Sundrive Track League

Harrybelafonte · 11-04-2014 10:28am #1

Ok guys and gals, the Sundrive Track League is starting this year on the last Wednesday of April (April 30). The following link is very useful as it includes what the different races for each Wednesday are for each group:

http://www.trackcycling.ie/?tribe_events=sstleague1

If you need any of the race types explained, I'm sure one of the trackies will explain it. Usually asked about the "Unknown" though, this is a race where we are not told how many laps we have, then bell is rung for last lap (Or maybe numbers are shown on the board, I can't bloody remember now).

If you want to race, you HAVE to be accredited and have a CI licence. Get there early and get your warm up in, cos it's hell for leather from the get-go.

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=4FukVGQomEo

eeeee · 11-04-2014 10:32am

Deadly. I don't think I have enough done to do the summer league but I'd love to come and help out.

Harrybelafonte · 11-04-2014 10:38am

gadetra wrote: »

Deadly. I don't think I have enough done to do the summer league but I'd love to come and help out.

You're not going to have enough done NOT doing the league either. This racing is regarded by most of us as training for the bigger events like the Nationals etc. You really should do it, they already have enough helpers. You'll come on leaps and bounds doing it.

eeeee · 11-04-2014 10:48am

Well twist my arm!! Someone has to come last right? :pac:

Harrybelafonte · 11-04-2014 10:56am

gadetra wrote: »

Well twist my arm!! Someone has to come last right? :pac:

A bit more PMA needed there

RockWerchter · 11-04-2014 11:27am

Delighted I'll get to do both leagues this year, definitely the best league racing around.

Beasty · 11-04-2014 11:27am

gadetra wrote: »

Well twist my arm!! Someone has to come last right? :pac:

Seriously - give it a go - you will probably surprise yourself. There are different handicap groups but even then there is a wide range of abilities. Last year there were sufficient women to run largely women's only races at the "Group C" level and it seemed to work out very well.

I'm not going to be racing for a while but as soon as they let me drive I'd like to come down a few nights to help out (and have a natter!!)

Harrybelafonte · 11-04-2014 12:37pm

Beasty wrote: »

Seriously - give it a go - you will probably surprise yourself. There are different handicap groups but even then there is a wide range of abilities. Last year there were sufficient women to run largely women's only races at the "Group C" level and it seemed to work out very well.

I'm not going to be racing for a while but as soon as they let me drive I'd like to come down a few nights to help out (and have a natter!!)

That goes for everyone I'd say. If you've ever wanted to get into racing, these nights are one of the best ways to start.

You get to sit around and talk sh!t after every race and there's rarely any shouting and lots of that other stuff that goes on on the road.

Harrybelafonte · 11-04-2014 3:59pm

Another one to whet appetites

https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=LZlf0wvtQrk

Doc07 · 11-04-2014 8:21pm

I live near Sundrive. What time do the races run until. Are spectators/nosy Parkers welcome?

Harrybelafonte · 11-04-2014 8:24pm

Doc07 wrote: »

I live near Sundrive. What time do the races run until. Are spectators/nosy Parkers welcome?

Usually 9pm at latest. Always welcome. You just need to be really careful crossing the track into the green or you can watch from outside.

Doc07 · 11-04-2014 8:31pm

Harrybelafonte wrote: »

Usually 9pm at latest. Always welcome. You just need to be really careful crossing the track into the green or you can watch from outside.

Thanks. Will pop down so and maybe bring the little lad and see if I can get him(or me) inspired.

treborm · 11-04-2014 9:04pm

Looking forward to it better get training

changepartners · 13-04-2014 5:17pm

Guys, would this be a good league to do for a road race novice? I've got a lot of XC racing experience, train a lot but lack a bit of road race confidence. Would a few of these help get me up to speed for open road races or is it a different kettle of fish entirely?

Beasty · 13-04-2014 5:22pm

changepartners wrote: »

Guys, would this be a good league to do for a road race novice? I've got a lot of XC racing experience, train a lot but lack a bit of road race confidence. Would a few of these help get me up to speed for open road races or is it a different kettle of fish entirely?

You must gain accreditation first. Although it's good experience for riding in groups and certain skills such as sprinting qnd racing shorter distances at a generally higher speed, road races are much longer and require a slightly different approach. Having said that most "trackies" tend to supplement their training with road racing

changepartners · 13-04-2014 5:48pm

Thanks Beasty, I think it might make sense just to jump in to the open races again in a week or two! Tons more training done for it this year just need to get over the mental hump.

kumate_champ07 · 13-04-2014 9:18pm

changepartners wrote: »

Guys, would this be a good league to do for a road race novice? I've got a lot of XC racing experience, train a lot but lack a bit of road race confidence. Would a few of these help get me up to speed for open road races or is it a different kettle of fish entirely?

after youve done accreditation and a couple of tranining sessions you'll have no problems, you'll be put in the C group which is the most exciting group to be in. anyone too strong will be moved up to B

I had very little training done when I started in the C's, the race fitness comes quick. the only benefit towards road cycling would be sprint technique and bike handling/awareness skills.

you can chat to other riders for tips during the wednesday league nights, more experienced riders are always happy to give advice

colm_gti · 13-04-2014 9:27pm

I recently took up track cycling (albeit in Herne Hill) when I moved to London, got my training and race accreditations asap and have been racing since mid March.

