Bike racing is hard. I’ve always known that, but May really reminded me. It’s been a tough month. I’ve had to remind myself that progress isn’t always measured by podiums. Progress also isn’t captured by perfect stats. Sometimes it’s just about showing up, racing hard, and learning something new, especially when the odds aren’t in your favour. I also had to remember: race results don’t always tell the story of the day.
May’s race calendar was a mixed bag: one finish, two DNFs. But all three races gave me something valuable to take away.
Rewind to April: The CiCLE Classic
Before diving into May, I’ve got to rewind to the final weekend of April: the CiCLE Classic. The CiCLE is huge. I’d raced it twice as a junior, so I knew what was coming, sort of. This time, it covered over 112 miles. There were more sectors. For the first time in my racing of it, it was dry!
My job on the day was to work for teammate Alex Ball. He’s a great guy and in good form. My role was to protect him and position him through the first half of the race. I managed to get onto the front of the start line, this was a feat in itself. We then rolled out through the packed crowd in Oakham on a bright sunny day, what an incredible feeling.
I managed to stay at the front on the laps through Oakham. I helped set pace early and even contested an early sprint. I finished second over the line. Then it was head down and into work mode.
My key task was to lead Alex into the sectors, keeping us both safe and up front. There was a vital descent into a narrow farm road where our DS had told us that positioning was everything. I hit the front at 70+ km/h. I flew down the descent and headed up the kicker that followed. Then, I went into the left-hand corner and nailed it. I was second wheel and led us through perfectly. Alex was right on my wheel. Just as requested.
I stayed in the mix until around 130km, at which point the race blew apart. Alex was still in the front group, and I’d done my job. On the third pass through the feed zone, I climbed off. Not ideal to DNF, but this time, it made total sense. Alex was still in contention until a puncture 20km from the finish, so unlucky.
Timmy James Memorial Grand Prix
This race meant a lot. Held in memory of Timmy James, a brilliant young cyclist who passed far too soon. The course suited me: flat(ish), windy, and punchy. Classic British spring racing. The pace was relentless, averaging around 45km/h over 150km.
I rode smart, chilling at the back at times, then moving up when it counted. With 10km to go, a group of 8–9 riders got away. I didn’t see any BCC jerseys up the road. So, I moved up from the back. I drilled it and dragged the bunch back to within 5 seconds. That effort hurt.
I dropped back to recover and wasn’t sure I had anything left, but held on. With 500m to go, I was near the front again. I launched but, on tired legs, up a drag, I had nothing left. I rolled in 44th.
Not headline stuff, but a personal win. I did my job. That effort helped teammate Toby Bush get back in the mix. He went on to take a podium. That felt good.
Rapha Lincoln Grand Prix
Wow. What an atmosphere. I’d heard the Lincoln GP was big, but nothing prepares you for that. Hot sun, huge crowds, the Cathedral on the hill, and the cobbled climb of Michaelgate roaring with noise. It was electric.
The plan: stay up front, be in the moves, help the team. The early laps went well. But as the race progressed, the heat and pressure built. One dodgy descent caused me to overshoot a corner into a driveway. This triggered a furious chase and burned all my matches.
I did one final lap, soaking up the buzz, then pulled out.
It wasn’t the result I hoped for, but it showed me where I need to be. This race is next-level, and I’m starting to understand that being in the mix here is a long-term process.
Welwyn Track League
After Lincoln, I took a weekend off and headed home with my sister for some much needed home comforts. On the way, I stopped at Welwyn Track League. It was great to be back in the usual chaos and whimberling. I took second in the Scratch to teammate James Ambrose-Parish, then another second in the Handicap. I gambled in the Reverse Win-Out and got fifth, then lined up for the 10-mile.
It was chilly and windy. I bided my time, then attacked with three laps to go. James was at the back, and by the time he reacted, I had a gap. I kicked hard and won it in 20:32, not bad for windy conditions. Great to be back.
GA Bennett p/b Pedal Pushers
Final race of May and honestly, by this point I was fatigued, I was cooked. Exams loomed, and my head wasn’t fully in the game.
The course was relatively flat, but I struggled to find the focus and commitment. I’ve always wrestled with racing around exam season. Cycling’s dangerous, and I can’t ignore how important my education is. I get conflicted.
I tried to make the early move but couldn’t commit. At 70km, my legs and mind both said no. I pulled out, disappointed. But with some space and reflection, I understand why. I set high standards, but sometimes, realism is more important than perfection. Brian my DS had a chat with me and I was able to start to put it in perspective. I still had a long way to go and this was all part of the process.
Now onto Exams and see what June brings.
Thanks
Before I wrap this up, I want to thank two people in particular:
- Max, my coach – You’ve been a huge support through the emotional ups and downs of this month. Thank you for keeping it real and all in perspective.
- Brian Steel, my DS at BCC – Quiet, thoughtful, and always with the right words at the right time. Your belief in me means an enormous amount.
As ever, thanks to the sponsors. They include Highway Cycles, Matt’s Auto Repair Services, TLC Live, Saffron Walden Round Table, and Pedal Potential.
Gilbank Racing 