In 8 days I raced 4 road races, in the Basque Country and nearby. On Saturday 8th June at 9am, I did a 128km typically hill Basque Country race in Beasain. There were 4 main climbs, with the 3rd one being the main climb of the race and ranked a 2nd category. I managed to keep with the pace coming into the main climb in the front reduced bunch of about 30, then the pace was too strong for me, so I rode my own pace to the top in a group just off the peloton, instead of going too far into the red, blowing up, and actually getting to the top slower. I worked hard to the finish and came across the line in 26th place.
On 12-13th, I was competing in a double San Antonio memorial event, in Renedo & Villasana – just outside of the Basque Country, both with races in the afternoon, which I much prefer so that we don’t need to get up too early, and can get a proper preparation for the race. The 12th was not good, I had stomach ache, felt generally bad and really struggled with keeping with the pace, and only managed 85km of 125, before pulling out.
However, the following day went a lot better for me. On paper, it was a much harder race with more 2nd category climbs. I was daunted going into the race after the previous day being a bad one for me. Then I was on the back foot again for the start of the race and almost dropped, so I wasn’t too optimistic about any result, then found something from nowhere and when we hit the climbs, I had another gear and moved through the group, then descended really well, so I had confidence for the rest of the race. I then ultimately, missed the break, which I was strong enough for but it got away early on, when I was feeling bad. However, I finished the race towards the front of the bunch.
Just a couple of days later, I raced again in the Basque Country, in Ataun, again with a race in the afternoon. This time, my family came to see my and watch, my Dad, Mum, brother and Auntie all made the trip down, so the pressure was on. The race was hot with lots of climbs, 4 x 2nd category climbs to be exact. I felt really strong for the first climb, then on the second, I was too far back, I was moving my way up the bunch, then I got a double stitch which stopped me from making up any more ground. I found myself off the group, but in a large other group with my mate Josh. We kept slogging it and finished the race.
After these few races, I can see that I am not quite where I want to be, so I am having the next few weeks off from racing, or training through my races, to have a hard training block, and prepare for some big race and stage races to come. Thanks to everyone who supports me, and I hope to get some better form soon.
Elliot Reed Cycling 