It's quite a bit different to road, I was A3 on the road last year and struggled in the B cat at open track races (no C cat). I'm not sure if it was a case of being tactically inept, a bit more unfit than I was last year, undergeared, or not able to spin a high cadence (or all four).

HHV track league started last week, though I only made it up this week, started out in the C cat and was much more competitive, managed 2nd in the devil and 4th or 5th in the other races.

My cadence is improving, and I don't doubt it'll stand to me when I try my hand at a few 4th cat road races this season, though I aim to focus more on track as it makes more sense from a logistical point of view (track is close to home and work).

Harrybelafonte · 22-04-2014 6:46am

A reminder toget accreditation done ASAP to get the most out of the races.

bogmanfan · 23-04-2014 10:19am

Harrybelafonte wrote: »

A reminder toget accreditation done ASAP to get the most out of the races.

When is the next accreditation session for first-timers? The one this Saturday seems to be second stage only (intro to racing).

Harrybelafonte · 23-04-2014 10:22am

24th May according to this link:

http://www.trackcycling.ie/?tribe_events=intro-to-racing

But mail them and see if they've had to include anymore due to demand.

CramCycle · 23-04-2014 12:08pm

I too will be out, have my multiple cogs as I have no idea what should be using, probably will try a 48x15 to see what happens (training was on a 48x16 and I felt there was room to push further). How many from here will be in the C cat?

CramCycle · 23-04-2014 12:10pm

Follow up question, done my accreditation and training, they all seemed happy but I didn't receive the pink slip that people have mentioned (or is that just an expression). I will be out again on Saturday morning if I can get out of the house but should I ask about it?

RockWerchter · 23-04-2014 12:14pm

Not sure about the pink slip but as long as you're on the list of accredited riders you're good to go. Raced all last year, was never given a pink slip, seen them once or twice always wondered what they were.

On the gear, I'd bring a 14 too, a bit too big if it's very windy, otherwise it's perfect for most nights, in my opinion anyway.

Beasty · 23-04-2014 12:29pm

CramCycle wrote: »

How many from here will be in the C cat?

Have made representations and can provide plenty of medical backup but suspect it may fall on deaf ears.....

eeeee · 23-04-2014 12:48pm

CramCycle wrote: »

How many from here will be in the C cat?

Me anyway.
Does anyone know what the gearing is on the rental bikes? That's what I'll be on. I have decided to call the one I usually rent out Geoffry. I think it'll make us faster

CramCycle · 23-04-2014 1:11pm

gadetra wrote: »

Does anyone know what the gearing is on the rental bikes?

49x16 is what is meant to be on all the rentals

Harrybelafonte · 23-04-2014 2:40pm

CramCycle wrote: »

49x16 is what is meant to be on all the rentals

I'd say it takes awhile to find the gear you like, but being able to mess with gears and fit is the main reason that people eventually buy their own.

If you've been using a specific rental bike in training and are happy with it, make sure you get there early on Wednesday and grab it before anyone else can. You'd rather not spend your first race trying to get the fit right.

eeeee · 23-04-2014 4:31pm

Harrybelafonte wrote: »

I'd say it takes awhile to find the gear you like, but being able to mess with gears and fit is the main reason that people eventually buy their own.

If you've been using a specific rental bike in training and are happy with it, make sure you get there early on Wednesday and grab it before anyone else can. You'd rather not spend your first race trying to get the fit right.

Yup as soon as funds allow I shall be getting my own one. Until then me and Geoffrey shall do our best

Harrybelafonte · 23-04-2014 4:34pm

kumate_champ07 · 24-04-2014 2:46pm

just saw the league starts next wednesday!! Ive done 3 turbo sessions since September, have felt quick during commutes but they are 3km and not exactly race conditions!

first monday training session starts next week, also race program is up so you can check what the schedule is for each night.

Ive subconsciously left my own prep till the last minute, gorilla legs, little pot belly, garmin asleep, weight lifting shoes collecting dust under my bed. first race is a 12 lap progressive, 4 controlled laps, lap 5 stop at fence, drag myself to track centre, try keep dinner in my belly, make friends with the grass

Harrybelafonte · 28-04-2014 8:15pm

This starts Wednesday. Weather forecast isn't 100% but it's usually always brighter and dryer than the forecast predicts. See whoever there.

C-Shore · 28-04-2014 8:31pm

Harrybelafonte wrote: »

This starts Wednesday. Weather forecast isn't 100% but it's usually always brighter and dryer than the forecast predicts. See whoever there.

I'm heading over.

My first real attempt at a commitment to the track, so I meant to say that if it goes well then I might buy your 56cm frame for the Autumn league if you still have it. Just want to make sure I'm cut out for the track before I buy one.

Harrybelafonte · 28-04-2014 8:37pm

C-Shore wrote: »

I'm heading over.

