Shaved Legs

Fathers Day

2009-06-10T15:33:00.000-07:00

I was watching a TV programme about sportsman the other day and how they all have superstitions or at least routines and habits from which they never deviate. The only common thing with all my rides or races is that I'll leave the house late and ill prepared.

A routine is what I need, but I just can't do it. Nothing I own is ever in the same place as before, don't get me wrong I'm not messy (okay a little) I put things away but because the correct place for something hasn't been established I have a hell of time remembering where. So the only ritual I was aware of until today was that I spend the morning searching the house saying, 'I've saw it somewhere recently'. I now keep my old helmet and shoes in the car so should forget my currents ones I'll still be able to race.

I went to Richmond Park today to have a crack at the 3-Lap Challenge, not with much hope as I'd been to mate's funeral yesterday and got a little worse for wear. Anyhow as I approached the Park, I felt the need to pee. And it occured to me I always get the need at the same time. And every time instead of waiting till I get to the public toilets in the Park I pull over to my favourite spot. Why there I can't anwser, it is over looked by a block of flats and on a slope so my wee runs back down towards me and between my feet. But there it is my Richmond Park ritual.

The actual 3 laps went quite well, and I posted a time of 50:21. I've been worried about my fitness lately but the time shows if I don't get held up by cars and breeze isn't too strong I'm not too bad. I'm still struggling to be pleased though, because if I'd known how well I was going I'd have pushed that bit more, as it was I found myself drifting of in to my thoughts and losing concentration. I've made a mental note (can't find a pen or paper) to remember my bike speedo next time, and my sunglasses, it's too early to say what I'll forget instead.

2009-06-10T15:18:00.000-07:00

I wish I had some great cycling report to post but I don't. In fact I've been fighting my corner to still maintain my training schedule as my wife thinks it is effecting the quality of our relationship. We don't talk enough (obviously) but since when I'm not training we just watch a variety of crap TV I don't see the issue. Now the Apprentice has finished I have Masterchef to suffer, with Casualty and Holby City in between.

She thinks all I do is watch TV, cycle on the spot in the conservatory and nod off on the sofa, when I should be paying more attention to her needs. I pointed out the battery/light bulb changing duties I fulfill, along with putting the bin out on a weekly basis. Apparently I missed the point she was making. With luck we should be talking again by the weekend, until I ask to go for a ride.

It shouldn't be this hard.

2009-05-24T23:58:00.000-07:00

As usual, with my family, work and cycling life balance up the creek I took to the turbo trainer for a quick 1 hour (can 1 hour be quick/slow?) training session.

Now my motivation has been low for some time, but with good reason. I haven't raced for almost a year, I haven't entered any future events either and I've failed to get to the races I had lined up. So I'm left wondering why I train at all, or even ride my bike since more often than not it is in doors on the trainer.

A friend asked why as I was cyclist my legs were so pale, I replied because it is dark when I cycle at 11pm, and I'm in doors anyway. I could tell she didn't get how I could have a hobby, passion. Especially as I don'thave time to race.

The National 10 TT I had been training for clashed with a funeral, c'ai la vie. All the exciting stage races are held on the weekend of my wedding anniversary so they are a no no, even if I promised to be back for dinner somewhere nice. Apparently I shouldn't even think such a thing. The Smithfield Nocturne would have been very convenient but it falls on my son's birthday.

So I mounted my bike on the turbo with some resignation, wondering why I bother. I could just have a cold beer and some crisps.

I started my current time trial training based on cadence and gearing, and almost immediately found it hard to maintain my usual cadence in selected gears. I struggled on, imagining the sweat pouring off me, splashing into the puddles on the floor was the lactic acid I had building up in my legs.

After 35 minutes I thought sod it. It wasn't working for me, it shouldn't be this hard. I climbed off the bike as if I'd just pulled out of the tour.Then when releasing the turbo fly wheel, I realised the rear brake caliper was stuck against the wheel, doubling the usual resistance.

I'm back.

2009-05-07T13:21:00.000-07:00

Back by popular demand - I hope the people talking me into the world of blogging again bother to post some comments!

In truth I haven't so much been away from the blog but cycling or more precisely racing. It's been close to a year since my last race now, apart from a brief spin in the Good Friday Meeting at Herne Hill.

Many may know that you aren't meant to race at Herne Hill unless you have done the induction, which makes perfect sense as track racing is different to road racing in so many ways. I was well aware of this despite not having ever been on a track before. Unfortunately every Saturday morning I turned up for the induction it rained. I now had the dilemma as to whether or not to race on Good Friday, already having entered but with zero experience of riding on a banked track yet alone a race, yet alone a race against the best in the world.

Perhaps I always knew I'd go for it, too good an opportunity to turn down and how hard can it be, as my friend Patrick pointed out.

Walking across the track into the centre was a thrill, seeing the Olympic squad and all ther entourage setting up rollers and tuning slip streamed carbon bikes may my stomach turn. This was rediculous. I put down my half empty rucksack and hung up my borrowed bike.

My mobile rung, it was Patrick from near the beer tent. I went to meet him, I needed to get some perspective on what I was about to do. He summised that the banking (which now looked very steep) would be forgotten once I was in the thick of the racing. I believed him.

As luck would have it, beofre my first race, I snatched my first few laps of a track, fine on the relative flat in the centre, but a little uncomfortable the higher I went. Then my race was called, in a panic I put on Patrick's helmet not mine and headed to line up. I figured I'd start right at the back so as to not cause anyone a problem right from the gun. Someone chose to hold the rail behind me, well that's his look out I thought. Then he tapped me on the shoulder, I turned round and the rider asked how often the sprints were, I said 'every 5 laps I think' then turned back round. I looked to the sky and almost said a prayer, Gold medalist Ed Clancy was starting behind me.

Once we were off without incident, I kept a low profile getting used to the change of speeds and the banking. The pace wasn't too bad, I could manage moving up from the back to the front in less than a lap. Apart form a brief spell on the front to stretch the legs, I decided to keep well within my limits and having gained a little experience see if I could may be pull something out of the bag in the other two races I had entered.

Of course it then rained and the day was over almost before it had begun. My wife turned up late, so she has still never seen me race! Yet alone against the GB team.

I was a little deflated when I got home, I could have put a little more into that first race, seen what I capable of. Never mind. Pat confessed he thought I was mad to even give it a go, as did most of the Paragon. I little fun, but now I need to enter some races with the serious intension of winning.

And teach my little boy a few more card tricks.

Surrey League

2008-07-09T05:00:00.000-07:00

Ever race day starts the same, the appointed hour to hit the road and make my way to circuit passes in a blur as I manage getting the children fed and possibly even dressed. This time I was supposed to be picking Patrick up en route, but by the time I was ready to leave, he was already 45 minutes ahead under his own steam. Something was bothering me about the race, like when you have to double check you've locked the front door, but I double checked my kit bag all seemed in order.

