It's also nice to explain how and why. Firstly, I haven't been well or consistent in my recent training so...
- I took it easy
- I warmed up
- I made sure I gritted my teeth only when absolutely necessary
- When ready I had a few digs to see how my body would react (and see how the others were going)
- I found I could manage 350-400W up the short climb once every 2km lap and recover in time for the 36-40kmh slight 1km climb, even when leading the bunch
- However I was hitting 175-180bpm and feeling stretched (192pbm is my upper limit)
- So I took every breather I could
- But I let no-one get away
- I stayed up front (easy after the first third of the race as we were down to just 4 in the lead bunch)
- I was vigilant
- I anticipated attacks up the long straight and the final, crucial attack up the steepest part of the last hill
- I used 1400W (probably lifted the front wheel - let's say 1,000W) in one burst on the 8% hill to get on the right wheel
- I stayed on that wheel and they (thanks Arron) towed me over the top and down to the finish straight
- I waited and waited and then crept over my lead out just before the line (500W into a headwind but down a 4% hill)
- And threw the bike to pass him for the win - just.
