspx?eventid=188CrowthorneWood13/11/2011#Open%20Male

Winter tire, tube and brake maintenance

Some tips and advice from Ian Franklin:

TYRES/TUBES
No one gets punctures deliberately but It's not much fun for everyone standing around in the cold or rain while it gets mended. With increased rain washing debris onto the road the risk of punctures increases. Take a little time to go round your tyres after each ride and dig out flints etc with a fine point. Sometimes a deep gash happens - Park tools do an emergency tyre boot - 3 for £5.00 - which gets you home and invariably saves scrapping the tyre. The boot is designed for MTB tyres but can be cut in half for a road tyre. Should you have a second flat on the ride self adhesive patches are now available which are quicker than the glue type.
Spare inner tubes. With deeper section rims becoming more common make sure the valve is long enough. A short (32mm) valve often doesn't allow you to connect a pump or CO2 cartidge correctly on a lot of rims. Carry a 60mm valved tube and you can cope with everything. If you are on a MTB check the valve type, you can get away with a presta valve on a schrader (car) valve rim but not the other way round.
You can repair tubes at home. But often there is a second hole which gets missed. Once repaired put it in a spare tyre/rim, pump it up and check it stays up for a couple of days. You then know you have a good spare.
CO2 cartridges are pricey but pump the tyre up to 100 psi plus in no time minimising hanging around............ but carry a small pump as back up

BRAKES
Blocks/Rims Inspect your rims and brake blocks regularly. Grit and aluminium gets embedded in the soft rubber and can destroy a rim quite quickly. Remove the wheels and using a fine point dig the foreign bodies out. Keep an eye on the rim braking surface, if it is starting to go hollow/convex ask your bike shop if it is safe to use. Thin rims get weak and increase the risk of the tyre pressure literally blowing the rim apart with disasterous consequences.
Calipers Without mudguards calipers receive a lot of road crap, grit, salt etc. Look carefully at the caliper and you will see it comprises three sections. Starting from the frame side, look carefully between the first and second sections. You may be able to see a thin washer, this carries about 10 pin head sized bearings. It's quite common for this to seize up. Push some rag under the brake, drop some oil on the washer and operate the brake a few times. This should help keep it working smoothly. Sometimes it's better to remove the wheel and push and pull the brakes in and out until they open up fully without any assistance.

Avoid Cycle Kingdom 50% sale

With VC Meudon members not overly concerned with style matters, they might want to think about avoiding Cycle Kingdom this week as it will probably be very busy with members of other more vain fashion obsessed clubs taking advantage of the 50% (!) off all new season Assoss and Castelli winter kit.

Chalk chase and track day coming soon....

Coming soon: the VC Meudon MTB Chalk Chase series…event 1: Sunday November 20th “Fast, Flat,Frensham”…Leave Seale Tea rooms 10.00, ….event 2 “Mr Wilsons Xmas special”…during the Xmas break, date to be confirmed.

New Year track session…the VC Meudon trackies are arranging a track session at an indoor track near you; suitable for all riders, rental bikes will be available…more details soon.

Winter break - sort your bikes out

Thought I'd kick off a bit of a series on bike maintenance for the winter lull and maybe spark a debate or two - please comment. What about our Specialized gurus Dr Nick and Dr Mark contributing a video or two?

Parking at Seale

Please note that there is now no parking available outside the Tea rooms at Seale, however Henry at WyndyMilla has arranged for parking facilities 100m along the road at the football field.

The reason for this is that we cyclists leave our cars there whilst we go off for our ride and customers to the Tea rooms and Craft Centre have nowhere to park. This is a reasonable request and we ask Meudoners to comply where possible.

Keith Brooks
01428 713986
07779 660851

Report from the (Ottershaw) lap board

Keith Brooks reports:
"After two of the three Ottershaw races complete the Meudon boys have 2 riders in the top 6…..last week 8 Meudons took to the start line and rode an extremely fast race based on three circuits around Ottershaw…..yours truly offered to help organiser Doug Collins and was pleased when I turned up at the HQ to be allocated the cushy lap board job along with fellow Vecchi, Andy Swanson. You’d think a couple of old racers with 132 yrs between us could handle that. Unfortunately it was on three circuits, we coped admirably with the first circuit, 6 laps of Staple Hill, and moved onto Kitsmead lane for another 6 laps; a bit of oldtimers confusion saw us standing there with what we thought one more to go when we saw the race in the distance not coming our way but moving back onto the final circuit; with a worried glance at each other we hurriedly picked up numbers, lap board, bell, chalk etc and legged it back down to Staple hill to resume our duties. Luckily this week it was just 18 laps of one circuit and with the help of technology, a pile of acorns, we were ok.

As for the racing both events have been fast with continuous attacks; race 1 saw a great ride by WyndyMillas Adam Cottrell who did a lot of the race off the front and then after being caught still comfortably won the sprint. This week Richard Prebble showed his roadmans skills when he attacked and got away on his own, turning into timetrial mode and staying away for a solo win.

As for the Meudons, they all looked very comfortable, were up with the attacks but missed the Prebble break and finished in the bunch. George is 5th overall and Gabriel 6th with just one more race to go next weekend.

Come along next week and support or ride, plenty of spaces on the line; 11.00 Ottershaw."

Keith Brooks
01428 713986
07779 660851

Cross season is underway!

Michael Guilford reports with the latest XC and cyclocross results, this weeks CX ride reminder and pre-house-purchase bike sale.

"A quick round up on the end of season results for Cross Country and shameful performance in first cyclocross race.

The last cross country race I entered for this season was the British MTB series final round, Newhnam Park Plymouth. Before this race I was ranked 13th nationally for sport, I needed to rank 15th or higher to move up into expert next year, so this race was a must do. I sort of realised I was ill on the day before the race, which isnt great. None-the-less, I felt fairly suited to the course hilly and technical, plenty of steep and off-camber bits. I cant say I overperformed but I was there for points. I rolled in at 5th place, and picked up the points to put me in 9th place nationally. Goal achieved.

Wessex League Round 3, War Memorial Park Basingstoke. The first 10 on the line were national level, so seeing as I started about 30th I could see this wasnt going to be smooth rolling. Time off proper training and illness has knocked my fitness back, so this hurt. I was struggling to pick up any sort of decent pace, and i have lost a lot of the acceleration I had at the end of last season. I am not sure where I finished but I think it was around 15th looking at the video.... more work to do. So help me out by joining the cyclocross training ride on thursday evening!!

Reminder, it'll be on the calendar soon. Cyclocross ride, Thursday evening, 6pm at the entrance to Ash ranges nearest the Health Centre. Fast pace a few times round a loop.

Finally, I have a huge pre-house buy, bike part sale. See http://singletrackworld.com/forum/topic/fs-cyclocross-road-and-xc-clearout & http://www.flickr.com/photos/68738852@N07/.

You are welcome to stop by and have a look at anything. In addition to that stuff I have 10 continental race innertubes 700c. £25 for the lot.

Thanks,

Michael"

White shorts.

The latest kit delivery has arrived with Craig at Cycle Kingdom - including the new (predominantly) white shorts for those who wanted a pair to go with their white tops.

Gabriel wins another nationals!

This time fastest in the LVRC nationals:

http://www.velouk.net/2011/10/11/results-lvrc-time-trial-championships/

Video - Catford Hill Climb

Nick Upshall competed in his first hill climb yesterday, taking part in the Catford Hill Classic.
A creditable performance against some top mountain goats, Nick was just pipped by a couple of local riders but was happy with his sub-3 minute performance.
(Nick features in the video at the 1:07 mark - notice the frenetic crowd as he roars past ..)