So my first race of the day is getting to Tenderden before it is too late. I pull up and spot Pat, milling around already with his number pinned on. I ask him to park the van as I dash in to register. The Surrey League have splashed out on some transmitters to accurately clock the times, interesting as the Tour de France have now followed suit. It all adds time to the pre race preparation though, I'm really going to have leave the house only 30 minutes late soon.

As the field headed off, I warmed up by yo-yoing from the back to middle and back again. It was getting very hot and as I reached down for my water bottle I was reminded that I didn't have bottle cage yet alone a drink. Now I remembered what I was bothering me.

Half way round the first lap and a few people made a break, it looked doomed despite the healthy numbers in it as it began to split up. I saw a prospect and moved up and off the front. I bridged the gap and collected the riders in no mans land. We were eight, I put in a long stint, for which Andy from Dulwich Paragon kindly described me as a motor bike. We pulled away, and I moved of the front. Soon a cry came that we were caught, a few riders sat up dispirited. It is common knowledge that the best time to attack is as a break is caught. Then why not attack again even if you are in the break! So I hit the front again.

From an after race discussion this made Andy smile, we pulled away once more. I did a longer turn now taking no chances. My strategy was risky and it can only work with 100% commitment, all or nothing. If I make this break work, I'm guaranteed 8th place and some points which is what I need.

I know riders who enter 2 races a week, I'm 1 every 6 weeks. This makes it very hard to accumulate points, I got my 40 to make 2nd Cat in 5 races. I now need 40 points to stay there. I can't wait and play the game for 1st place. If I can make certain of 6 points early in the race, that is what I'll do.

Sadly, the lack of water played it's part eventually and I cramped on the last lap. I was possibly paying the price for the early efforts too. I now had the fear of being caught by the bunch as I rode alone. I forgot to mention I didn't have a speedo either so judging my pace was very difficult. The last climb was hard, very hard, but once at the top the ride to the finish was easy I knew I was home and dry.

I had to smile,to be honest I felt like a winner. I had seen 6 points up for grabs and taken them. Of course there was a possibility of more, but without water I knew that was a long shot. My fellow breakees questioned the lack of water bottles, as if I'd measured my pre race fluid in take precisely so I could ride without the added weight. I was sorry to dissappoint them - just good ole stupidity.

Who knows when the next race will be, but the new Oberon bike has now been christened.

My 1st 2upTT

2008-07-04T02:38:00.000-07:00

I usually do things alone. I always have done. I'm shy, which may be the biggest reason and also I'm scared of failure so the longer I can keep my intentions secret the longer it is before anyone can question me of the wisdom.

The Kingston Wheelers do a club 10 TT every other Wednesday, and this week was to be a 2 UP. I'd checked and it was possible for me ride solo, whichh was perfect. I'd get to test myself against the clock safe in the knowledge that I couldn't fail in anyway as everyone one else was in pairs.

However another Kingston Wheeler was looking for a partner, and asked me. Before I knew it, I had teamed up with a complete stranger unaware of his strength. He may drop me like a stone.

Ben is a nice guy, I still don't know him very well, his PB was 23 something which didn't mean much as I didn't know the course. We'd hit upon the tactic of changing every 2.5 miles,which shows how much we knew.

Now I'd assumed a 2up TT, would be easier than a solo ride, not least because you spend half the race drafting. Boy was I wrong.

I was in front at first and setting a reasonable pace but well within the 2.5 miles Ben came round me. I didn't have a speedo so assumed I'd been going a little easy for him, however as I settled behind him, I got the impression he had underestimated how hard the going was. I wasn't complaining it was obvious every 2.5 for a change was silly.

We changed at will, not on the downhills. I dropped him briefly, but we rode together very well and I found myself really enjoying it - plus it seemed a fast ride.

We rode hard side by side across the line, we'd past a few couples and I had a good feeling.

We couldn't hide our exhaustion in the carpark, in our attempts not to let each other down and our competitve sides we'd done it pretty much at our max. Once I felt my lungs returned to their rightful place I had a drink and smiled.

The results showed us as second, which I have to say is a good result.

Sadly they only do one 2UP a year, but I'm keen to find another.

That's racing

2008-06-17T07:51:00.000-07:00

You know you've had a bad day on the bike when some one says 'That's racing'.

I really dissappointed with my result at Smthfield Nocturne, not because I didn't win so much, but more why I didn't win. Anyone who had down a criterium on short, tight circuit will tell you that starting near the front is paramount. So why was lining up last behind everyone else! Stupidity, is all I can think of.

On the first lap I could see the head of the field 3/4's of the way round already! This put some fire in my belly and I decided the training wasn't going to be in vain. I raced throught the field, bridging multiple gaps to make it to the lead group.

Then I hit the barriers. My fault. Two riders had got away, and I was impatient. You need to take risks sometimes, but this wasn't one of them. Stupidity again.

I'd dropped so far back by the time I was back on the bike I had little chance of making an impact. But what chance I had was diminished by my attitude. I just thought sod it. I cruised round with little interest in racing, angry and fed up.

With a bit more belief I could have snatched some points, but I wasted my form and all those all hours in training because I just felt everything was against me and I decided not to fight it.

It's only one race and may be it is for the best, as I learnt a lot from all the mistakes.

Me leading the 2nd group round, a little bored and disheartened.

The Battle of the Bulge begins.

2008-05-26T15:15:00.000-07:00

Okay, I know I'm not obese but in terms of cycling and where I have been before, I'm tipping the scales in the wrong direction. It's down to a combination of things, I no longer have a commute, the weather has been awful, and my daughter insisted on buying a tub of Nutella. Damn that stuff is nice.

The Smithfield Nocturne is less than two weeks away, and I really need to perform there, but I know it is going to be a hard race and my confidence is low. I should be thinking of bagging some points but at present I'm scared of being lapped.
My training regime is mapped out, nothing but high intensity intervals. I have no choice given the timescale, but these are hard, not just physically but mentally.

The will power required to do that last repetition when your heart rate is through the roof and your legs are burning can be too much. Still, it is easier than watching Britain has Talent.

I have actually just done the first of my sessions (it is now 11.34pm). I may skip the turbo tomorrow in favour of the Crystal Palace Crit, which will also give me a chance to get used to the new Oberon bike.

On the business front, the orders are coming in and I think being processed efficently. I've even delivered a few on the same day. But the advertising costs and other expenses mean a decent income is still some way off. I'm thinking of starting a mobile bike maintenance service for London, I have these ideas but making them a reality can be difficult. We'll see.

