HeinriBrink

Hi, I would like to pay credit where it is due. Went to cycle lab today to have another crankset installed that is power meter compatible. Walked into the shop, asked to speak to someone from the workshop. About 2s later a mechanic was there, got the details, got the bike out of the car and into the workshop. Guy called Norman Phala assisted with the installation, what a professional. Absolutely meticulous, knows what he's doing. I'm so glad I didn't attempt this myself as he had the BB on and off more than 5 times to make sure everything is just right and that the spacers are absolutely perfect. He then set my gears to perfection. He said he's working at the Cape Epic later this year, you guys are in good hands. Thanks to Cycle Lab for great service. I really appreciate it!

I would like to ask some advice as a noob to both road cycling as well as CTCT. I've been training hard for a while and just completed my very first road race last Sunday, which was the Monte Classico 90km. I finished in a time of < 3hrs, which I'm proud of. However, I'm riding my first CTCT this year and I'm very much looking forward to it. The seedings came out about 2 days before I did my first race, so as a result, my seeding is way back. I'm starting at 9:40 only. So my question is, what should be my race strategy to first of all enjoy the race, but also finish in a decent time. My aim is between 3 and 4 hours. I assume I'll have to ride in higher heat, probably more wind and within a mass of cyclists that are probably slower than me. I'll handle the heat and wind, I'm confident I'll make the climbs as I think I'm fit enough. The part that worries me is having to safely overtake endlessly on a crowded road while trying to have a decent race.

It was my first race as well, thoroughly enjoyed it. The JMPD and the marshalls were fantastic. I felt quite safe from the traffic, nowhere near as bad as training on busy roads on your own. I'll be back next year for sure.