Large Ridley Triton frame for sale

For Sale, Ridley Triton aluminium frame and full carbon fork - uncut steerer. Size Large. Mudguard eyes and clearance. About four years old and in pretty decent condition. Metallic grey colour. £60.

I have many of the parts to build this bike eg bars, stem, seatpost, chainset and more. A deal to be done on all these. Give me a ring if interested. Jim Morris. 01428 713935.

1st Oct @ Hillingdon - prizes for 4ths, youths, women

Any of the VC Meudon 4th cats missing Dunsfold and looking for another opportunity to race might want to try the Redhill promotion 'Cycling Nuts" at Hillingdon on the 1st of October. There are also youth and a women's race.

http://www.britishcycling.org.uk/events/details/64732/Cycling-Nuts---an-afternoon-of-racing-at-Hillingdon

There's some good prizes on offer - here's the promoter's explanation!:

"Calling all cycling nuts….here’s your chance for glory

Everybody tells you that you’re Cycling Nuts and there’s nothing wrong with that.

But as Cycling Nuts go, where are you on the nutty ladder? Are you just mildly nuts or do you stand on the highest rung, being graded as completely nuts?

Well here’s a good way to find out because now you and your club can once again be officially certified as the biggest load of Cycling Nuts out there.

There are prizes worth a total of £300….so do please come and race.


Can you spell out the details?

Well, yes. On Saturday 1 October there will be youth races at Hillingdon cycle circuit starting at 1.15pm. In the three youngest age groups, every rider will collect points and the club with the most points wins the title of “the biggest load of Cycling Nuts”.

How will the points system work?

Well, if there are 20 riders are in your age category, for example, then the winner gets 20 points while the second-placed finisher gets 19 points and so on all the way down to the one point earned by the rider finishing in 20th place. That means everyone counts. You all pick up points for your club.

If there were 15 riders in the next age category, say, then the points on offer would range from 15 down to 1.

So the more riders we come with, the better our chances?

Exactly.

In all, there will be prize money of £300 for us, but how is it split out?

The £300 is split between £220 for the age groups Under 12, Under 10 and Under 8 leaving the £80 balance for the riders competing in the Under 16 and Under 14 age groups.

OK. How will the £220 be split?

The top three clubs will share in the total:

first: £150
second: £40
third: £30


What is there for the two older categories: U14 and U16?

In the past we found that it was chaotic running all the five age groups at once. We found that splitting riders into groups and running two races made life easier for Steve May and his team of eagle-eyed judges who have to do the totting up.

In the three youngest categories, riders tend to split and finish individually, so that’s not bad to judge.

However the U14 and U16 get tactical and often finish in a packs and that’s why Steve has asked for them to be allocated to different races, so we have U14 in the first race and U16 in the following event…please note they are not both in the second race!!

What do they stand to collect?

A total of £80, split between four individual winners:

winner under-14 boy £20
winner under-14 girl £20
winner under-16 boy £20
winner under-16 girl £20"

Gabriel wins nationals!

Outstanding result from Gabriel Martinez in the British Cycling/CTT national time trial championships at the weekend in Sawtry, Cambridgeshire. While Sky's Alex Dowsett won the main event there were also races for women, juniors, u23s, and over 130 masters riders competing in different age group categories.

Gabriel powered home in 45:22 to win by eleven seconds in front of Jon Simpkins of Drag2zero in the masters C age group.

Centrefold of the month

Mr September is Derek George. This photo was taken by Martin Hulbert in Petersfield "after the Yately boys had finished with him".

Our man at Goodwood reports....

Goodwood commissaire Keith Brooks reports:

"Lured out by sunshine a number of Meudoners rode the Surrey League Goodwood races on Sunday…..in the fourths Tom Hicks looked very comfortable and put in a few hard bursts before finishing in the bunch just behind Luke Harris riding his first ever race and having no problems at all. Luke said he “bloody loved it”.

In the 3rds there were 7 from the Meudon; it was a pretty negative affair with a few half hearted attacks until three guys (all vets!!) got away with a couple of laps to go and held off the bunch by a handful of seconds at the end. I think we need to get our “team caps” on for next week and try to enliven the race and get our strong riders away instead of waiting for the bunch sprint lottery. We need some more riders to help, there must be loads of thirds in the club who would be capable of winning next week.

In the E12 event Paul Pickup went from the gun and that set the tone of the race which was flat out…a small field of less than 30 it soon broke up into two groups with the strongest in the front and it seemed all over but the bunch of just about 12 riders really got themselves organized and it regrouped. Didn’t last long and they were off again with a group which could have left from the shop on a Sunday morning club run consisting of Paul, Anders, Jez, Dave C, and Roger went again. Roger’s lack of racing this year took its toll and just when it looked like it was coming together he dropped back to a chasing group only to see his mates take off again. Come to think about it, just like a Sunday clubrun. They stayed away and Mr Hoy got his win number 18 of the year just in front of the Cycle Kingdom duo. If only the 3rds race was as active as that, real racing and a pleasure to be in the following car.

Thanks to Jamie and the Corley team for organsing the days racing…Jamie, if you ever need some helpers I know a good club!

Next week there is more at Goodwood, 4ths @ 9.30, Ladies 9.31, 3rds @ 11.00 and E12 at 12.45.Full details on the SL website. If you are preparing for La Picard or the Meudon race on the 11th then its a good opportunity to get some fast safe miles in and earn valuable Surrey League points for the club."

Like gadgets? Want to be on the telly?

Bullseye Productions are currently looking for people to take part in a brand new SKY1 HD Series all about technology & gadgets. The show will feature a team of gadget experts, ready to address every day people’s technology based problems, queries and desires.

For one of our episodes we’re specifically looking for a group of cyclists (3-4) to help us test out some of the latest cycling related tech on the market. There will be two days filming involved one early September and another during September or October. It will be great fun, so please get in contact ASAP!

If you want to hear more about the show and to be sent an application form, please email Matt Tiller at - gadgets@bullseyetv.co.uk - with CYCLING TECH in the subject. Remember to include your names and numbers.

VC Meudon Surrey League road races 11/9 details

VC Meudon Surrey League Promotion: 11/09/11, Preston Candover

Each race would ideally have around 10 Marshalls, plus assistance with line judges, catering and those in safety cars, so please commit to assisting with at least one race and have a bash at racing the other! Please let me know A.S.A.P @ mikel142@btinternet.com

Entries:
Entries via the Surrey League website – www.surreyleague.co.uk

HQ:
Preston Candover Village Hall,
Old Basingstoke Road,
Preston Candover,
Basingstoke,
Hampshire,
RG25 2EE

Races:
09.30: Cat 3, (Regional B), 50 miles
13:30: E/1/2/3, (National B), 75 miles

Lap Length: 9.7 miles (rolling)
Finish (Blue Marker): On Berrydown Lane just before left turn onto Green Lane (slight drag, flat run-in)

(Blue marker at bottom of map): HQ, Preston Candover Village Hall

Neutralised from the HQ, turn right onto Berrydown Lane; continue for 1.7 miles until left turn onto Green Lane (climb, long but shallow gradient and good surface) towards Ellisfield; continue onto Northgate Lane towards Hackwood Lane ( CAUTION on downhill and following lane) then Church Lane to t-junction at Cliddesden; turn left onto B3046 up climb (steep, but short...ish) and then downhill for 2.5 miles to Axford; left turn back onto Berrydown Lane to complete lap.


