Amashova Experience

[MountainGoatee]

Hi

 

I am relatively new to road cycling, having only done one 94.7 and the Amashova this past weekend. I've read a lot of comments regarding the registration and the Standard bank group, but for me overall it was a very enjoyable experience.

My best experience of the race was thanks to a guy called Gabriel who started with me in the E batch. He obviously picked up that I am new to road cycling and instead of shouting, gave me a lot of tips and usefull advice at various occasions along the route. He also shared his knowledge of the route which helped me a lot. Unfortunately I lost contact with him about 2/3 into the race (not on purpose) and never got a chance to thank him for all his advice. All the advice I received definately made me a better and safer rider. Isn't this what cycling is all about? Thanks again to Gabriel and other riders like him out there making the experience more enjoyable for all of us.

[cosborne]

Good on Gabriel We all remember our first Shova and it was a daunting thing! With each race you'll pick up more skills. We hope too see you again next year MG!

Edited October 20, 2010 by cosborne

[Trubie]

Glad you enjoyed it!!

 

 

Also my first Shova, wish I had more route knowledge............

Drove over the route on the way down to Dbn on friday, but nothing beats riding it.

Next time I hope to box a little more clever.

Great challenge non the less.

[I FLY]

My 1st Shova after 14 years of riding.

 

1. I started in the C group and was passed by the Standard bunch on the first hills where the road was 4 lanes wide - no problems. I heard them shouting " Go, boys" but nothing else

 

2. I rode with my friend who had been sick so we took it easy until after Bothas Hill. Good move as there are many hills

 

3. I did not use any of the watering tables so cannot comment on what they served. I still think that riders should stop to take drinks. Where I am in the field neither the riders or the water table staff have the skills to refuel on the move. I saw many near crashes on the day.

 

4. I enjoyed the novelty of being on the comrades route. It did make me swear not to run that race

 

5. We mainly rode in small bunches :2 to 15 riders. It is so much easier to stay away from riders that are nervous or unskilled in that size bunch.

 

6. Fields Hill was less of an issue then I was expecting. It was over too quickly.

 

7. The first sight of the sea was exciting. I felt like a lemming.

 

8. At the finish I took a USN drink and left.

 

9. The race was harder than I anticipated but the crowd support was fantastic.

 

10. The logistics of doing this race when I live in Jhb means that I may not ride it again.

[SamF400]

- My 1st AMA as well.

- Expected a better time as I put the training in.

- Loved the downhills oohhhh scarey lol

- Could not find a decent bunch to ride with as they were either to slow or way to fast for me to hang onto.

- I did find a guy in the last 20km by the name of ZANE who did not mind me siiting on his back wheel, Thanks.

- I enjoyed it.

Will do it again.

 

 

Back to the drawing board for 94.7