Cycling Coaching Services

McLaughlin Third in GP de Plouay

Friday 26th August signalled the start of the historical 3 Jours de Plouay held in the heart of Brittany, France. Over the course of the 3 days there were 4 events, a sportif on Friday, an amateur Men’s Elite Race coupled with the Women’s World cup event; GP de Plouay - Bretagne on Saturday, followed finally by the World Tour event; GP Ouest-France - Plouay on the Sunday all held on the same course.

James McLaughlin, who was competing for Hennebont Cyclisme, a team in which he will be riding with for the rest of the season; competed in the Elite Amateur race on the Saturday morning. The race is held over a 19.1 km lap and as usual, the selection is made progressively over the 114.6 km with the ascents of the three "monstrosities" of the circuit-Jean-Yves Perron, the Lezot, Ty Kerihuel and the Marrec being the make or break points for most riders.

“I rode the race last year and was taken aback by the professionalism of the event even though it was the amateur race. The course is ‘tres fort’ meaning ‘very hard’ with 3 Cotes (hills) per lap and certainly being one of the best I have ever ridden.”

There was a large field set out for the GP de Plouay amateurs in 2011, totalling almost 150 riders. The pace was hot from the start and with the Sarnian present in almost all of the early breaks and finally found himself in a group off the front of the peloton chasing a break of 6. Come the midway point the break was just about caught; forming a group of 19 riders out front with the bunch in pieces behind all trying to get across.

Over the next couple of laps small groups kept going clear from the lead group only to be brought back a matter of kilometres later due to the increasing speed. Finally on the last lap the killer blow was made. Yann Guyot (Army) attacked at the top of the Ty Kerihuel (2nd Cote) with only McLaughlin, Jeremy Cornu (Vendee U) being able to go with him. Mathieu Le Lavendier (Sojasun) managed to bridge across over the top of the climb.

With the final climb of the Marrec looming, all 4 leaders seemed to not be keeping much in reserve. As the quartet took the left hander onto the main road with the final ‘monstrosity’ starring straight at them, it was McLaughlin who attacked and lead up the final climb, setting a blistering pace. Coming to the summit where the road started to drag for the final 200 meters, it was Guyot who then counter attacked, going over the top of McLaughlin riding away solo.

With Cornu and Le Lavendier just behind, the Sarnian quickly organised a chase however coming into the final kilometre we could see it was all over as the gap was a good 200 meters. Cornu lead out the sprint early catching McLaughlin by surprise who had to settle for 3rd.

“It was a great race today, the atmosphere was amazing and I had good legs throughout the race however coming into the last lap I could feel the effects of the course. I tried my luck up the last climb however when Yann attacked there was nothing I could do. The best man won.” It has been a reassurance of form which gives me a lot of confidence for next week’s British Time Trial Championships.

McLaughlin Shows Great Progress - Ronde Finisterienne Road Race - Briec du L'Odet, France

James McLaughlin continues to show great progress following a fantastic 5th place in the Ronde Finisterienne Road Race yesterday.   The pace of the race was fast from the start with constant attacks and attempts for small groups to get off the front.  McLaughlin worked hard to get into the relevant moves but started to tire at lap 10 of 30, each lap covering 3.6 km on a sporting course.  At this point McLaughlin took a breather at the back of the peleton for 5 laps.  I was concerned as have never seen James in this position.

However, McLaughlin got back into his stride.  By the halfway point a break of 4 moved away which was to be the winning break.  Meanwhile McLaughlin was chasing with the pace so frantic that the peleton splintered into a number of small groups.

With just a lap remaining McLaughlin took the initiative and attacked his group of 12 riders on the climb which would take riders past the finish area.  Riding for LCF Rothschild Development Team, McLaughlin kept clear to finish in a fantastic 5th place in a quality field, 56 seconds back from the leaders.

London Triathlon

Congratulations to Deb Thompson on completing her first triathlon, the London Olympic Distance Tri. Deb was the 4th fastest swimmer in her age group, 6th fastest bike and 22nd fastest on the run despite lack of specific run training due to an achilles injury.  Deb finished 21st overall in her age group. A great start to her new sport.  Check out what Deb has to say here.

Another Win for McLaughlin

James McLaughlin produced a magnificant win in the Grand Prix Leclerc, Hennebont against a quality field.  In the breakaway McLaughlin decided not to attack due to the strong headwind and the risk of a strong team working to close him down.  Instead he waited for the sprint winning by a bike length .  James dedicated his win to a friend who had sadly died the previous week so this meant a lot to the Guernseyman.  Click here to read a translation of the race report (if you can follow the translation).