Oberon Party

2008-05-21T06:54:00.000-07:00

Forgot to do this post, so it is from some time ago now and okay it wasn't really a party.

I introduced some friends to the Oberons. I know from the pictures it appears there is only 2 people there including me but that really wasn't the case.

(Yes that is my van)

Pat practices with the Champagne should Smithfield Nocturne go to plan.

Me and the invisible man!

Too much of a good thing.

2008-05-21T06:33:00.000-07:00

Apparently you can have too much of a good thing, so the Shavedlegs Team took it upon themselves to havesome dissappointing results.

I'd been looking forward to the Hillingdon GP, once I'd remembered I had entered it (why don't more organisers send an e-mail?). I had a cunning plan formulated in my mind; relax for 51 laps then solo break the last 5 to a surprise victory. And I would have been surprised, but I thought one or two laps out in front would get the shavedlegs name mentioned to the crowd of 6 or 7 spectators.

I was racing on the Oberon for the first time, a brave move since it has only been ridden 100 yards before. Right from the start I was in trouble, the bike didn't want to turn. Okay for the long corners, although I immediately slipped from mid field to last by taking the widest line as everyone else hugged the apex. But I was terrified hurtling down the hill at 30+mph determined not to be dropped towards the right hand bend. I made it using all the track possible. There was no way I could ride in the bunch using a different line to everyone else so I had to accept after 3 laps of letting the pack get away through the bends and chasing like made down the straight to call it a day.

The only relief came when I discovered the handling issue was due to the bearing in my rear hub and nothing with the bike or my servicing skills.

Not a wasted afternoon for the team as Patrick managed 5th and bagged an astonishing £40 in the 3/4 Cat race. I've never won that much for winning!

Brimming with confidence Patrick entered Crystal Palace on Tuesday. I had planned to go, but as usual family life had come first, so I was told.

Pat 'survived' only 4 laps I believe before pulling out for fear his heart was going to explode. Not a good sign for the Smithfield Nocturne where the tactic is to lead all the way and really get Shavedlegs noticed.

A race against time.

2008-05-08T06:39:00.000-07:00

Well, enough fun designing bikes. I need to train.
With the new business taking up so much time, not to mention the children, I've been off the bike for 3 weeks now. Not much of a worry until now as I've just realsed the Smithfield Nocturne is on the horizon. A brief chat with Patrick has got me scared.

Apparently only 12 riders from 60 starters finished last year due to the pace and crashes. Suddenly the forced 9 week taper seems a very bad idea, even if I haven't piled on the weight (well a little).
I'm going to have to use the turbo once the family have gone to bed. It's a mixed blessing, riding on the spot isn't want got me into cycling, especially with the nice weather I'll be frustrated but on the other hand it forces me to do intervals suitable for a criterium such as Smithfield. It's the sort of training I hate as it is very intense, requires a lot of motivation and will power and I can't measure my performance. You can't always train your strengths I suppose.
Oh for a morning in Richmond Park.

Oberon has landed

2008-04-16T22:51:00.001-07:00

I'm thrilled to have laid my hands on the first Oberon frames. These are for me to test which I can't help but think is going to be great fun.
From the moment I unpacked them I could see the quality of the workmanship. These quick photos hardly do them justice, but the finish is fantastic and the welds are very neat. They are beauties.
The geometry has been designed to deliver maximum power transfer without comprimising comfort. In short they should be the only bike you will ever need, in a world where frame manufacturers have created new bike categories such as the 'Sportive' to create a new markets, Oberon believe you just need the right bike. With the durability of Titanium and a good design one bike will cover all your needs and your childrens. All for a bargain price which hasn't been finialised yet.
First I need to build them, ride them, and race them.

The Dynamic Duo ride again!

2008-04-05T16:00:00.000-07:00

The weather was bad, the clocks had gone forward and yet when I tried to enter on the line I was told the race was full and I'd have to go on the reserves list with four others. Such was the demand for the SERRL Biddenden road race.

I really didn't fancy explaining to my wife that I didn't race after abandoning her with the children at 6.30am.

Fortunately a few people didn't turn up and I was in. There were a few strong teams from several clubs. The Dulwich Paragon and the San Ann Fairies in particular.

The race started late and as always I drifted to the back of the bunch during the ride to the circuit. The first of the four 20+ mile laps seemed unremarkable, I assume with the clubs working hard at the front, stopping anything they didn't like getting to far.

I had a half heart stab at a break, joined by Guy from Dulwich. We never got very far but it warmed my legs a little which is all I wanted. I settled in the middle of the pack planning to make a full hearted effort on the 3rd (penultimate) lap.

On the 2nd lap Patrick, my trusty wing man made something happen. He didn't think to tell me first of course! The attack fractured the front of the bunch, 5 or 6 riders were spread out, probably 20 metres from the pack. I could see Pat was struggling. I immediately bridged over to him and gave him my wheel, I then rode past the other strung out breakees, picking them up on the way. With the break assembled behind me I put in a long hard effort to get gap the up. This gave the group confidence that it was possible. We worked well together for the next two laps increasing our lead.

On the final lap, some one made a bid for freedom. My first reaction was to let him go imagining it too far for him to stay away. I changed my mind, and rode after him. Together we had a chance.

He was as happy to work with me as I with him. Our lead became convincing and I was assured of 2nd place bar a mechanical.

My computer had decided to pack in, so I could tell my speed or distance to the finish. It only seems to work in carparks before races! Anyhow for one reason or another I did all the work for the final miles, he came round me at the finsh as I looked over my wrong shoulder. I only gave a half hearted sprint, for the last few miles all I had been thinking was, 2nd = 12 points, enough to make me a 2nd Cat. I'm a 2nd Cat.

I got to watch the rest of the break finish. I was thrilled to see Pat still there amongst them. He finished 2nd of the group putting him 4th overall. A great ride and a great race by him.

I was irritated about not winning for a while, but then I had just achieved my seasons goal by March, becoming a 2nd Cat.

Until Pat moves up too, racing together will be tricky, which is a shame as I think our 2nd and 4th placing by a team of two proves, we ride really well together.

The Dynamic Duo.

2008-03-27T15:53:00.000-07:00

It's hard to describe how much Monday meant, when I first started racing I was in awe of the other riders and hardly dared dream of winning. This season so far has been amazing for me. Could I make 2nd Cat?

I stayed away from the bunch in my first race (Hillingdon Winter Series) to bag 4th behind the lead group. That gave me such a thrill.

In the Wally Gimber I was in a break with Andy Bye, we didn't make it but it was nice to riding with someone of his talent.

I had a good race at Dunton. By all accounts from the other riders, I was the strongest but not very savvy. I did far too much work but I was determined that we should stay away. I'd started the break accidentally trying to get warm and out of the spray because I didn't have any glasses. Anyhow I cramped up on the last lap but hung on for fourth, which I would settled for before the start and it is of course a good result.

