Saturday 28th September - Go Ride Kingdom - Good to be Back

It seems like a while since we've been at Kingdom and it was great to see the venue thriving and the site and surrounding roads busy with runner and bike riders, all enjoying being outside on a beautiful autumn morning.

Having said that, we did get off to a slightly slow start; everyone's journey to Kingdom had been delayed by the riders competing in the Hever Triathlon.  I'm really not sure about riding your bike in a swimsuit, but it takes all sorts I guess ;-)

Of course we do have quite a few KVK's taking part in the event; Fin, Zach, Ella, Albert and Betsy (and maybe a few more? Do let me know)

Down at the natural velodrome, Coach Damian giving the riders a de-briefing after our Trains and Stations drill

Tackling corners on a less than ideal surface.

We spent the first part of the session, riding the Start Loop and trying to get the riders dialled in to the surface conditions.  It's been dry and smooth for a long time now at Stocks Green, so the path at Kingdom with it's damp, slightly loose rough surface heightened the need for some good cornering technique.  We practised a lot, which is basically how you get better.

When the riders had finally had enough of that (despite there still being room for improvement ;-)), we headed down to the natural velodrome in small groups.  Once again the surface conditions together with the gradient took a few people by surprise and there were a couple of unscheduled dismounts.

After a quick biscuit break, we divided the riders into small groups and set about getting to grips with Trains and Stations.  This is a tricky drill, once again there is a lot think about, not just riding your bike.

It was good to see the riders getting to grips with working as a team, with lots of good communication going on.

We finished off with Back to Front efforts in teams to the top of Heart Break Hill.  It was a tough session and gives us plenty to work on in the coming weeks.  Well done to everyone who persevered.

Meanwhile, in a field near Milton Keynes.............Ivo re-fuelling after racing cross