Tommy Godwin Memorial Road Race 2014

I chose this race as a target race due to the fact that it has a 'classic' feel to it. Rural Warwickshire, close to Stratford upon Avon, on an early summer's day with fair weather and deceiving  'bergs' meant for serious but highly enjoyable racing.

I pulled out of the Steve Gutteridge race on the grounds that I dont have the nerve to race on wet roads anymore.
I cannot afford to have another crash and possibly do more damage to myself.
As it is I will have a long stint in the gym to rebuild my shoulder physique after the 2014 season is over.

I shall keep working away on the trainer to keep my fitness up. I have entered a race on the 8th June but again I will be looking for good conditions to race or I will be a non starter.



 

Preparation Week for Steve Gutteridge Memorial RR - LVRC

The effect of long road miles creates huge stress. Short burst training on the following days can help monitor the body's response to the fatigue and the recovery can be tracked. The emphasis is on short burst training - a maximum of 30 minutes. Anymore will just prolong fatigue and demoralise. Repeating the same workout helps the analysis.
My own response is the need for me to have 96 hours before I can get close to performing at my threshold once more. This has repercussions if I intend to do a double header weekends racing. This weekend is just one race over 50 miles on an undulating circuit.

Encouraging trend...

An encouraging trend appearing after analysis of the last few days of race and training data.
Power numbers seem to be returning.
The default gauge is 5 minute peak power which can neatly encapsulate the requirements of road racing - high demand but followed by recoveries.

 

The decline after my crash does appear to be halted and helped by more focussed training.

Swynnerton Race - 3 1/2 laps, 40 miles

This was the first race since my accident at Pinvin and this was a race where it controlled me not the other way around.
I survived - just- but I was hanging on.
An injury has that effect of stripping away the top end and on the lumpy Swynnerton circuit I felt the lack of power.

 The heart rate/power trace shows how hard it was for me.
So, not really back into competitive form but it is progress.
At least my bike looks the part even if I don't!

A decision to race or not

This weekend is the Stone Wheelers circuit race but now to be held on the Swynnerton road circuit.
Physio visit :

 
 After 36 hours, I am getting some neck pain on the other side. The K tape is very tight keeping the damaged AC joint 'step' down.










I gave myself the target of a minimum 60 minute workout.
This is decide if I have have the 'form' to race on Sunday.
 


I shall now see if I can get a good night's rest before making decision.