View VC Meudon Surrey League - Preston Candover in a larger map

Good coaching opportunity with Pickup

Top local rider Paul Pickup is setting up a coaching business and this is your opportunity to get some quality guidance at a preferential rate while he's setting up - VCM juniors can get some training for free:

"Calling all cyclists – would you benefit from some cycling coaching? Do you know anyone that could do with some bespoke Personal Fitness Training?
Following a lifetime interest in cycling and general sports, I have recently set up my own Personal Training and Coaching business, focusing on all levels of fitness and abilities, and am able to offer my services to VC Meudon and Surrey League members and their friends and family at a discount for a limited period.
Coupled with over 15 years racing experience, including all disciplines of the sport from Mountain Biking to International stage races, I also have a Diploma in Personal Training, am a qualified British Cycling Coach and a member of the Register for Exercise Professionals.
Having won several National races and time trials and the overall Surrey League season-long competition 5 times, I have a wealth of competitive level cycling experience which has enabled me to coach more junior members of cycling teams, along with friends and school groups. On the Personal Training front, I have experience in both gym-based and outdoor training.
I am happy to advise or coach anyone, regardless of discipline or ability and can offer bespoke training packages suited to your particular needs and fitness/performance goals.
So, if you want help trying to improve your PB in a time trial, move up a category in your road racing or just want some training or racing advice whilst heading out for a ride please get in touch.
Please contact me on 07734 111747 or pug50@hotmail.com and I will be happy to talk through the options with you."

4ths don't score @ Dunsfold shocka! Quick report.

Ian reports:
Only Tom Hicks and Colin Stevens for this event. Tom getting in a couple of breaks which got reeled in and Colin trying to get away but without success. Another bunch Sprint with Colin and Tom 11th and 16th.


Ian Franklin
07973 828408

LVRC vets race at Dunsfold report

Ian reports from 7th August:

With 3 of the 8 laps remaining in the 51 mile race Geoff Wiles (National Pro road champion 1976) broke away with our Keith Brooks for company. By the time I saw them with one lap to go they had a lead of some 20-30 seconds, with Dave Williams and Ray Palin trying to bridge the gap. Come the finish and two riders crested the hill, the white and mauve jersey of Wiles in front of Keith's Vecchi jersey and that was how it remained at the finish line. Bling ride Keith.
Anyone want to know more about Geoff Wiles go to http://en.m.wikipedia.org/wiki?search=geoff+wiles

Ian Franklin
07973 828408

Handy new bike box hire website

For those of you who prefer something more sturdy than an old Specialized box and don't want to spend a million pounds on a new Sci Con, a friend of member Grant Pretorius has set up a new bike box hire service based in Churt:

http://www.bicycleboxhire.co.uk/Welcome.html

Bronze for Martin at nationals

After months off the bike through injury, consistent performer Martin "twenty hours a week" Hulbert proved he's back on top form with a great ride in the British Cycling national championships for the F cat vets. There's a particularly fetching picture of Martin in an old vest on the podium at the bottom of the velouk report:

Report

3rd for the 4ths at Dunsfold

Ian Franklin reports:

"Only Colin Stevens lined up for this race, number 10 of 12. His recent performances have been somewhat disappointing but sensible riding produced a fine third place in the sprint. With two races left he only needs a seventh place (or better) to get his 3rd cat. He's still riding his compact chainset from London - Paris - Time for the 53 to be re fitted!"

An Evening At The Races

A sunny evening at Goodwood, a proper handicap Glyn sez, so off go the 4th/ladies and we wait what seems like ages to go. Eventually were off and amazingly for a large group of 3rds it gets organized and all of us, about 30 riders, are going through and off; the commissaire comes up on the Moto and asks if I’m OK as he’s never seen me on the front before!.

The talk is that we’ll stay away if we keep this up and we catch the 4ths after just a couple of laps, but then its chaos and the organisation withers. A lap of hesitation and we are caught by the scratch group.. I sit on Jason’s wheel as they go straight past and to the front but a lack of confidence and concentration sees me at the back just as a group of 5 clip off. I see “Cav” Allen “ you know I’ve hardly touched my bike since Cutmill” going across, and am convinced Dean was with them as he had a couple of hundred metres on the bunch as we got caught. “Cav” starts to come back but another small group go across and he manages to go with them and reach the break which then includes all the stars like Chaingang Dave, Killer Costello, Toby, Jay, Chris Mac, and one of the Yates family.

Well it seems like it’s over but surprisingly the bunch actually keep going hard and keeps the break in sight. “The Prince” has a word with Agisko’s Holland –Leader and they make an unsuccessful attempt to get across; Dean, James Graham, Tom and Josh keep plugging away and at 3 laps to go the gap is down to about 20secs but the break realize and speed up.

So last lap and after Dave has towed the break around a figure in plain kit (I forgot me club kit) zooms past and takes the sprint…another impressive win for Mr Allen. He was almost as quick packing his bike in the car and leaving the premises as the “where did he come from” questions were being asked.

Only three more Goodwoods left but if you want some fast miles its worth the £15.00.

KB

Listen to Freddie ...

It's that time of year when some people's thoughts turn to long summer evenings and villas in the South of France, when that extra glass of New Zealand Sauvignon Blanc looks far too tempting or when perhaps a round of golf doesn't seem such a bad thing after all.

But wait before you stray away from the things that matter ....

VC Meudon currently lies 5th overall in the Surrey League, largely thanks to our new batch of crack 4th Cats who have been racking up the points at Dunsfold on a friday evening and are now mainly 4th Cats no more + of course stalwarts like Ken "the prince" Prince for plugging away at Goodwood to score on a weekly basis and Mark "Brems" Bremner for his regular handicap exploits.

The Surrey League website now has "Enter On Line" buttons for most of this season's remaining events and we need a concerted push to pull the club back into its usual Top3 position.

As Winston Churchill once said - no that won't work ...

As Freddie Mercury once said "Get On Your Bikes And Ride!" ......

Tippety top Pinarello for sale

"Decided to sell my P&J. Frame is pretty much as you would expect and in immaculate condition. 54cm, 53.5cm top tube c-c 14.5cm head tube and 6 cm from top of head tube to top of forks. For those that have not seen the bike it is very different from anything else out there. The frame is designed for Di2 components only this frame would retail for approx £4k new looking for offers around £2500. Call Warren anytime on 07979 082057"

4ths back to winning ways

Ian Franklin reports:

"Frustrated by last weeks race where he was impeded in the sprint, Simon Laws made sure it wasn't repeated. From the finish line I saw a brave (foolhardy?) rider attack some 350-400 metres out on the opposite side of the track. As the figure came closer a Meudon jersey came into focus and Simon flashed over the line some 6 or 7 lengths clear of the bunch. A convincing win.
Dan Smith finished in the bunch while Colin Stevens DNF still feeling the effects of his London Paris ride.
Simon's now gained his 3 cat licence - no half measures with19 points.
No oldtimers this week: Hopefully yours truly and Tom Hicks will ride next week."

Race 14 Eelmoor Cycle Kingdom Circuits

Results from the final event (Race 14) of the Cycle Kingdom Eelmoor Circuit Series held 20th July.

Again thanks to everyone who helped out during the series and to Craig Peter of Cycle Kingdom of course for orchestrating the whole thing.