But Monday at Dunton was very special. My team mate Patrick knew the organiser and 'bigged' me up a bit before the race. A little embarressing but you can't interrupt and say actually I'm fairly average.

The pace was slowfor the first two laps, and I moved to the front thinking a break could happen. It was windy so a small group could make it. There was a little bit of action at the front, people jumping off but with no real effort or conviction.

I put in a turn at the front and stretched the bunch out a little. I rode up the hill quite hard and just heard Patrick shout 'Go Alex' so I did. I thought he was with me, probably with 10 or so other riders. I turned around and saw just myself and three riders were clear. After a few laps my three companions dropped off. I was on my tod with a little over 20 miles to go. I cursed myself for the early effort.

I decided to carry on assuming I'd be caught with time to recover, but my gap grew. In fact it contined to grow all the time. It seemed like an eternity to be riding alone, and I really only knew I had a good chance of making it when the 5 laps to go board eventually went up. The bell was a very nce sound too. I finished half a lap ahead of the pack.

As I was riding down the finishing straight I could see the spectators running across the track and lining the way. Then I knew I'd won. I held back my tears, but I'd achieved something that means a lot to me.

Patrick, had done his bit too. He was stayed in the top 6 or so of the pack but didn't help the chase. He communicated his situation, so as not to upset anyone. Not enough club mates ride for each other, or work together in races. So I have to thank him.

If I was going to win a race in my dreams, it wouldn't have been any different. May be they'd be a photograph! Or my family watching. But I'm still pinching myself.

Gosh I'm a wind bag. Feel guilty as I had to re-read MrBye's blog several times before realising he'd actually won at Hounslow!

Easter Weekend

2008-03-20T09:48:00.000-07:00

Patrick will be doing two races this weekend, despite the weather. Proving just how much he wants that 2nd Cat licence.

The first is at Betteshanger on the 22nd, and he should stand a good chance of getting a high placing. He is in good form by all accounts, better than before sking accident now, plus Betteshanger is so far from anywhere it could be a very small field.

I'm joining him on the Monday, at Hoghill. It will be only the second time we have been in the same race, I hope we can work together and have dreams of a Shavedlegs 1,2. We'll see.

Dunsfold - all the work, none of the glory

2008-03-19T08:52:00.000-07:00

The day didn't start well. I was a little hung over and tired after a late night celebrating Patricks 40th birthday again! My little boy, now 9 months, showed complete disregard for the fact I had been partying and woke up bright and cheery at 5am.

I then left the house late, so the drive was spent worrying about missing the start. I shot straight past my exit on the A3, further increasing my risk of being too late. I drove down the lanes a little irresponsibly and managed to sign on just in time.

To be honest it was so cold and wet, being too late wouldn't have upset me too much.

The first lap seemed to take forever, with muddy spray splattering me almost constantly. I found it impossible to get warm. I decided to move up to the front of the bunch, but when I got there I decided to carry on straight of the front. This was not the game plan. But the weather had made me impatient and so I had launched my attack with 48 miles to go. Approximately 43 miles early.

When I first looked back I had about 12 comrades, I kept the pace high to keep the break alive, and on my next glance over my shoulder I was left with just 3.

My companions generously let me do all the work for the next few laps, but by then I was determined we were going to stay away for the rest of race and I was happy with the work load. Every time someone took over from me the pace dropped a little at it made me nervous. Having committed myself to the break, I found myself taking the lead more often than I should and for long stints, especially the windy section, where time over the main field is to be made.

For the last 3 laps we worked okay as a unit, though I noticed the young In Gear rider being work shy.

On the last lap I figured I'd put in a huge effort and ride away from the 3 amigos. However my nemisis cramp reappeared almost as soon as I stepped on the pedals and the reverse happened. I lost contact with the others almost immediately.

It's lonely riding on your own, especially when you are cold and tired, trying to ride of cramp always aware the main field will be closing fast.

I got to the climb to the fnish still away from the pack, surprising as my speed dropped dramatically as I tried to stretch of the cramp. On the flat a kind specatator informed me they were sprinting behind me and to push hard. I gave it my all. It didn't feel like trying togo fast, just ignoring the pain.

I survived. 4th place after all that. It was so close I was given the same time as the bunch!

I shivered in the village hall,got changed, wiped my face clean as best I could and had a cup of tea.

A couple of riders said hello, expressed surprise I hadn'twon as they felt I was the strongest rider. Someone else said he tried but couldn't keep up with me. All very nice comments which mean a lot as I train in isolation, squeezing everything around work and home.

If I hadn't have been to a party the night before? May be not gone so idiotically early? Who knows? Who cares? I raced and really enjoyed it. Nice people, great race. 8 points and not 15. That's okay.

Direct Marketing

2008-03-19T00:31:00.000-07:00

How does a new business get it's foot through the market door?

I have no idea, but I kicked off the marketing campaign for Shavedlegs with a flapjack give away. They went down very well even if I say so myself. But then what cyclist turns down a flapjack after a training ride!

The best element for me was meeting so many people, the flapjacks provided the ideal catalyst to a conversation, either about the shop or cycling in general. They was a diverse mix of riders, I only wish we'd all integrate a little more. I would like to have introduced a few groups to each other, perhaps next time.

Corporate clothing

2008-03-10T13:03:00.001-07:00

I love the idea of 'corporate clothing'. Makes the existence of Shavedlegs a little more real. The shop sign should be up soon, that is the icing on the cake.

Any how in preparation for the flapjack give-away and the inaugural unofficial Richmond Park TT, Shavedlegs T-shirts and Hoodies have arrived. I was scared they'd be awful but I honestly like them. My hair on the other hand is another kettle of fish, I'll get the clippers out this evening and as for my pose, well I wouldn't even make the C&A catalogue.

First day in the office.

2008-03-10T10:53:00.000-07:00

Not a bad day as it goes. Starting your own business is very hard to describe. You're on your own and no one knows you exsist. At least not yet.

I was left holding the baby as it happens. Not something I could have done in my old 'real' job. He was as good as gold and allowed to me to get quite a bit done.

Sunday is the big day for the marketing push. Starting on a limited budget means no big launch party or ad campaign, instead I will be going to the people. As you probably know, for the cyclists in London Richmond Park is something of a mecca, the roads are fairly quiet and it has rural feel. I will be there handing out Shavedlegs flapjacks as post ride snacks.

I hope people give me a chance.

The very popular Mr Bye!

2008-03-03T03:53:00.000-08:00

I raced in the Wally Gimber yesterday. My first road race ever. The threat of on coming traffic made me unrelaxed for the most part of the race, especially since to get through the field it was necessary to go on the wrong side of the road.

