26/3 HSLCC Chaingang- Return Of The Cold

Fast changing conditions did not bode well for a good turn out on the chain gang - cold showers in the afternoon and a temperature fast dropping towards zero - but 20 suitably dressed riders made the start in good spirits. Whatever else the weather was doing, it was near-windless. We would soon create our own heat and the prospects were for a fast training session.

Too Cold For Stu!

A disciplined group set out a little late at a good pace, but was soon broken-up by differing tactics when we met a car waiting at a zebra crossing. Some took advantage of the dithering motorist whilst most held back. This allowed a small group to get ahead, whilst the remainder split into two main groups, before braking up further on South Cliff and Cooden Drive. I fell into a group of four and we rotated the front. We were getting into a good rhythm but were caught at the Cooden Beach level crossing, along with a larger and faster group.

This made things messy. John pressed ahead to help bridge the gap to the quicker group as they stretched away. I tried hard to match him but was dropped, then overtaken, by Tom and others on Spooky Hill. Damn. Well, that was me for the rest of the outward leg, trying to catch a group of lights about 100m ahead of me. I bashed on through their hanging vapour trail, with no bikes in sight behind me and the cold damp air biting into my shoulders.

Look There's A Glow-worm On Me Glove!

There were already 15 riders at the roundabout, catching their steamy breath and chatting animatedly about the ride and the cold. Once the later riders had arrived, we turned for the home leg without delay. Fluency was hindered by meeting cars on bends, but ordered riding was soon restored. Dropped again on Spooky Hill, I rode with just Tom & John, rotating the lead most of the way back. Simon joined us on Cooden Drive and we upped the pace as the end of the ride came close, breaking into two pairs as we pushed ourselves hard. At the lights, we discussed how we could improve our 'through and off' riding, with differing opinions. Either way, I think we agreed that the lead rider needs to ease slightly to allow the new lead rider to get in front, otherwise the pace fluctuates too much to be truly efficient.

Overall, this seemed a faster than usual chain gang, in part because the wind was low, but perhaps also because there seems to be a more disciplined approach to group riding. Others will know better than me! I rode with Tom back to his car before doing an extra 10km or so for the hell of it, otherwise the ride would be over too soon.

Next week's chain gang will be after the clocks go forward. We should have the last shreds of daylight at the start of the ride and perhaps we will see the last of cold weather, at least until next winter. But don't blame me if we don't! In the meantime, does anyone have any tips to help me improve my performance in hills..?

Happiness Is A Dry Chaingang!