Also some great photographs of the evening from Antony Edmonds here
http://aephotos.co.uk/cyclekingdom2011-14


YOUTH RACES
1 - Jake Epps - VC Meudon - E Boys
2 - Elliot Moreve - Slipstreamers - E Boys
3 - Ben Coppola - VC Meudon - E Boys

1 - Joe McGuinness - H S S - D Boys
2 - Jay Allen - P Park Velo - D Boys
3 - Dom Day - VC Meudon - D Boys

1 - Leaan Woods - Charlotteville - C Girls

1 - Charles Page - H S S - C boys
2 - Louis Rose- Davis - Slipstreamers - C boys
3 - Lewis Haller - Charlotteville - C boys

1 - Anna-Marie Hughes - Slipstreamers B Girls

1 - Cormac Scully-King - V.C.Meudon - B Boys
2 - Kev Houlett - P.Park Velo - B Boys
3 - Kieran Woods - Charlotteville - B


1 - Katie Metalli - BCDS - A Girls

1 - Ross king - Velo Schils Interbike - A boys
2 - Jake Norman - Wyndymilla - A boys
3 - Jason Brown - P.Park Velo - A boys


E12 RACE
1 - Lee Smith - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
2 - Justin Hoy - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
3 - Paul Pickup - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1
4 - Jody Crawford - Hargroves / Specialized - E
5 - Allan Ridler - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1
6 - Jamie Newall - Team Corley Cycles - 2
7 - Robert McCarthy - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1
8 - Richard Mardle - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
9 - David Creeggan - VC Meudon - 1
10 - Ian Paine - London Dynamo - 1
11 - George Goci - Sigma Sport - 2
12 - Chris Wood - Wyndymilla - 2
13 - Stuart Spies - London Dynamo - 2
14 - Adrian Goatley - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - 2V
15 - Tim Allen - Cyclesport - 2


34 RACE
1 - George Withers - Palmer Park Velo - YA
2 - George Crouch-Giorgios - VC Meudon - 3
3 - Joe Crolla - Palmer Park Velo - YA
4 - Brian Macpherson - VC Meudon - 3
5 - Cam Swarbrick - AW Cycles - 3J
6 - Harry Strudley - AW Cycles - 3J
7 - Jon Harris - CCB - 3
8 - Dylan Kenneway - London Dynamo - 3
9 - Ben Marks - Cycle Works.Co.Uk - 3
10 - Frazier Carr - AW Cycles - 3J

Eelmoor Circuits Tonight

Tonight (Wednesday 20th July) sees the final Eelmoor circuit races of this season.

Normal schedule with Youths races starting at 6:30 followed by E12 and 34 races at 7pm

These are not part of the overall series which finished last week - results posted earlier.

Also tonight, prize presentations for the Overall Series will be made following the races + some food and drink etc to help the celebrations

Final Overall - Eelmoor Cycle Kingdom Circuit Series 2011

Here are the final overall standings for the Eelmoor Cycle Kingdom Circuit Series - A rider's best 9 results counted towards their total for the series.

E12 RANKINGS

Postion - Name - Club - Cat - Position
1 - Justin Hoy - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E - 124
2 - John Wager - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E - 112
3 - Tim Elverson - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E - 109
4 - Richard Mardle - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team E - 95
5 - Anders Christensen - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - E - 95
6 - David Creeggan - VC Meudon - 1 - 90
7 - Robert McCarthy - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1 - 85
8 - Allan Ridler - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1 - 83
9 - Lee Smith - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E - 82
10 - Paul Pickup - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1 - 69
11 - Daniel Duguid - Sigma Sport Specialized - 1 - 68
12 - Pete Wager - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - 1 - 61
13 - Jamie Newall - Corley Cycles - 2 - 47
14 - Lewis Atkins - Twenty 3C Orbea - E - 34
15 - Stephen Bradbuny - AWCycles - 2 - 28
16 - Chris Snook - Banjo Cycles.Com - 2 - 22
17 - Tom Smith - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - 1 - 22
18 - Neil Cooper - AW Cycle.co.uk - 1 - 20
19 - Robert King - AW Cycles co.uk - 1 - 18
20 - Dante Carpentar - Asfra RC - 1J - 17
21 - James Bracey - VC Meudon - 2 - 17
22 - Adrian Goatey - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - 2V - 15
23 - Henry Furniss - Wyndymilla - E - 15
24 - Darren Moore - Pendragon Le Col Colnago - 2 - 12
25 - Andy Hargroves - Hargroves / Specialized - 1 - 11
26 - Richard Unwin - VC Meudon - 2 - 11
26 - George Goci - Sigma Sport Specialized - 2 - 10
27 - Darren Parker - Python RT 2 - 9
28 - Jake Martin - Pendagen Lecol Colnage - 1 - 9
29 - Marcel Six - Twenty 3C Orbea - E - 8
30 - Joe Harris - Reading CC - 2 - 8
31 - Jody Crawford - Hargroves / Spezcialed - E - 7
32 - Angus Tobin - Bathhurst CC - 1 - 7
33 - Alex Pantcheles - Twichenham C C - 2J - 6
34 - Dan Gilloy - Wyndymilla - 2 - 6
35 - Martin Harris - Banjo Cycles.Com - 2 - 5
36 - Ross Muir - Sigma Sport - 2 - 5
37 - Rory Townsend - Prestige VC - A - 4
38 - Alex Peterson - AW Cycles co.uk - 1 - 4
39 - John Lewis - Charlotteville CC - 2V - 3
40 - Dave Larcombe - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 2V - 2
41 - Phil Reynolds - VC St Raphael - 2 - 2
42 - Martin Smith - Primal Europe - EV - 2
43 - Matt Gittings - AW Cycles co.uk - 2 - 2
44 - Wouter Sybrandy - Sigma Sport Specialized - E - 2
45 - Martin Dawkins - Team Quest - 2 - 1
46 - Max Webber - VC St Raphael - 2 - 1
47 - Adam Cotterell - Wyndymilla - 2 - 1
48 - Jamie Caldwell - St Ives - 2 - 1



34 RANKINGS
Postion - Name - Club - Cat - Position
1 - Mike Laborero - Cycle Works.Co.Uk - 3 - 44
2 - Gavin Morton - Charlotteville CC - 3 - 42
3 - Richard Unwin - VC Meudon - 3 - 42
4 - Ben Marks - Cycle Works.Co.uk - 3 - 41
5 - Joseph Laborero - Cycle Works.Co.uk - 3 - 34
6 - Nick Allen - VC Meudon - 3 - 28
7 - Rory Townsend - Prestige Velo - YA - 28
8 - Jon Harris - CCB - 3 - 28
9 - Chris Boote - Zappis CC - 3 - 23
10 - Brain Macpherson - VC Meudon - 3 - 23
11 - George Withers - Palmer Park Velo - YA - 21
12 - Andrew McCombe - CCB - 3 - 21
13 - Rudie Marais - Archer - 3 - 20
14 - Cam Swarbrick - AW Cycles - 3J - 20
15 - Dan Maslin - Prestige Velo - YA - 19
16 - Joe Crolla - Palmer Park Velo - YA - 19
17 - Mark Bremner - VC Meudon - 3V - 19
18 - Ross Muir - LA Fuga-Sigma - 3 - 18
19 - George Crouch-Giorgios - VC Meudon - 3 - 18
20 - Leigh-Roy Macfarlane - Cycleworks.co.uk - 3 - 14
21 - Craig O'Neil - VC Meudon - 3 - 13
22 - Kevin O'Neill - VC Meudon - 4 - 11
23 - Jared Spier - LA Fuga-Sigma - 3 - 10
24 - Bruce Karsten - Prestige Velo - 3 - 10
24 - Phill Bowley - Owens Cycles - 3 - 10
25 - Dave Faulkener - Charlotteville CC - 3 - 9
26 - Declan Higgins - Twickenham CC - 3J - 9
27 - David Barnaurice - Felt Colbornes - 3 - 9
28 - Ross King - Velo Schils - YA - 9
29 - Terry Morgan - VC Meudon - 3V - 8
30 - Donal Linehan - Newbury RC - 3 - 8
31 - Karl Norfolk - Pedalon.co.uk - 3 - 8
32 - Nils Gustafsson - Inversert/Cyclaim - 3 - 8
33 - Craig McLean - London Dynamo - 3 - 7
34 - Joe Mason - Uni Bham - 3 - 5
35 - Tristan Matoli - Charlotteville CC - 3 - 5
36 - Bernie Charlick - CCB - 3 - 4
37 - Nick Kirke - Cycle Works.Co.Uk - 4 - 4
38 - Scott Oatridge - CC Basingstoke - 3 - 4
39 - Ian Black - Norwood Paragon - 3 - 4
40 - David Farmer - Cycle Works.Co.uk - 3 - 4
41 - Frazier Carr - AW Cycles - 3J - 3
42 - Steve Smith - Python - 3 - 3
43 - Henry Peacock - Team Zappis - 3 - 3
44 - Matt Wakeford - Wyndymilla - 3 - 3
45 - Andy Keynes - VC Meudon - 4 - 3
46 - John Rawnslel - Cardiff Jif - 3 - 3
47 - Rob Hunter - East Street Cycles - 4 - 3
48 - Harry Stiudley - AW Cycles - 3J - 2
49 - Ryan Keynes - 1st Gear Cycles - 4 - 2
50 - Mark Lawn - Inverse RT/Cyclaim - 3 - 2
51 - Louis Mashani - Prestige Velo - YA - 2
52 - Greg Barber - Charlotteville CC - 3 - 1
53 - Stuart Morton - Hargroves Cycles - 3 - 1
54 - Rich Pyne - Army Cycling Union - 4 - 1
55 - Mark Taylor - VC Meudon - 4 - 1
56 - Natalie Ceswick - Abus Nutrixxion - 1W - 1