I often gave my postion away rather cheaply surrendering it to riders pushing in. Anyway, a break of 6 riders went away while I was in the middle of the field and unable to react.

However with 1 lap to go I made my move, rather bold considering the strength of the field. After a couple of miles solo I was joined by the very popular Andrew Bye. Now I don't know Andrew really, I've just seen his name in results list, usually at the top. But whenever we rode past specatators, there would be cheers of Come on Andy! I wouldn't have been surprised if knickers were thrown at him.

Anyhow I was pleased he and Gareth McCulloch joined me in the chase for the lead group. We never made it. Andy's chain came off, we gave him a push while he got it back on then I got cramp which slowed me down, but ultimately I managed to ride it off.

However Tony Gibb was driving the bunch behind us, and with just a few miles to go we were caught.

Andy did well to still grap 14th. I finished somewhere lower outside the top 20.

So well done to him, Mr 'popular' Bye, he really is a very good rider and a very nice guy.

I've resigned.

2008-02-29T01:12:00.000-08:00

No more security for me, no guaranteed monthly pay check!

My last day is the 6th of March, Shavedlegs opens for business on the 7th March and a new chapter in my life begins.

It is all very exciting, but you wouldn't believe the worry. My self designed frames should arrive next week, one Road and one Time Trial/Tri, fingers crossed they should be among the fastest bikes out there. I'm hoping to shod them with my own wheels too.

I'm now looking for events at which to promote my wares and of course training so as to do the new frames justice.

Looks like I'm going to do it

2008-02-06T04:39:00.001-08:00

The Shavedlegs.co.uk e-commerce site may well open at the end of the week. Everything is ready, including the possibility of my own brand of frames. I just need to jump here, a big decision with two kids and mortgage. Let me think..

1st puncture and 1st crash of the year

2008-02-06T04:23:00.000-08:00

Managed to get my first puncture, well actually I'd worn the tyre right through with my base miles. Unfortunately I fitted an Armidillo tyre as a replacement which is virtually a slick and pumped it up to 110psi.
All was fine until I was sweeping majestically around the Elephant Castle roundabout. The back slid out like I was on ice and I hit the concrete hard. Luckily there was no car immediately behind me. I escaped with some nice bruises and the inevitable road rash which so far I have managed to keep hidden from my nearest and dearest to prevent any questioning.
I have to say a big thanks to the guys at Met for producing quality helmets, if my head looked like my helmet does I wouldn't be writing this.

Biting off more than I can chew

2008-02-06T04:16:00.000-08:00

I'm in. I have entered the Wally Gimber Primavera, drawn by the idea of all the points on offer and elevating myself to 2nd Cat with just one win. Only now I've seen the starting line up, which reads like a who's who in domestic cycling do I realise that 2nd Cat looks a long way away. So the plan is not to get dropped, may be if I mention it is my birthday on the day they'll go easy.

Close but no cigar.

2008-01-24T06:11:00.000-08:00

I'm beginning to get miffed at failing to make it to any more of the Hillingdon Winter Series. This week I was robbed of my opportunity by some urgent swing pushing for my 3 year old.

Patrick is yet to be troubled by such obstacles and once again just hopped in his car.

He really is proving his form is coming along, but was let down tactically and perhaps by a lack of confidence. He missed the decisive break, which is so often fatal at Hillingdon, but remained comfortable near the front of the pack.

Towards the end he was a break away group, and when the others faded, launched a bid for the line. Sadly, he'd left himself a little too much do and was caught near the line and passed by 7 riders, robbing him of his first points of the season by one place.

Much like myself after the MOD Chertsey race back in October, he is kicking himself for not going a little earlier and with more determination from the outset. I think we can all learn from this lesson, no matter when they arise, you have to grap your opportunites with both hands and hold on with all your might.

He's getting better and better

2008-01-08T07:03:00.000-08:00

Patrick felt quite comfortable this week at Hillingdon. The race was won quite early when Paul Pickup got away with a few others before anyone else had even warmed up. A lot of the riders were unaware anyone had made a break until it was much too late. Patrick had something left in his legs for the sprint but failed get the most out them due to a combination of unfortunate postioning when it mattered and fearing the all too common crash.

It certainly seems like he is getting his form back and his confidence is growing along with it. On circuits such as Hillingdon if you can keep with the bunch okay then you can snatch a placing with a good tactical ride. Of course additional fitness gives you an edge and a little leeway if you misjudge a break. I expect Pat to be edging a few points in the 2/3CAT races within a week or two.

He almost managed to avoid the lens of Dennis Sackett completely perhaps because I mentioned his waist line to him the other day. Fortunately Lycra stretches and below are some images to prove it.

Pat's always happy to suck a wheel.

Pat hits the front on the downhill section

I must be getting old.

2008-01-04T10:20:00.000-08:00

This is the time of the week where I usually say to my team mates I can’t race tomorrow because of family commitments. That is the case, but this time it is me that suggested a trip to ‘Winter Wonderland’ in Hyde Park on Saturday and not my wife.

It is a dangerous hobby cycling. If you become the least bit competitive about it, it takes over your life, what you eat, what you dream about. How it becomes the most important thing ones life all of a sudden is amazing. If you want to be successful you need to be so selfish, putting in the miles weekday evening and weekends not matter what the expense. Any girlfriend is on rocky ground as soon as ‘can’t you miss the Thursday chain gang just once’ is asked.

I’ve been obsessed with becoming a 2nd CAT these last few months, not beyond the realms of possibility as I clocked up 16 points from just 2 races. But with Christmas forcing me to miss the last few meets of the Hillingdon Winter Series and ‘family commitments’ a couple more I’ve gradually become more relaxed about my ambition. I still didn’t eat a roast potato or even a Quality Street over the festive period and I’ve continued to train as normal, in fact I am probably at my peak.

I still want to race a few premier calendar events this year but the past few weeks have made me realize how much I like being with my family. Yes I can still tell you the make and model of any bike that happens to pass me and I do sometimes drift off into my cycling mind prompting wife to say ‘hello, hello’ on occasion. But I haven’t been angry about missing the races. I check the results in the evenings sometimes and try and figure where I would have come, I look for friends and team mates to see if I need to congratulate anyone. May be I’m just maturing a little, may be I just believe in my self to know I’ll get the remaining 24 points soon, that they can wait a few weeks. Sitting on the floor doing a puzzle with a 3 year is fun, watching a DVD with the wife without being on the turbo isn’t so bad either.

Pat will be racing Hillingdon this weekend, and dating a new girl in the evening. (She cycles a lot too). On paper I should be jealous, but, well I just I hope she IS the one because I’m having trouble remembering all their names.

