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An Introduction to Time Trialling
By John Hemming
To the beginner, getting into racing can
seem daunting. Fear of the unknown coupled with a seemingly impenetrable
maze of administration can be enough to make you not bother at all.
However, all hope is not lost; here is the Addiscombe CC guide to starting
out at riding time trials.
What’s a Time Trial?
A race against the clock. Riders start off individually at intervals
(normally one minute apart) and ride over a set course. The rider who
completes the course in the fastest time wins.
How far are they?
The shortest distance is 10 miles, and then standard distances are 25, 50
& 100 miles, then 12 hours & 24 hours. There are also quite a few
non-standard races generally in the 15-30 mile range.
How fit do I have to be?
Anyone who can cope with an Addiscombe club run can cope with a 10 or 25
mile time trial.
How do I start?
The easiest way is the Addiscombe club events; a series of 10 mile events
in the summer. They are held midweek on the A24 just south of Dorking at
around 7:30pm.
How do I enter?
For the club events, just tell Dave Palmer you want to ride, and then turn
up on the night. For “open” events, fill in the CTT
entry form and send it to the organiser with the entry fee at least two
weeks before the event.
Do I need a special bike?
No, any bike will do to start with. Special equipment like tri-bars and
aerodynamic wheels can come later.
What should I wear?
Generally, your club kit, or plain kit if you haven’t got club kit. You’re
not allowed to wear trade team (US Postal etc) clothing in open events;
although for club events anything goes.
Do I need a race licence?
No, you just need to be a member of a club affiliated to the governing
body “Cycling Time Trials” (CTT). As an Addiscombe CC member you’re
already sorted.
How much does it cost?
Entry fees are generally around £5 - £6 for open events. Club events are
cheaper.
I don’t know the course, will I get lost?
No, there will be direction signs or marshals at any junctions where you
need to turn off the road you’re already on.
What’s in it for me?
Most people who ride time trials don’t win, it’s all about pushing
your own limits. The first time out you will do a personal best (PB), then
you can aim to improve on this time. Some events have handicap prizes and
as a beginner you’re in with a good chance of winning these prizes.
How do I find out more?
All the Open events are listed on the CTT website (http://www.ctt.org.uk),
and in the CTT handbook which you can buy from the website.
Who can I ask for more help?
Addiscombe CC’s Time Trial secretary is Dave Palmer. Just ask down at
the cafe on a club run and people will be pleased to help you.
OK, I’ve entered an Open event, what
happens next?
In the week leading up to the event you will receive a copy of the start
sheet. This will give details of the course, the event HQ, all the riders
and their starting time. Get to the HQ with plenty of time to spare before
your starting time – an hour is about right if you’ve driven there.
Sign on in the HQ and get your race number. Pin the number low down on
your back (almost on your bum) so it can be seen from behind when you’re
crouched over in a tuck position. Warm up and ride to the start, aiming to
arrive with a few minutes to spare. Put your bike in a suitable gear so
you can get going from a standstill. Wait in the start area for your
number to be called. Move up to the start line. With 30 seconds or so to
go the “pusher-off” will hold you upright while you get both feet in
the pedals ready to go. The timekeeper will count down the final few
seconds then the pusher off will give you a shove and off you go. Ride the
course as fast as you can. The finish is marked by a chequered flag or
board. Don’t stop here – carry on back to the HQ. Results will be
shown on a board at the HQ while you have a cup of tea & cake, you
will also get a copy of the full result a few days after the event.
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