Lancaster CC Hill Climb 2009

tower
Top of Climb from Jubilee Tower – gives great views over Morecambe Bay

After the wind of the previous day, conditions were much better, and a  light tailwind from the sea was very welcome after yesterdays headwind torture. It was a longer climb than previous day, about 1.75 miles of varying gradient, total height gain 183m. Steepest at the bottom (perhaps 14%) it becomes shallower at the top, with 2 sections of short downhill. Despite the gradient at the start, I sat down for virtually all the climb. Climbing in the saddle is a good way to make sure you don’t get carried away tackling the steep section at the bottom. I ride most  hill climbs by looking at the time. I have a rough idea of time the race will take and gauge my efforts by that. For example, with 4 minutes on the clock, I knew I had about 3 mins left to up the effort for the final section. On this kind of climb it is essential to have something in reserve, as you can really pick up speed and gain momentum on the flatter / downhill sections at the top (see pacing hill climbs). It’s not often  you can finish a hill climb in your 53 12 sprinting at 30mph. But, it makes for a picturesque finish by the Tower on the top of Quernmore.

At the top

At the top

I felt good during the climb and finished in 7.13 which took 10 seconds off Ben Greenwood’s course record from 2003. Average speed of just under 15 mph. It was great fun, at least when you get to the top and forget the pain of the climb. The hairpin descent was pretty tricky though – with a combination of carbon rims and ordinary brake blocks.

troughbowland

By the way, even if you don’t like the idea of racing, the Trough of Bowland / Quernmore is a very beautiful place for cycling. From the top you get a great view of Morecambe Bay or the Forest and moors inland. It is quite hilly, but, apart from the odd motorbike

Thanks to Alistair Hodge and Lancaster CC for organising the event.

Picture top: Jubilee Tower photo by Coradia 1000

Picture middle www.sportsunday.co.uk
Photo bottom: John Thurm

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2 Responses to Lancaster CC Hill Climb 2009

  1. Nic October 6, 2009 at 6:09 pm #

    Stunning performance! Just over 7 minutes for that climb is nothing less than spectacular.

    Nic

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