3rd Round of Hillingdon Winter Series

2007-12-20T08:38:00.000-08:00

I didn't make it to the 3rd race of the Hillingdon Winter Series last week, but Patrick was there hoping to improve on his position from the week before (he was last).

And despite the chaffin' cold, improve he did, finishing strongly in the main bunch of what was a fast race by all accounts. At this rate he will be as strong as he was before his broken knee and should be finishing in the points early next year.

Pictures of Saturday 8th

2007-12-10T04:25:00.000-08:00

Early days, hanging at the back trying to get warm

Pat looking strong/chubby depending on who you ask.

Pat working up the hill, perhaps too much too soon?

Making a move

Paul Delahunty pushes hard.

Pat and new friend Richard

I try and split the bunch

Pat and Richard having a race of their own, together till the end.

Finally I break the group, dropping the other 2/3 Cats.

Only fools and cyclists

2007-12-09T23:58:00.001-08:00

"Surely your not going to race in this? Shireen asks me over the noise of the rain lashing against the windows.
"Pat has already left to pick me up" I reply.

How can I explain my willingness to race my bike in weather conditions most people wouldn't put the bin out in. I can't really. It is foolish but I love racing and I'll take every opportunity to do it. In all honestly if I wasn't racing I'd be going for a training ride anyway which is even harder to explain.

Pat and I weren't the only people blind to the conditions, it was a pretty good field considering.

It was always going a bit of a war of attrition. I struggled for the first few laps, mainly with the cold. It was obvious to me on the warm up lap that I needed another layer on, the wind and rain going down the back straight cutting through me to the bone. Unfortunatly Pat's car was locked with my base layer inside when I returned after the intial lap.

Pat seemed to be going strong for the first few laps, up near the front. Not bad for someone returning from a broken knee. I moved up through the field aware that even the smallest gap could be decisive. Myself and a few others forced the pace now and again until the pack had split in two. I made a few more efforts to split the group further but to no avail. Then a the pack did split, I was a number of places of the front and despite seeeing the move believed it would closed as all others had been. I wanted to conserve my energy and sprinting the 50m didn't seem attractive.

It was a bad decision, by the time myself and 9 others realised the gap was too big to be closed. Three of us kept trying to split the group, doing most of the work down the back straight. But despite the spray from the rear wheels, everyone was being very good at sticking to the wheel in front.

We rode past Pat and an Imperial Team rider a couple of times. They seemed to be enjoying the ride together, having paid the price for losing contact with the bunch.

Eventually with 4 laps to go, Paul Delahuntly open a gap, I pushed too and joined him. We were joined by another. It was fine by me because they were both 1st Cats so wouldn't effect my BC points. The other 2/3 Cats had been dropped, that is all I wanted to achieve. I sat up for the sprint as Paul had done a large amount of work through out the race and deserved the placing.

I was 11th overall, unfortunately there were 3 2/3 Cats in the first group, so I was only 4th in the 2/3 Cat race. I gained just 6 points, but 16 points from 2 races ain't bad and I'm still on target for 2nd Cat in 3 or so races.

Look at me!

2007-12-05T05:01:00.001-08:00

One of the good things about racing Hillingdon is the great pictures Dennis at DGS photography takes.

Making an early break (too early)

Keeping the break alive

Back in the bunch

Racing to glory.

For once in my life

2007-12-05T00:48:00.000-08:00

For the first time in my life I think I did something to the best of my ability. I won't say potential because I believe I could be better if I had more time to train, but I showed like never before what I was capable of.

It was a windy day at Hillingdon and I spent the first 5 laps or so at the rear of the bunch reminding myself of the cicuit. The head wind down the back straight was enough to slow the peloton down so a few people tried to break but never getting very far. I got in a break with Jason Streather and Bill Butterworth amongst others and genuinely thought we had a chance, but after several laps we were caught. I guess sometimes a group doesn't synergise.

Pat and I had a plan to break on 59 minutes, the race being 1 hour plus 5 laps. I wanted to put the plan into action even though Pat wasn't with me but I was worried I'd done too much work, so I rested in the pack.

While I was holding back in the middle of the bunch three riders went clear.

As the clock rolled on I recovered and found myself in the ideal position going up the hill to make the break.

A 1st Cat went of the front ahead of me, but he was in a different race as far BC points are concerned.

I did nothing dramatic, stayed seated but accelerated, I had a good gap by the crest of the hill and powered down the back straight catching the 1st Cat. I was happy for him to hold my wheel as if I tired he could take a turn.

The gap had grown by the end of the first lap and I'd dropped the 1st Cat. I was on my own, just like at Chertsey. I made sure to power up the hill and ride a steady pace into the wind on the back straight. 3 laps to go and I'm still holding them off, I concentrated on keeping the motor going, no moments of relaxing. 2 laps to go and I'm begining to believe. My pace on the back straight had dropped a little but I was stilling holdong off the bunch. 1 lap to go and I knew I'd made, just don't relax too much. Up the hill at full power and across the line, I was a winner in my Cat and 4th overall.

I'd done it in style.

Hillingdon Winter Series.

2007-12-05T00:45:00.000-08:00

It is hard to believe it but the Hillingdon winter series is here again.

All three members of Shavedlegs are due to make an appearance. Simon in the 4th Cat race will be chasing some more BC points as he edges to 3rd Cat. Pat and I will try and work together in the 2/3 Cat race which goes off along with the E/1's.

Not the one

2007-12-03T10:58:00.000-08:00

It turns out I won't be needing to pop to Ozwald Boatang for a new suit, there is to be no summer wedding. Pat had split with his girlfriend of a year or so. She wasn't the one as everyone thought. He has got a new Colnago that he picked up cheap on holiday though which is a good result.

The pins have been taken out his knee too so he is clear to train again.

The Team is back together

2007-12-03T10:28:00.000-08:00

I was beginning to think it would never happen, but all three Shavedlegs members were present at MOD Chertsey race.

Simon was already off in the 4th Cat race when Pat and I arrived. He looked very happy sitting in the bunch near the front staying out of trouble. As so often happens at Chertsey it came down to a sprint finish, we Simon proving he has the power snatching 8th and his first BC points. A few more placings and he'll make 3rd Cat.

The 3rd Cat race saw a few breaks go off but nothing came to much. I don't like sprints, not because I'm rubbish at them but because there aways seems to be a crash. It had been decided that I would try a break of my own at some point. With 5 laps to go (10 miles) Pat suggested now was the time, I was convinced. Upon entering the hilly 'snake' section a gap opened before me and I thought what the hell. I dropped a cog and went. I open a good gap and extended it on the second lap, but I'd done too much too soon, and the pack were looking animated.

