Mel coaxes (or should that be dupes?) her coach Chris and team-mate Jan to join her at a Time Trial in wet West Wales…
It was with some humour that I emailed both Janet Birkmyre and coach, Chris Davis suggesting we all do a random 10 mile Time Trial in the middle of Wales “for fun.” Quite unbelievably, they both agreed! I admit that I sent the suggestion fairly late at night, so their enthusiasm was perhaps aided by a glass of wine?
In true to “tester” form, I attempted to chat about hills, wind and weather by email, whilst some were a little more concerned with the distance. So our epic journey to Wales began and the reality of our quest was soon realised – we were indeed driving a great distance to simply ride for 10 miles, on a dual carriageway and in the rain. I arrived in Resolven and parked next to a pile of coal in the pouring rain. To my disbelief, both Janet and Chris, true to their word, arrived ready for action.
Within three minutes of starting the race, I was absolutely soaked through and not really able to see much in front of me. Thankfully there were two things which saved the day for me; the first was my RaceWare computer mount. Years ago, I spent too much time looking down at my stem for data (just heart rate in those days). I now have data positioned exactly where I need it, so I barely need to take my eyes off the road. Second was a ridiculously bright rear light!
Frustratingly for me, my legs weren’t fully firing and I blew up on the return to the point where I’d even considered pulling into a layby. However, I managed to hang on enough and was delighted to win the Ladies prize in 22.13.
I must say a big thank you to both Chris (who won the Vets prize) and Janet for humouring me and driving absolutely miles to do this race. Despite the weather, it was great fun and many a laugh was had. Though I am quite sure it will be a long while before they agree to join me on another TT epic!
Thanks to Port Talbot Wheelers for organising a great Time Trial and much needed tea and cake afterwards!
