Event day
After all of the hours, weeks and months that you’ve dedicated to training, your final preparation will be important in making sure that you’re in the best possible shape on the day. It’s natural to feel excited and nervous all at the same time as the adrenaline starts to build. Prepare as much as you can in advance. This should include a final check over of your bike, spares and kit. Don’t leave anything to chance. Make a plan and write it down so that you know exactly what time you need to get up, eat breakfast, leave for the event and be on the start line. There’s every chance that you’ll feel like you haven’t slept well the night before. Don’t worry, it’s the sleep in the week leading up to the event that is most important.
Stick to your plan. Remember what you have done in training and have confidence in your ability. If there are riders going past you faster than you’re comfortable with, don’t get caught up in the moment and be tempted to push harder than you know you can sustain. Riding a controlled and well paced event will see you finishing stronger and in a better position than hammering out the first hour and then hanging on for dear life. Stay focussed on your nutrition, eating and drinking every 20-30 minutes. Although it could be tempting to try a new gel or energy bar that you may find in your sign-in goody bag, hold this back and test it next time in training first. The most important thing is to stay relaxed, enjoy the experience and don’t forget to smile when you see the photographer!
If anyone needs further help or advice then feel free to contact me on Twitter @cottydale.
Good luck with your form building!
Mike Cotty
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