I was caught with a lap to go. It came down to the predicted sprint and a muppet swerved in front of me and then I narrowly missed a rider who appeared to be stationary. Thought sod it and relaxed to finish in the middle of the bunch. Pat was few places behind me, but a good confident ride since he is coming back from his knee surgery.

Moved to London, had a baby.

2007-06-21T04:37:00.000-07:00

I know there has been a huge gap since the last post but I've moved to London and had a son in the mean time.

The new job gives me a good commute on the fixed so the training fits into the day nicely. Plus there is a gym should I feel fresh enough at lunch time.

I haven't made it to any races yet, but on the Cycling Plus forum I've clocked up the fastest time for 3 laps of Richmond Park. This has encouraged me to give Time Trialing a whirl. I've bought some aerobars of ebay and hopefully I get to have a go around the park this weekend. It will be interesting to see if they make much of an improvement.

Siegfried Charles Kirk (well boys names are hard to choose)

Me, Hannah and Ziggy back in London.

Hannah on her Islabike (she wants pedals for Christmas).

Me, on a bike, in a race. Who'd a thought it?

2007-03-22T08:41:00.000-07:00

Tracked down the race report and two photos of me from the Beyond MTB/West Drayton Mountian Bike Club circuits held at Hillingdon Cycle Circuit on March 17.

James Whatling of Team Synergy made a do or die escape from the 86 rider bunch on lap 2 of the first of three Beyond MBC Crits at Hillingdon on March 17.
He never got more than 40 seconds away from the bunch and it took until halfway through the race that he was caught by the two riders that made up the final three; Erick Rowsell (Team Corridori) and Jerome Walters (Sigma Sport).
The three worked well and at times on the windy day looked likely to get brought back by the wind swept and fragmenting bunch.
The three up sprint was won by Rowsell; with Walters and Whatling following in.
Two more escaped with 5 laps to complete Tomas Chmelewski of the promoting club and Andrew Bye (Kingston Wheelers). Paul Crook also of Beyond led in the bunch.

The Novice race was won by Joshua Scott.
30 ERICK ROWSALL TEAM CORRIDORI 2J 1 01:11:56
56 JEROME WALTERS SIGMA SPORT 3 2 st
9 JAMES WHATLING TEAM SYNERGY 2 3 st
73 ANDREW BYE KINGSTON WHEELERS 2 4 01:12:21
68 KAZEK RYS BEYOND MBC 2 5 st
46 PAUL CROOK BEYOND MBC 2 6 01:12:33
76 PAUL DELAHUNTY LONDON DYNAMO 2 7 ST
87 BEN WHITE FINCHLEY RT 3 8 ST
66 GEOFF WILLIAMS PYTHON RT 3 9 ST
33 MICK HILL TEAM QUEST 2 10 ST
34 GIANLUCA CAPELLO PEARSONS CYCLES 2 11 ST
1 ROGER WOODFORD AWCYCLES/GIANT 3 12 ST
11 DAVID HUTCHSON CHELTENHAM 2 13 ST
61 DAVID GAYLER KENTON RC 3 14 ST
74 ALAN SHERMAN KINGSTON WHEELERS 3 15 ST
43 HUGO ROBINS ECONOMIC ENERGY 3 16 ST
79 JIM KENT LONDON DYNAMO 3 17 ST
82 RUDIE MARIAS TEAM DEVER 2 18 ST
36 SEAN BRENNAN TEAM SYNERGY 2 19 ST
15 SHAUN REED BAYEUX LANDSCAPES 3 20 ST
5 MATTHEW SLATOR 53-12 MULTISPORTS 3 21 ST
86 NAT SPURLING FINSBURY PARK C 2 22 ST
72 MIKE BISSON DHCYCLESPORT.CO.UK 2 23 ST
24 PETER JONES HILLINGDON CC 2 24 ST
64 GAVIN SMITH TEAM QUEST 2 25 ST
60 DAVID PHILLIPS EAGLE RC 4 26 ST
37 ROBERT STIMPSON PYTHON RT 3 27 ST
55 ANDY FOWKES THAMES VELO 3 28 ST
3 JOHN HEATON-ARMSTRONG FIT FOR 3 29 ST
35 BEN PRESTON EAGLE RC 3 30 ST
59 STEVE SAUNDERS KINGSTON WHEELERS 3 31 ST
2 PAUL WILLIAMS BEYOND MBC 3 32 ST
18 ANDREW STRONGE LONDON DYNAMO 2 33 ST
51 KEITH KNIGHT ADDISCOMBE CC 3 34 ST
63 ALEX KIRK SHAVEDLEGS.CO.UK 3 35 ST
75 LUKE MERRILEES BEYOND MBC 3J 36 ST
38 PHIL STARR PYTHON RT 3 37 ST
78 JAMES LEACH TWICKENHAM CC 2 38 ST
39 MATT OSBORN TEAM QUEST 3 39 ST
28 STEVE GOLLA HIGH WYCOMBE CC 2 40 ST

Race news.

2007-03-21T03:21:00.000-07:00

Patrick will be pleased to see I'm back on to the subject cycling. I did my first race of the year, in the new kit no less.
Patrick had briefed me very well the night before, including vital information on wind the speed and direction (Westerly so I should hug the rightside of track) and when to make my solo break.
I got a little lost on the way to the track but if I didn't cut it fine then I just wouldn't be me. In the dressing room the conversation was along the lines of 'it's a westerly to day', 'stick to the right of the track and a break will be easy'.
Thanks to putting in an extra warm up lap I started right at the back and with the first three laps a blur at an average of 49kmph, I got to the middle of the bunch and stayed there. As the pace fell to a more manageable 42kmph I fought to get near the front but with about a 100 riders on the track I just couldn't find a gap. It got a bit hairy at times with people struggling to stay on the pace. The field split into 3 or 4 bunches, with effort I breached the gap from the second pack to join the leaders.
But I never made the front, six riders made a break, leaving the rest to sprint for 4 places. I never really contested the sprint due largely to a rider cutting across my line as I tried to move up.
All in all it was frustrating but I ultimately I think I need for race experience.

Not to be out done

2007-03-21T03:15:00.000-07:00

Simon in his new Shavedlegs kit.

In my bedroom wearing Lycra

2007-03-21T02:53:00.000-07:00

I know it isn't up to naughty celebrity video standards, but here is me in my bedroom wearing Lyrca. It is of course the fabulous new Shavedlegs team kit which will get an outing at Hillingdon very shortly.
Looking back I could have moved the hoover out of shot and may be stood next to a bike.

Just in case we didn't believe him

2007-03-15T08:27:00.000-07:00

Just in case we didn't believe the extend of Pat's injuries here is an X-ray of his knee post Op. Naturally he is already talking about his return to competitive cycling in the next few months and complaining about how his muscles are wasting away.
Fortuneately for Pat, 'the one' has a downstairs toilet so he hasn't had accidents of that nature. She is looking after him very well, and Simon has posted him a bumper bag of cycling DVDs.
I just wish his Colnago Extreme C was in my size.