My first real attempt at a commitment to the track, so I meant to say that if it goes well then I might buy your 56cm frame for the Autumn league if you still have it. Just want to make sure I'm cut out for the track before I buy one.

That's a lot of mights

C-Shore · 28-04-2014 8:57pm

Harrybelafonte wrote: »

That's a lot of mights

Haha well I've been enjoying training so far, just have to see how racing goes.

I've priced up everything so I am committed to it, so as long as I don't get laughed off the track, I will!

Harrybelafonte · 28-04-2014 8:59pm

C-Shore wrote: »

Haha well I've been enjoying training so far, just have to see how racing goes.

I've priced up everything so I am committed to it, so as long as I don't get laughed off the track, I will!

No-one laughs at anyone at track. Just don't do anything dangerously stupid and everyone's friends. We all have to start somewhere. This is year four or five at it for me and things have changed a lot for me in that space of time.

C-Shore · 28-04-2014 9:13pm

Harrybelafonte wrote: »

No-one laughs at anyone at track. Just don't do anything dangerously stupid and everyone's friends. We all have to start somewhere. This is year four or five at it for me and things have changed a lot for me in that space of time.

Cool, I'm really looking forward to it.

Beasty · 28-04-2014 9:32pm

Just to add to Harry's comments - it's a great atmosphere at a Sundrive Track League night. I'm not going to be fit for any racing during the summer league, but will try and head down a couple of evenings just for the craic

eeeee · 28-04-2014 9:45pm

I can't wait for Wednesday, my aim is to not come dead last. I am way too excited about it. :pac: :pac:

CramCycle · 30-04-2014 4:51pm

What's the rules on jerseys, is it club kit only or what is acceptable?

Harrybelafonte · 30-04-2014 4:58pm

Eh, club kit or plain AFAIK?

kumate_champ07 · 30-04-2014 6:06pm

I think it can be anything you want as long as its not floppy (for safety, so it doesnt get caught in anything) and covers your arms(no sleeveless tops)

no livestrong gear allowed tho, only for chain rags!

1 guy from our team used to wear long khaki shorts until he decided to move to lyrca!

Ive worn Japanese club gear a couple of times

its only championships that you have to wear club or plain with no logos.

Im 85% sure on all the above

theres some heavy rain moving north easterly but it might just bypass us, its due on the edge of west Dublin in around 90mins

CramCycle · 30-04-2014 7:55pm

That was awesome,

eeeee · 30-04-2014 10:21pm

Yep that was class. I am officially hopelessly addicted now!

What kit were you in CramCycle? I was the lady in the grey 3/4 length shorts

*waves*

CramCycle · 30-04-2014 10:42pm

gadetra wrote: »

Yep that was class. I am officially hopelessly addicted now!
What kit were you in CramCycle? I was the lady in the grey 3/4 length shorts *waves*

I seen you, I was on the Red fuji in a Tiernans jersey (blue/purple/red). I was in the Cs. I will say hello next week.

eeeee · 30-04-2014 10:47pm

CramCycle wrote: »

I seen you, I was on the Red fuji in a Tiernans jersey (blue/purple/red). I was in the Cs. I will say hello next week.

Ah I had no idea who you were. I'll also say hi next week! :pac:

See you Saturday

Beasty · 30-04-2014 10:47pm

Just a little tip - don't praise it too much as otherwise everyone will start to realise how good it is, encouraging even more to turn up, and risking finishing further down the field!!

Harrybelafonte · 30-04-2014 10:54pm

One of the best nights racing I've been to. Every race was very interesting and a lot of riders have come on leaps and bounds and some newbie surprises. I'm glad to see those from boards who attended enjoyed it, especially considering the dull weather and darkness.

Anyone who started this week will learn plenty in the next few races and you'll find yourself getting more comfortable and stronger as time goes on.

Onwards and upwards.

eeeee · 30-04-2014 10:57pm

Harrybelafonte wrote: »

One of the best nights racing I've been to. Every race was very interesting and a lot of riders have come on leaps and bounds and some newbie surprises. I'm glad to see those from boards who attended enjoyed it, especially considering the dull weather and darkness.

Anyone who started this week will learn plenty in the next few races and you'll find yourself getting more comfortable and stronger as time goes on.

Onwards and upwards.

It was deadly. I also don't know what you look like in real life, so I am not being snobby I just haven't figured out who you are yet! (Or maybe you are enjoying the silence

)

Also the speed of the A's, feicin hell :eek: :eek:

kumate_champ07 · 01-05-2014 3:26am

I was the tall guy with the Look bike.

I only know a few boards people there,
great turn out tonite and luckily the rain stayed away till the end

theres something nice about being in a race just for the fun of it, Ill miss that soon!

kumate_champ07 · 01-05-2014 3:29am

gadetra wrote: »

It was deadly. I also don't know what you look like in real life, so I am not being snobby I just haven't figured out who you are yet! (Or maybe you are enjoying the silence )

Also the speed of the A's, feicin hell :eek: :eek:

he looks like a slimmer version of Tim from Tim&Eric!

Sundrive Track League

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