Ludgershall Crit round 9

After my last race and seeing the repercussions of Danny Tonkin's accident I think the pre-race nerves that build up as you enter Ludgershall village are more about what could happen rather than the riding itself. Today would prove that theory...

Arriving in the parking ground it was evident that this was going to be another big field and the Cat4s would be split into two groups. Hoping to go for a group ride after I tried to get in into the first race but sods law meant I was in the second group which at least meant I had time for a warm up. With a decent warm up turbo trainer (apologies, that was me on the trainer that sounds like a jet engine) it was nearing 9:30 and the time for my race to start. At the start line it was evident that the first race hadn't started their final three laps and I was rapidly cooling down in the bleak conditions. I should have gone and kept warm but talking with the other racers made seemed more convenient. After what felt like an eternity and with early onset of frostbite (there was only two of us in shorts but even the other person wasn't stupid enough to wear mitts) the final bell rang and the first race was over. 

Ludgershall Crit rd7

Just before the series ends I was persuaded to have a go at the Ludgershall race series. I've not got the best track record when it comes to crits although the end game racing in a  road race is far too appealing and this is a necessary evil. 

The course is a purpose built military test track and is essentially an oval with a small chicane leading into the final corner. I was pre-warned of the course conditions with its leaf litter and ruts. When you're imagining the worst its a pleasant surprise to find out it's no worse than some of your local roads.

After signing on it was a bit of a rush (late getting up as usual) to get the bikes ready and have a quick warm up around the track. From the start line there is a small incline which means a small descent on the other side but riding around it appears as if it is unrelenting flat. A couple of laps and its time to grid.