Monday, 28 January 2013

Mud and Sludge on Saturday's ride out

A few new faces joined us for our ride out on Saturday, taking the total number of riders to 18. The Col de Coldharbour is definitely getting more manageable for all our riders which must mean we are getting fitter!


The muddy section at the top of the lane proved quite a challenge but we didn't lose any shoes so all those games of sardines are obviously paying off.  The sheep field was impassable so we practised hill climbing from the gate back  up the steep track before retracing our route to Westwood.  Great riding from everyone, Hope and Ashley did particularly well. Lots of smiles on a fabulous sunny morning, hope you have already cleaned your bikes ready for next week.

Next week Saturday 2nd February:

Go-ride at Stocks Green - sign on 1.45pm, finish 3pm
Youth ride - 9.30am - road bikes only  - contact me for details.

Tuesday, 22 January 2013

Signed Shirt Arrives for KVK

Although the warm and sunny days of August are long forgotten now, I got a reminder of our great summer one day last week when I was at Cyclopark.  The shirt signed by members of the Paralympic Cycling team that we won for our Go-ride Games event had arrived!

Signed by Shaun McKeown, Neil Fachie, Helen Scott, Mark Colbourne, Jody Cundy, Crystal Lane, Jon Butterworth, Rachel Morris & Anthony Kappes
The framed shirt is going to be mounted in the cafe at Cyclopark until our clubhouse is built!!




Monday, 14 January 2013

Saturday 12th January - Back on the saddle

Thirteen hardy riders braved the icy temperatures for our first coached session of the year. The session focussed on stopping and pace, riders had plenty of opportunities to practise stopping and starting without putting their feet down.  We also practised continuous riding on a figure of eight circuit where the objective was to negotiate other riders without stopping,just adjusting speed.  This was a challenging activity requiring both skill and bravery but the KVK made it look simple.  Great riding from everybody in particular Sam and Max who worked hard to improve their skills.  We finished off with some sumo games before rushing off to warm up.

We have two young volunteers this term, Jacob, who has recently completed a course with British Cycling and Victoria who is helping out as part of her Duke of Edinburgh Award, it is great to have them on board, I'm sure they will enjoy working with us.

Next coached session: Saturday 19th January 1.45pm
Youth ride - 9.30am contact me

Thursday, 10 January 2013

Happy New Year Kent Velo Kids

Only two days to go until we start KVK 2013.  I am still working on the grand plan of dates but here's a flavour of what's in store:


Go-ride coaching sessions at Stocks Green
The bread and butter of the club, this is where our young riders learn new skills and practise existing ones to make them top class bike handlers.  Skills and games with an element of competition.

Go ride racing sessions at Stocks Green
This year we will be running regular sessions focussed on racing and competition, some of these will be open to riders from outside the club.  No special equipment is required to take part. Adult helpers always welcome.

Ride-outs
These are off site rides which are suitable for riders who are developing fitness and have good skills.  They range from 5 - 10 miles and may include some riding on quiet roads.  Adult riders are always welcome.

Youth rides
These are off site rides suitable for road bikes only.  They range from 10 - 20 miles and involve riding on a variety of roads. Adult riders are always welcome.

Events at Cyclopark
John Leitch continues his Power Pack coaching at Cyclopark in 2013.  Our coaches regularly help out and I will keep you informed of sessions and races coming up there.

DATES FOR JANUARY

Saturday 12th January
Go-ride at Stocks Green. 1.45pm sign on, ends 3pm
 
Saturday 19th January
Youth ride - meet 9.30am at Stocks Green
Go-ride at Stocks Green. 1.45pm sign on, ends 3pm
 
Saturday 26th January
Ride out - Ride out - meet 9.30am Westwood
John Leitch's Power Pack at Cyclopark 1- 3pm