Another Tuesday, another '10'. Last night was the first I'd ridden in a fortnight, what with holidays an' sheet. I didn't know what to expect. Also the weather was bobbins for the first time this racing season. I hate riding in the wet. I don't mind the discomfort or the cold; it's the fear of crashing that I could live without.
As it happens, I needn't have worried on either score. I don't know what they surface road race tracks with these days, but it's amazing stuff - fast and yet grippy. In days of yore, we raced on concrete, and cattle-class concrete at that. It was as smooth and attractive as cellulite. In the rain, it was like trying to ride on a bouncy castle made of engine oil. I still used to race though. I was young then and as thick as shite. I have more respect for my neck these days. If it looks dodgy out, I'll give it a miss.
And, rather delightfully, in spite of my non-conformist preparations, I rode pretty well and posted a season's best. Hurrah! It may be my last ride for a while though. Next week is a "two-up"; that's a 10 mile time-trial but for pairs of riders. The trouble is I don't have any mates. I'm too cool and aloof.
I'll be off then.
No comments:
Post a Comment