Third race for 2010 and managed a third PB. The Spring Ballbuster fell ideally for a final prepartion race and had been on the schedule since the coaching from Joe started in October 2009. The last big week of training was nicely rounded off with this race and confidence levels were given a nice little boost.Having previously completed this race twice before I knew what was in store. A 7.9 mile circuit finishing at the top of Box Hill, Dorking that you run once, ride three times and then run again. Best part of 16 miles running and 24 cycling. Not easy miles either. Travelled down on the Friday evening after work. Met up with club mate Jonathan Tyrrell and stayed at a Travel Lodge. Early start to register at 6:30am ahead of the 8am gun. Gosh it was cold. Really couldn't decide what to wear. Opted to wrap up warm for the first run and bike then ditch hat and gloves for final run. Got that bit right. Started strong on the run, perhaps too strong, so pulled over for a pee then rejoined a more sensibly paced group. Then nailed it on the bike. I had my previous PB time of 3:33 in mind, plus also Simon Edye's 2008 time of 3:22 as a target. The conditions were dry so descended confidently, attacked the small inclines on the course then was steady and strong on the big climb. Was in 78th position after the first run, but got myself up to 44th thanks to posting the 19th fastest bike time of the day. Started the final run with the clock showing 2:20. Knew that a 62 minute run would beat that 3:22 target and had 73 minutes to spare for a PB. Managed the final run in just over the hour. It was hard work on the hill.
Really chuffed with myself though. (Full Results)
Going for an easy spin on the bike straight afterwards before doning compression tights and drinking some Rego (recovery drink) really helped the legs get over the Ballbuster punishment.
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