YOUTH RANKINGS
POSTION - NAME - CLUB - CAT - TOTAL
1 - Jake Epps - VC Meudon - E Boys - 20
2 - Elliot Moreve - Slipstreamers - E Boys - 13
3 - Ben Coppola - VC Meudon - E Boys - 13
4 - William Colegate - Palmer Park Velo - E Boys - 10
5 - Kye Lewis - Slipstreamers - E Boys - 3

1 - Joe McGuinness - H S S - D Boys - 39
2 - Jay Allen - Palmer Park Velo - D Boys - 26
3 - Zac Elverson - Felt Racing - D Boys - 5
4 - Jonathan Heal - D Boys - 1

1 - Lucy Colegate - P.Park Velo - C Girls - 18
2 - Liberty Hards - VC Meudon - C Girls - 3
3 - Ann Lineham - P.Park Velo - C Girls - 2

1 - Charles Page - H S S - C boys - 12
2 - Damon King - Palmer Park Velo - C boys - 9
3 - Danny Griffith - Palmer Park Velo - C boys - 7
4 - Thamana Nel - Velocity - C boys - 4
5 - Niall Dawkins - H S S - C boys - 3
6 - Joss Banfield - P/M - C boys - 2

1 - Toni Griffiths - Palmer Park Velo - B Girls - 8
2 - Anna-Mark Hughes - H S S - B Girls - 6
3 - Rachel Ansell - Palmer Park Velo - B - Girls 3

1 - Cormac Scully-King - VC Meudon - B Boys - 34
2 - Sam Oliver - Palmer Park Velo - B Boys - 16
3 - Henry Dawson - H S S - B Boys - 3
4 - Joseph Linehan - Palmer Park Velo - B Boys - 2
5 - George Moore - I-Team - B Boys - 2
6 - William Hopkins - PM - B Boys - 2
7 - Kiv Noaliti - Palmer Park Velo - B Boys - 1

1 - Katie Metalli - BCDS - A Girls - 9

1 - Jake Norman - Wyndymilla - A Boys - 18
2 - Joe Crolla - Palmer Park Velo - A Boys - 9
3 - Jason Brown - Palmer Park Velo - A Boys - 8
4 - Fred Pritchard - Charlotteville - A boys - 7
5 - Will Davidson - VC Meudon - A Boys - 6
6 - Josh Ansell - Palmer Park Velo - A Boys - 6
7 - Louis Mashani - Palmer Park Velo - A Boys - 5
8 - Ross King - Velo Schils Interbike - A boys - 5
9 - Jamie Fry - CCB - A boys - 5
10 - Ricard Allen - Wyndymilla - A boys - 4
11 - Luke Bindy - VCJ - A boys - 2
12 - Matt Davies - Palmer Park Velo - A boys - 2

International man of mystery scores in RR debut

He's got two different versions of his real name, emails as "Bernerd Matthews" and has a variety of different haircuts. The Surrey League lists him as George ???????. You may know him as George Crouch. Here's his report from Kirdford:

"For my first ever road race there were dark clouds and a big turn out. Meudon members Dean Corney, Nathan Jackson, Craig Wilson and Michael Lancaster were present.
Half way through the rain started but I didnt mind as there were no dangerous corners on the course and I could see alot of riders werent enjoying it. A meeting with a horse caused a bit of a disruption and a brief break occured but was caught. Dean Corney was active at the front of the peloton for most of the race and attempted a early sprint/break but was caught on the uphill finish. Me, feeling a bit nervous with the rain, cars and speed made sure I was near the front on the lead up to the sprint and then gave all I had, grunting, snarling and spitting but couldnt quite catch the winner. 2nd place got me 12 points, making me 1 point away from 2nd cat, woohoo! George."

Good day @ Derek Witt Memorial RR

Keith reports:

"Derek was a prolific winner of races in the 60s/70s including the Perfs in
1973, always in an attacking style, who was tragically run down and killed
by an unlicensed,uninsured motorist in 2008 on the Itchen bridge in
Southampton.

Yesterdays race promoted in his memory by his old club GS Europa was held on
the tough Milburys circuit nr Winchester in typical July weather of grey
clouds, cold wind and pouring rain although it was a bright ending for the
CiclistiVecchi/Meudon/CycleKingdom toughies who braved the elements.

In the A/B race Tim Costello doing his Movistar Ivan Guttierez impersonation
rode away on his own to win by over a minute with Larry Larcombe 4th, Craig
Peter 5th, Gianluca 6th and Keith Jarrett 9th.

In the C/D event Rob Cranstone was 6th and in the Eplus age group I was 3rd.

Next week is the Newbury LVRC, good circuit, still places available, see the
LVRC website."

2nd hand club kit market.

White short sleeve club jersey. Medium size 4 worn for 20 minutes only and washed once. Reason for sale: too big. Contact Ian Franklin (07973 828408) or ianfranklin@ntlworld.com

L'etape. It's not a race but....

This year there have been not one but two etapes. And apparently this weekend's was a bit harder than normal.

VCM's sportive correspondent Keith Brooks reports:

"If you thought Sunday's weather was bad then take a look at the Etape du Tour to St Flour….only 1900 finished ( 6000 entries) due to horrendous weather and tales of people stranded in villages and on climbs…they were sending in a fleet of buses to collect them….However didn’t seem to worry Garbriel who battled through in 7.29.00 to come 40th overall!!!! That’s after getting in the top 300 last week on acte 1 up to Alpe d’huez….Wouter Sybrandy was 4th today.

And I thought a shower on a small climb in a chipper in Hampshire was grim."

http://www.cyclingweekly.co.uk/news/latest/529414/weather-wreaks-havoc-at-etape-du-tour.html

Dunsfold 4ths report

Ian Franklin reports from a windswept circuit somewhere south of Godalming:

"Another windy evening with Tom Hicks, Simon Laws and Nick Upshall. Unfortunately Nick's computer mount came loose forcing an early exit. Tom and Simon made several appearances at the front but there were too few willing to make a race of it so it was down to another bunch sprint where Simon took 9th with Tom in the bunch.
There are four more events left so if you are a 4th cat and need some points get down to Dunsfold."

Olympic Test Event tickets

Link courtesy of Ian:

http://tinyurl.com/6axqjcw

Race 13 Eelmoor Cycle Kingdom Circuits

Results from Race 13 of the Cycle Kingdom Eelmoor Circuit Series
held 13th July.

