Andy Ross tread the Olympic boards a few days ago, proudly flying the KCC flag.  Here's Andy's story: 

"As I’m part of the Kapiti Cycling Club and currently on holiday in the UK, there was one thing I wanted to do in the back of my head - visit one of the large velodromes dotted across the country, so when my brother in-law and his best friend surprised me with tickets to the Lee Valley Velodrome, situated in the Olympic Park on Stratford, London, one of the 2012 summer Olympic venues itself, I was more than eager to get down and get cycling. 

Seeing as I had prior experience with velodromes, like the one in Cambridge back home, I was most excited to see how my brother in law Matt, and his mate Darren would do, as they too are cycling enthusiasts. 

An early rise and a few hours on the road and we arrived at the venue, of which we had one hour and twenty minutes booked for the three of us along with nine other people. 

The session was split into sections of which are the following:

- A fifteen minute introduction - this included learning the basics and getting used to the bikes, as it has no brakes or gears.

- A half an hour practice - this meant getting used to riding the bikes and warming up before getting into our sprint laps.

- The remaining time of the session was used for our sprint laps - where each individual would do a lap of the track to gain speed, and starting the timer for the second run through, everyone’s finishing scores going up on a leaderboard. 

Each person began their trial, attempting their best time.

As the line dwindled and I was one of the few people left, as per usual I began to feel quite nervous. 

Of course there’s the nervousness of hoping to do well - although there’s the added danger of falling off the bike. 

We were projected to reach high-ish speeds (around 50km/h), and with thin and very responsive bikes with no brakes, the risk to injury or damage was high. 

It was my turn. 

I build up speed down the back straight then high into the far bend, accelerating as hard and fast as I can when the bell goes for the flying lap. It’s amazing how much effort is needed to sprint 250 meters indoors!!  

18.2 seconds later it’s all over - and I want to throw up!! 

And to think the pros go round in 10 seconds!!  An amazing day made more special with the people I shared it with. 

Always recommend a track experience if you can, it really is special and you’ll never forget it. Hope you enjoyed the postcard. Andy

Ed: you forgot your socks Andy ;)

Article added: Friday 11 October 2024