Preparation Prevents P... Poor performances.

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BY: Richard Jones

Published: 16th December, 2013

Preparation Prevents P... Poor Performances!

I’m sure we have all been in a situation where we have wished there was a little more forward planning. A prime example of this for me was at round one of the Brass Monkey race were 3.5 hours into the race my cleat bolts snapped in two and left me somewhat stranded. On inspection it was clear they had become rusted and it was only ever time until they were going to snap. So here is my break down of my race week build up.

Monday.
So its Monday of race week and now 6 days until race day now is the time to ensure there is nothing wrong with the bike. Brake pads, worn out chains or seized bearings are all things worth checking. Leave it much later and your running the risk of not getting the parts in time.


I’m sure we all do our home mechanics like this.

For the duration of the week consider this quote a wise man once said to me. “Why stand when you can sit and why sit when you can lay.”

Wednesday
Roll on Wednesday and at this point your beginning to think about your physical preparation, depending on whether your targeting the race or just planning on participating will dictate just how much rest is required. However I personally find that I have to keep ticking over because if I stop riding my legs feel stiff.

Friday.
Friday is a prime time to clean the race bike. Cleaning the bike isn’t just about making it look tarty (however that is important too!), it’s also your last chance to check for any issues. To reapply some chain lube and check tyre pressures. I guess if you’re the kind of person that gets caught up in tyre swapping then this would also be the time to do that.

As mentioned already it’s also advisable to check things such as your cleats, the bolts can often work themselves loose or you may have even lost one of the screws.

Saturday.
Saturday will soon come around and so there is 24 hours to go. I find it’s important to eat well and drink plenty so you’re really well hydrated.

Each rider will usually have there own race prep ride however most will do a shorter ride with some short yet very sharp efforts. This helps to prepare the body for the next days thrashing. If you’re lucky enough to be close to the racecourse then a practice lap is a great opportunity to get to know the course.

Its then time to check the weather and pack your race clothes, make up your bottles and pack anything else you may require to save you rushing the morning.

I also like to make up some food so that once I am finished racing I can tuck into something I like rather than being stuck with the burger van option. Also make sure you have plenty of drinks spare for the drive home.

Most importantly leave plenty of time to sit down in the evening and rest. As much as it’s tempting to do so it’s probably not advisable to hit the vodka, mojitos or desperados.

Race day.