E12 RACE
1 - John Wager - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
2 - Justin Hoy - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
3 - David Creeggan - VC Meudon - 1
4 - Robert McCarthy - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1
5 - Allan Ridler - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1
6 - Richard Mardle - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
7 - Anders Christensen - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - E
8 - Daniel Duguid - Sigma Sport Specialized - 1
9 - Jody Crawford - Hargroves / Specialized - E
10 - George Goci - Sigma Sport Specialized - 2
11 - Adrian Goatley - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - 2V
12 - James Bracey - VC Meudon - 2
13 - Richard Unwin - VC Meudon - 2
14 - Henry Furniss - Wyndymilla - E
15 - Joe Harris - Reading CC - 2



34 RACE
1 - Rudie Marais - Archer - 3
2 - George Crouch-Giorgios - VC Meudon - 3
3 - Mike Laborero - Cycle Works.co.uk - 3
4 - Craig O'Neil - VC Meudon - 3
5 - Ben Marks - Cycle Works.co.uk - 3
6 - Joe Mason - Uni Bham - 3
7 - Mark Bremner - VC Meudon - 3V
8 - Dave Faulkener - Charlotteville CC - 3
9 - Harry Stiudley - AW Cycles - 3J
10 - Cam Swarbrick - AW Cycles - 3J


YOUTH RACES
1 - Elliot Moreve - Slipstreamers - E Boys
2 - Ben Coppola - V.C.Meudon - E Boys

1 - Joe McGuinness - H S S - D Boys
2 - Jay Allen - P.Park Velo - D Boys

1 - Charles Page - H S S - C boys
2 - Thamana Nel - Velocity - C boys
3 - Joss Banfield - P/M - C boys

1 - Henry Dawson - H S S - B Boys
2 - Cormac Scully-King - VC Meudon - B Boys
3 - Kiv Noaliti - P.Park Velo - B Boys

1 - Anna-Marie Hughes - Slipstreamers - B Girls

1 - Jake Norman - Wyndymilla - A boys
2 - Luke Bindy - VCJ - A boys
3 - Fred Pritchard - Charlotteville CC - A boys

Michael romps to solo victory

Ian Franklin reports back for the first time it didn't finish in a bunch gallop:

"VC Meudon 4th cats at Dunsfold
MUDPLUGGER WINS

A windy evening took it's toll at Dunsfold but it was dry. 39 riders lined up and on lap two 12 riders including 4 Meudons opened up a small gap with Tom Hicks the last to make it across.
Much as I wanted to get up there I wasn't going to jeopardise their chances by helping any of the 27 strong bunch to get across so I sat on everything. By lap four the break had a commanding lead and I was surprised to see my group of 27 reduced to 12.
I was hopeful that with 4 Meudons up front we could pull something out of the bag. And so the guys did: With two laps to go Michael Guilford soloed off the front never to be caught. William Lane took the sprint for second with Simon Laws fifth. Unfortunately Tom Hicks's saddle came loose and he had to retire.
In my group of eight scrapping for twelfth place I came thirteenth or fourteenth. Phil Masters also rode but was lapped. Colin Stevens DNF Dan Smith, where were you?
39 starters - 19-20 finishers
Michael and Will have both got their 3rd cat now and Simon only needs one more point.
The racing is of much better quality than last year when I had four or five 6th places. I can't get anywhere near that this year.

Ian Franklin"

Here's Michael's report:

"3rd Cat finally wooh!

My one and only experience of Dunsfold....

A bit of blowey course, a small bunch and a bit of a chill in the air. The riding was smooth and gentle for most of the race, with a portion of the bunch disappearing early on. With a small bunch of 20 or so most people were doing a turn on the front, I got told off for speeding up on my turn (tut tut!). so I did my best to sit at the back and look at planes for most of the race. Two laps two go, time for the break. I got a reasonable distance and just about managed to stick it out to the end, by kidding myself i was riding uphill.

Again, an allround success for The Meudon at Dunsfold with quite a few in the top 10."

Michael then followed that up with a bit of mountainbiking:


"Southern XC Series Rd 4.

Havent got much to say about the race today. Other than it was pretty confusing. For the whole race I had no idea where I was within the Sport field, except when i clipped my bars on a tree landing me in last place. The course was mostly singletrack but not that windey, I need to miraculously stop making stupid mistakes before next week.

I rolled in on the third lap and couldnt work out whether I had finished or where i had placed, as no one else was around. I didnt know I had won untill called up to the podium. Still more improvement needed to win the nationals."

Impressive in disaster - Nat TTT champs

Things didn't go exactly according to plan in the National Team Team Trial championships for the team representing VCM last week. First off spectators reported Justin Hoy having 'something wrong with his leg', always a handicap in a cycling based event. After 16 miles - with Justin packing - it was down to just Alan Ridler and Gabriel Martinez to soldier on.

Next problem was a malfunctioning gear cable leaving Gabriel stuck in the big ring and small cog at the back - rumoured to to be in this case 56 x 11. Something of a problem on a downhill course never mind a rolling one. This left Gabriel having to sit behind Alan for the last 10 miles. And they still recorded the 7th fastest time!

Picture of Gabriel leading Credit Agricole in the 2001 Tour courtesy of Ken Ruffel.

Glenn on track - anyone else?

Last week Pip Taylor paced Glenn Duffy to a win in the B grade derny race at Reading Track League. He qualified 2nd in his heat and won the 10 lap 6 up final.

If you'd like to know anything about riding the track or are ready to give it a go then get in touch with Pip directly or email us and we'll pass it on.

Guildford TCR Photos

A selection of photos from last night's racing in Guildford. Well done Charlotteville CC and all helpers.

Stephen reports from the Farnham Cycle ride

Stephen King reports from the Farnham charity bike ride at the weekend:

"Flying the flag in the Farnham Cycle ride 3rd July

VC Meudon were well represented in this local 25 or 50 mile event. Standing on the start line there were 10 club members in the “Elite” pen which shows great support for local events. The announcer said that there were 500+ entrants which is quite an impressive turnout. It was a sunny day and perfect for this type of event.

OK its not a race but when the peloton set off up Crondall lane I had my doubts with VC Meudon leading the charge. I opted for the 25 mile circuit along with Cormac who by the time we got to the top of the first hill he had disappeared over the horizon !

Most of the 50 milers turned off just before Crondall and things quietened down but did not slow down.


The route was very well signposted and marshalled and there were numerous places where water and food were available….not that I had any time to delay. I suspect they were set up for the many cyclists that were going to make a day of it.

The initial speed took its toll with me and I was pleased to see the Farnham sign at the end. As I crossed the finish line in about 1:30 the marshal announced that I was the 9th person to finish. Cormac completed in 1:20 as the 3rd person home. I am not sure where other VC Meudon riders finished but I am sure they enjoyed the event. Stephen King"

This Week - Eelmoor/No - Guildford/Yes

Just a quick reminder that there is no racing at Eelmoor this week (6th July 2011) - Everyone's going to Guildford on Wednesday evening for the annual Guildford Town Centre Races organised by Charlotteville CC.

To keep you Eelmoor junkies content for a few days here's great set of photos from the racing on 22nd June provided by Guy Swarbrick. (Thanks Guy)

http://www.flickr.com/photos/swarbrick/sets/72157627023330038/with/5860786329/

LVRC podium pic - caption competition

First entry from Ken R: "Craig's happy, but the judge is in tears - he thinks Craig should have won!"

4ths @ Dunsfold report

"A warm evening tempted me to ride along with recent new member Tom Hicks (another 60 year old vet) and Colin Stevens.
Dan Smith and Will Laws couldn't make it this week. We had a stab at breaks with other riders but they all came to nought. Ian and Tom 17th and 18th from 25 finishers. Colin with his London Paris still in his legs dnf."