Why do people go skiing?

2007-02-14T07:08:00.000-08:00

Well the kit hasn't arrived yet because the bank failed to do the money transfer. It should arrive tomorrow which leaves a days lee way for the weekend. However the Shavedlegs.co.uk team will not be out in force as Pat has broke his knee while skiing and needs surgery. It isn't first time either, I'm not sure why he books a whole week skiing, a long weekend should be enough, two days skiing to collect whichever injury is in fashion, and one day to see the doctor and fly home.
So it is just me racing this weekend, but I hope to get in a break or at least feature in the final sprint to make sure the kit features in as many photos as possible.

First race coming up.

2007-02-14T07:00:00.000-08:00

It is the last race of the Hillingdon Winter Series this weekend and fingers crossed not only will I racing (my first race of the year)I will be doing so in the Shavedlegs.co.uk kit. The rest of the club should be there too, so for the first time we can really look like a team.
My training has been patchy at best recently, late nights/early mornings because of H, being one of the problems. As well as my motivation problems which haven't been helped by woeful performances when I have trained. I used to sustain a good 40kph for part of the circuit with reletaive ease, the other night I struggled to get up to 40kph yet alone sustain it for a meaningful distance.
I blamed the cold damp air but still worry my VO2 max isn't what it was before Christmas and my week with flu.

Page 3 Stunners

2007-02-07T02:13:00.000-08:00

The team has made the papers, thanks mainly to Patrick and his charity work, but he doesn't like to talk about it.

Motivation

2007-02-07T01:52:00.000-08:00

For the first time since I can remember I feel unmotivated to get on the bike and pedal into the distance. I don't know if it is because I haven't got a race lined up for the near future or just a continuation of my growing apathy towards life. The Shavedlegs shop still isn't open for business and I am now frustrated as with a new baby on the way borrowing money and risking it all on a new venture isn't wise. It looks like the shop will now not open until 2008!
Why is every thing made so difficult, if agents, landlords and solicitors could pull their socks up and process a simple lease in less than 6 months I'd have been up and running long before Christmas. Now I have to pull the plug and watch my money drain away.
LloydsTSB haven't been much help either, despite having used telephone banking the previous day I am told I will have to re-register (a 4 day process) as for some reason unknown to them I no longer have that facility on my account. Actually what they say is I do have that facility on my account but it doesn't work. That's the best answer I got after 17 calls to various numbers over three days. Oh and they may be putting more business managers in their branches but you cannot ring a branch or your business manager direct, you have to ring the call centre. What's the point. I'm moving the account to Natwest asap.

Rant over, I feel much better and am looking forward to a ride tonight.

Snot

2007-01-26T06:02:00.000-08:00

No post for a while I know, that's because I've been ill and I haven't got internet access at home, or a computer for that matter.

My two year old H was ill on Friday and thanks to cuddling her through the night I woke up more ill than her. Now I'm recovered and my wife S has come down with it. So I've now spent 7 days of the bike and figure it will be a few more yet until I'm fully recovered.

On the plus side I accidentally ate a bit of my own snot this morning and I quite liked it.

The team kit is due to arrive on the 7th of Febuary.

Pat in lycra!

2007-01-12T05:22:00.000-08:00

Pat at Hillingdon clocking up the points! Sometimes looking like he is having fun, sometimes looking every one of his 38 years.

Even S says so.

2007-01-09T03:42:00.000-08:00

I thought I had been quite restrained over the Christmas period. Well I had compared with my colleagues. But last night even S said I had developed a bit of a pot! and this from someone who has been complaining about my skinniness for years.

So I put in extra effort on my hilly training route last night despite the driving wind and rain. I'd like say I enjoyed it but it was one of those rides when you wonder you bother.

One track minds the pair of them.

2007-01-09T03:31:00.000-08:00

What do you think Pat has been doing after displaying such fine form so far this year. Tuning his skills perhaps? No he popped off to Paris for some romantic fine dining with his girlfriend. Hardly the display of dedication to his sport we have come to expect from the man. He didn't even take his bike!
I haven't had a chance to check whether 'the one' has come back with a rock the price of a Colnago on her finger, but I reckon there will be bells ringing this summer or I'll eat my helmet.

Simon flew to New York with his wife and managed to get admitted to hospital with pancreatitis thanks to his complete over indulgence throughout the Christmas break. Who knows when he will be back on his bike.

What a team eh?

Patrick goes from strength to strength

2007-01-09T03:09:00.000-08:00

Patrick has now clocked up 12 points in the Hillingdon Winter Series, and is currently third in the South East still with a good few races to go. He is still racing in the 4th Cats race but you can only do well in the field your in so it is no less an achievement. If he scores an outright victory then he will automatically move up to the main race. All he needs to do is be in the break or hope there isn't one so he can use the sprinting skills he has already displayed, to devastating effect.

Pictures will follow when he gets round to e-mailing them to me.

First training ride of the new year

2007-01-04T05:48:00.000-08:00

I eventually managed to get out on the bike last night at about 11pm. In November I started the strength building period of my training. I have been using a fixed bike and doing 3 laps (each 30mins)of a hilly circuit.

It felt a little harder last night than before Christmas, but I think that is to expected as I leapt back in where I left off before the holidays.

It was driving rain and very windy (ideal for strength training), but I enjoyed being back on the bike and I'm now looking forward to getting some racing.

The new kit design

2007-01-03T07:43:00.000-08:00

The new Shavedlegs.co.uk team kit design is finished. Hopefully it will arrive in 5 weeks, in the nick of time for the team to be seen at the Imperial Winter Series in Hillingdon.

Roll on 2007.

2007-01-01T16:25:00.000-08:00

I have very high hopes for 2007.

Patrick who has been languishing in the 4th Cats for far too long has finally won enough points to move up to 3rds with me. He did it at the Imperial Winter Series just a couple of days ago, by winning the sprint finish. This means for the first time we can enter the same races and actually work together as team, albeit only a team of two as yet.

While we are on the subject of Patrick, he has also managed to pull a girl, which seems to have long term possibilites. I'm not writing my speech just yet but sharpening pencil just in case.

Also my wife is expecting our second child in June. So no matter what happens with my racing I'm a winner and I'm going to have a great summer. I'm even looking forward to the sleepless nights.

Introduction

2006-12-22T05:42:00.000-08:00

Welcome to the Team Shavedlegs blog. From the 1st of January you will be able to follow the trial and tribulations of this auspicious three man cycling team. Read how they struggle to balance thier personal life with training and constantly struggle to turn up at races on time.