In 2023, I competed in a time trial for the first time, the day after the “Beat the Cog Railway” race, still not long after recovering from an illness. In U17, we were only allowed to race with gearing that met the regulation (50/14). Time trial suits, helmets, and aero bars were permitted, but I didn’t have any of those. Up until this race, I thought time trials weren’t for me—I’m more of a climber. I only entered because in the AKESZ series, your points only count if you complete a certain number of road races (at least 6) and time trials (minimum 2).
So, I lined up with my Bianchi, wearing a regular helmet, regular kit, and no aero bars, just to check off one of the two required time trials. And surprisingly, I came in second.
Since then, I’ve grown to love time trials, and I’ve realized I’m not so bad at them after all.