Ian Franklin

Mid-week vets race - 26th July

Old and workshy? This is the race for you. Very enjoyable last year.

TUESDAY 26th JULY- REGION 9 SHARPE4PROSTATE CHARITY RR 11.30am, Newdigate HQ RH5 5DX, Undulating, ABC 54m, DEFGH 45m. Steve Watson, 49 Treadwell Road, Epsom, Surrey. KT18 5JR, Tel: 07803 260912 Email: kswatson@talktalk.net Emailed entries & payment by Paypal accepted – email organizer for details.

Race 12 Eelmore Cycle Kingdom Circuits

Results from Race 12 of the Cycle Kingdom Eelmore Circuit Series
held 29th June.

E12 RACE
1 - Tim Elverson - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
2 - Justin Hoy - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
3 - Dante Carpentar - Asfra RC - 1J
4 - Richard Mardle - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
5 - John Wager - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
6 - Lee Smith - Felt-Colbornes Racing Team - E
7 - Robert McCarthy - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 1
8 - Andy Hargroves - Hargroves / Specialized - 1
9 - James Bracey - VC Meudon - 2
10 - David Creeggan - VC Meudon - 1
11 - Dave Larcombe - Cycle Kingdom Race Team - 2V
12 - George Goci - Tor 2000 - 2
13 - Chris Snook - Banjo Cycles.Com - 2
14 - Richard Unwin - VC Meudon - 2
15 - Darren Parker - Python RT - 2


3/4 RACE
1 - Rudie Marais - Archer - 3
2 - Cam Swarbrick - AW Cycles - 3J
3 - Joe Crolla - Palmer Park Velo - YA
4 - Ben Marks - Cycleworks.co.uk - 3
5 - Jon Harris - CCB - 3
6 - Brian Macpherson - VC Meudon - 3
7 - Craig O'Neil - VC Meudon - 3
8 - George Withers - Palmer Park Velo - YA
9 - Mark Bremner - VC Meudon - 3V
10 - George Crouch-Giorgios - VC Meudon 3

YOUTH RACES
1 - Kye Lewis - Slipstreamers - E Boys
2 - Elliot Moreve - Slipstreamers - E Boys
3 - Ben Coppola - VC Meudon - E Boys

1 - Joe McGuinness - H S S - D Boys
2 - Jay Allen - P.Park Velo - D Boys
3 - Zac Elverson - Felt Racing - D Boys

1 - Charles Page - H S S - C boys
2 - Thamana Nel - Velocity - C boys
3 - Joss Banfield - P/M - C boys

1 - Cormac Scully-King - VC Meudon - B Boys
2 - George Moore - I-Team - B Boys

1 - Fred Pritchard - Charlotteville CC - A boys
2 - Jake Norman - Wyndymilla - A boys
3 - Richard Allen - Wyndymilla - A boys

Good day at the vet's nationals for Craig

A good day at the LVRC nationals for flying Craig P, ably supported by Gianluca and Gabriel. Having missed the break all three were forced to chase with two to go. The chase proved successful but there was some confusion over if there was someone still up the road as Craig rode kamikazee down the hill before turning into the longish finishing hill to win the gallop, with Gianluca - still recovering from time off after a broken ankle - in 9th and Gabriel in 11th. Unfortunately there was still one away, giving Craig the runner up spot.

Photos:
http://swarbrick.com/

Here's the organiser's report:

The LVRC 2011 National Road Race Championships for ABC categories
On a glorious hot summers day 125 riders turned out to compete in the Reading CC hosted Championships on an acknowledged deceptively tough 7.8 mile circuit near Henley on Thames – made doubly so as the heat increased through the day, peaking at 28C. All of the races were exceptionally animated and very competitive and made for a fantastic day of racing.
In the A category, 35 riders set off for 8 laps of the circuit (62miles) averaging just under 20 minutes a lap. Mike Simpson from the local club GS Henley, had storming last two laps eventually coming home the winner in 2hrs 35mins and 1min 25secs clear of the next finisher – Craig Peter - Cycle Kingdom who just edged ahead of Paul Bell - Peak RC, Mike Jones – Paramount CRC – all three covered by less than 0.5 sec.
In the B category, 45 riders set off for 7 laps of the circuit (55 miles) and on lap 2 proceeded to set the fastest lap of the day at 18mins 50sec. Another clear winner in Malcolm Smith – St Ives CC in 2hrs 15mins, and 8 secs clear of Nigel Stephens – Finchley RT, with Simon Alexander a further second back.
After a lunch break, a further 45 riders in the C category race set off on their 7 laps (55 miles) – which despite the heat turned into a real cracker of a race. On lap 4 under the constant attacks and heat, attrition truly set in with 14 riders abandoning – and a further 5 doing so by the end. With a little over 2 laps to go a strong group of 4 riders had forged a good break and worked well together – Jim Moffatt, Martin O’Grady, David Stevens and Steven Marrow. The peloton started to implode as a hard working chasing group formed – Bendan Heaslip, Mick Davies, Patrick Schils, Nick Giles and Les Liddiard. On the final lap Moffat and O’Grady attacked and went clear and in the last 2 miles, Jim Moffat went again to come home the winner in 2hrs 19mins, with Martin O’Grady just 11secs behind, followed by David Stevens at 1min 14secs and Steven Marrows at 1min 33secs. Riders came in 1’s and 2’s up to 5mins 30secs later.
In the supporting race for DEF categories only 17 riders came out to play, over 5 laps (40 miles). Don Parry, Barrie Jones and Ray Robinson attacked at th end of lap one – were never seen again, and finished in that order.
With numerous complimentary reports from the competitors, Reading CC can be proud of putting on an event worthy of a National Championship.

Fast times at A3CRG

Timetrialling is no longer an unfashionable cycling backwater peopled by eccentric oddballs (apart from Stuart obviously who brought us these times). This week's results are from the A3CRG 25:

Alan Ridler was 6th in a rapid 50.26, Stuart Morgan was 41st also well under the hour in 56:50 and the remarkable John Woodburn was 42nd in 57:14. If you're thinking about riding a timetrial and want to know more, email us and we'll pass you on to one of the keener timetriallists for direction.

Kevin's epic ironman - report

Tempted to do an Ironman? Read Kevin O'Neill's report may help you make up your mind one way or the other:



"Over the last few years I’ve done a few triathlons ranging from sprint to middle and have watched inquisitively from a distance at people doing the full distance race and wondered how & more importantly why. One drunken evening with friends last August I decided to find out and entered the Forestman at Sandy Balls in the New Forest, for my first and possibly only ‘Ironman’ distance race. Mostly because it was local, which seemed as good as a reason as any. It also happens to be the hardest full distance race in the UK. For the non-triathletes amongst the cycling club, as I expect most reading this will be, it’s a 2.4 mile swim, 112 mile bike ride culminating in a 26.2 mile shuffle.
Contrary expectations of what constitutes an ‘Ironman’, I was not and still don’t consider myself to be a natural distance athlete. I was an average footballer whose principle asset was speed not endurance and in pre-season training we would be faced with 2x12 mins fartlek sessions that would have us all reeling at the excruciating session awaiting us; and for the very few lucky ones sickness behind a goalpost. In training for a full distance race you quickly learn to rationalise the event into manageable segments and it all becomes very normal and self-absorbing, but as I or my wife or I mentioned the race to people recently it became clear how heretics (or non-Triathletes as I know them) perceived the event. After ‘retiring’ from football some years ago and an aborted attempt to start up again which abruptly ended with the requirement for an ACL reconstruction (rehabbed wonderfully by our local club physiotherapist Mr Hards), I decided to get active again. So after rehab and a many sedentary years I did the Fleet half marathon and waddled across the line in 2 hrs 6 minutes. Not exactly a time to frighten Mo Farah’s trainers off his athletic feet. Little did I realise where the journey would take me and indeed where it may end - one day! So the moral of the corny story is that if I can do anyone can do it.
Swim (3.8 km / 2.4 miles)
A gloomy and misty lake beckoned us for a 5:30am start at Ellingham Lake, but at least there was an expectant atmosphere and you could tell people were keen to put months of hard training into practice. For my part, swimming has always been a chore. I’m not very good at it, so I don’t practice it, which I recognise makes little sense. In fact I hadn’t swum since February or March, which I’m assuming most training manuals wouldn’t prescribe as ideal Ironman preparation. However, I was confident I’d be able to saunter round and simply take it from there. I took up my usual position at the back to let all the budding Michael Phelps’s go off at break neck speed and I could ease away gently at my own pace without being beaten, eyes gouged out or punched in the head. After about 100-150m I thought my race was about to end, a complete inability to breathe came over me and I thought I was going to climb into the nearest canoe and get them to take me back to the bank. A small amount of pride and a large amount of eternal shame urged me onwards. I rested, doggy paddled a bit and then breast stroked for a couple of minutes before getting into the swing of things.
I settled into a nice rhythm after a half a mile or so and formed a touching bond with the chap next to me. We were swimming at exactly the same stroke rate and breathed so that we looked longingly at each other on every stroke – and we continued to do that for the next 2 miles! I just couldn’t shake him whether I speeded up or slowed down and this proved to be quite amusing when you’ve nothing else to think about. Frankly, I’ve had relationships that haven’t lasted as long as this one, but in some small way – and one he’ll never know – he helped me get through the grind of the swim. So thank you whoever you are.
After the troublesome first lap, the rest of the swim was relatively uneventful and I came out the water in 1:14mins for a lengthy T1 getting ready for the bike leg.
• Official time 1 hrs 20 mins (inc T1);
• Overall placing in swim leg 88th (of 125).

Bike (180 km / 112 miles)
Two weeks ago on a Saturday club run, I was ready to pull out of the Forestman and I was completely dejected. We rode down to Petworth and it wasn’t an especially quick ride (Garmin said 17.6 mph over 70 miles) but I think I had my brakes on the whole way and to say I struggled would be an understatement, I was colossally worried. A ride length that I’d been doing easily all winter easily was now suddenly a major problem. At one point I thought Terry was going to offer me a tow lift on his bike so we could get moving again at a reasonable speed. I was hoping it was either a minor virus or overtraining. Only time would tell.
Back to the race! The bike course was described by the Event Director as “honest” and I think this was a perfect description. It was 3 laps of an undulating New Forest circuit with only a couple of steep hills to speak of. We were warned the first couple of laps would feel easy; then the last lap has a habit of biting your saddle sored backside if you’ve gone too hard. The course itself was beautiful, made all the more amusing for the suicidal horses, cows, donkeys and sheep that clearly haven’t read a highway manual or seen the Green Cross code adverts from the 70’s. They’d just wander out into the road, paying no attention to the brightly clad lycra idiots on TT bikes approaching rapidly. All on TT / road bikes, that is, except one eccentric gentleman who decided a mountain bike, trainers and toe clips was the way ahead. I cannot fathom how long his day was.
This should be my best leg, the one where I had the chance to make up time lost in the swim, but as this was first Ironman I was conscious of going too hard and rendering myself incapable for the upcoming run leg. I concentrated on keeping my watts and heart rate to a steady state, but was still passing constantly passing people; and amazingly my restraint came through for once and that’s exactly what I did. The key to Ironman success, I have been assured, is in delicate pacing and this was at the fore of my mind all day. The whole ride felt exceptionally comfortable, which is more than can be said of the chain gang on a Thursday night as I’m unceremoniously ejected from the rear. The only real element of difficulty I had was staying down on the aero bars from 70-80 miles onwards as I was getting some pain in the back of the neck. The most pleasing thing was that not one person passed me on the bike leg and that’s never happened in any other event, so the bike training must be paying dividends in some small measure.
I’d like to say the ride was uneventful, alas it wasn’t quite perfect. One puncture (which amazingly happened at the exact spot my wife & family were watching), one mechanical incident with brakes rubbing at and a broken rear bottle holder all impinged on my time, but apart from those and the expected feed & toilet breaks I couldn’t have been more pleased with my ride.
• Official time for the bike leg was 6 hrs 03 mins;
• Overall placing in bike leg 27th;
• Actual ride time (minus punctures & mechanicals) was 5 hrs 45 mins according to my Garmin which would have been good enough to place me about 10th. Fastest guy did it in 5:06.
• Moving speed on the Garmin was 19.8 mph;
• Average Watts 180, max power 500 watts;
• Average HR 128;
• Total ascent circa 1400 meters over the 3 laps.
Coming into to T2 at about 7 hours 30 minutes, my private target time of 12:00hrs was still looking eminently achievable and gave me nearly 4 and a half hours to play with on the marathon. A sub 4 hour marathon would see me smash it.
Run (42 km / 26.2 miles)
Purgatory. That’s the only word that can do justice to the final leg. A marathon at the end of an Ironman is never going to be easy and the Forestman prides itself on being the toughest full distance event in the UK and the run is the principle reason why. It a very hilly, off-road marathon made to destroy the souls of men & women! Destroy, is exactly what it did to me.
In 25+ degree heat, I set off at a very comfortable 9 min pace, with a plan to run this pace on the flats and walk the uphill sections to conserve energy. The plan was going well at halfway which I went through in just over two hours, but I could tell the heat and hills were beginning to take effect. Nevertheless, the next half in under 2:20 would still see me beat my target time – still achievable - I thought.

At about 18 miles after lifting my very heavy 4 year old daughter and heading back up one of the many hills, I could begin to feel every stone on the track, the intense sun was also beginning to take its toll and I was spending longer and longer at each aid station, downing gels like they were the elixir of life and trying to keep well hydrated by drinking and pouring it over me. I was still ‘running’ but getting slower. One of the aid stations was manned by Farnham Triathlon Club and there were a couple of people that I’ve met on club runs before (sorry can’t remember your names) and they very kindly looked after me and gave me a good pep talk after we’d talked about bikes!
Average mile pace was beginning to drop off rapidly and there was nothing I could do about it. The support each and every runner got at the aid stations from volunteers and other spectators was incredibly lifting and it’s one of the most redeeming qualities of triathlon. The spirit of camaraderie is unmatched, even competitors cajole each other on, because for the majority of us average athletes, it’s not really about beating someone else it’s about your own personal performance.
On the third lap I got my blue band to signify I could make my way home. A puny 5 miles was all it was. In normal circumstances that’s a little over half an hours running but this was going to take a little more. For the first time at 22 miles I had to resort to walking with the sun beating down and my calves hurting. Within half a mile of the finish line I got into competition with a chap to see which of us could run the slowest without resorting to walking, I won and he beat me to the finish by half a minute. Actual run time was 4:43.
• Official time 4 hrs 52 mins (inc T2);
• Overall placing in run leg 36th.

Overall
Total finishing time was 12 hours 17 minutes - finishing in 25th position overall.
I didn’t quite break my target time of 12:00 hrs, but for my first full distance event on such a hot day, on such a tough course with the bike problems, I’m exceptionally pleased. I’m still no closer to answering the question of how & why people do these events but I know that even with painful feel and sunburned shoulders, I have absolutely no doubt I’ll be back for more, though my wife may not be too happy to hear that!
The highlight of the day was reserved for the very end though, with family and friends waiting at the finish and running over the finish line with my children in each hand to rapturous rounds of applause and cheering. It was the final act of a great day that will live long in my memory! Now just off to get drunk and plan what’s next…."