MTB Tour of Guernsey

Congratulations to Gary Robert for finishing 2nd in the MTB Tour of Guernsey over 7 days of racing over various terrain and events including the Motocross circuit, D'Up Hill, Cross Country, and Time Trial.  TIm Luscombe returned to racing following completion of the Ride Across Britain to finish in 10th place on a single speed.  Well done Team Cycleworld.

Island Games - MTB XC

The final cycling event of the games was the MTB XC held on a tough and at times, technical course.  In the women's event, ex professional rider, Ruth Moll of Menorca rode to victory whilst Bowditch battled out with Jacqui Fletcher once more.

Following a tight turn off a very fast descent where Bowditch reached 37.6 mph Bowditch's chain got caught around her front chainset resulting in the need to dismount and free the chain losing valuable time which was to cost her the silver medal.  However, a consolation bronze and team silver backed up by good rider by Frankie Middleton in 7th place and Carol-Anne Stapley in 9th place finished off a good week of competition.

Island Games - Time Trial

Ann Bowditch placed 5th in the time trial held over 18 mile which included Backgang Hill, together with Karina Bowie's 3rd place this gave the Guernsey team the silver medal.

In the men's event James McLaughlin took the silver medal with the event won by Andrew Roche of Isle of Man.  The Guernsey team took silver.

Island Games - Road Race

Day 3 of the Island Games and another race for Bowditch as the only rider participating in all 5 cycling events.  The race started in a thunderstorm which led to challenging conditions with some nasty off-camber corners for riders to negotiate.

The riders covered Backgang hill 4 times, a tough climb which quickly saw off most the field leaving a leading peleton of 5 riders including Bowditch and fellow Sarnian Karina Bowie as well as 2 Jersey riders and Ruth Moll of Menorca.  With Moll unwilling to work the Channel Islanders were left to lead the race.

Into the final lap and Bowie lost touch with the leaders.  Bowditch was still in contention and comfortable in small lead group.  Townsend of Jersey led the final climb and near the top Ashton of Jersey launched herself to take victory, Moll took silver and Bowditch the bronze.  Together with Bowie's 5th place, this gave the Guernsey team the silver team medal.

In the men's event James McLaughlin took silver in a sprint for the line with Saaremma rider, Mihkel Räim following a break which included Andrew Roche and Christian Varley of IOM, Nic Hutchings of IOW and Richard Tanguy of Jersey.  The Guernsey men's team also took silver.

Island Games - MTB Criterium

Day 2 of the Island Games saw riders take to the grass for the MTB criterium on a tough course.  The Ladies race was won by Menorca whilst Bowditch battled out with Jacqui Fletcher of IOM for the silver medal.  Both riders were neck and neck throughout the race but Bowditch took the silver medal  in a sprint for the line.  Meanwhile Frankie Middletonle took 6th place and Carol-Anne Stapley was right behind in 7th.

Island Games - Town Criterium

Ann Bowditch rode to glory  in the first cycling event of the Islands Games hosted by Isle of Wight.  The event was held on an 800 metre circuit with some fast corners and a small incline towards the finish line.  The Guernsey team tactics were to attack from the start, this quickly split the peleton resulting a small group of 5 riders out in front.  However, with not all riders in the leading bunch prepared the work the pace slowed and the pack came back together.

Further attempts were made to split the front peleton but with 3 laps remaining the pace slowed which played into Guernsey's hands with Karina Bowie and Sam Herridge making their way back to the leaders.  Herridge took the initiative with 2 laps remaining and hit the front, Bowditch was quickly onto her wheel.  Herridge pulled over after the final corner leaving Bowditch to take on the 300 metre sprint to a clear victory over Isle of Man and Jersey taking who took 2nd and third respectively.  Herridge took 6th giving the Sarnians the gold medal in team standings. 

Tour de Serbie

Congratulations to James McLaughlin on his performances in the Tour de Serbie riding for Team CMI/BSI - American registered team.  We are awaiting final classification results.  This was a step up for the 20 year old who was in good company competing against the likes of Michael Rasmussen.  Riders covered 1130 km in 7 days of racing.

Ride Across Britain

Congratulations to Tim Luscombe for being the first rider to complete the Ride Across Britain today.  Tim rode all of today's stage of 111 miles on his own.

Half Marathon

Congratulations to Laura Alexander on a 5 minute personal best in today's half marathon.

MTB Race at Delancey

Gary Robert placed 6th in the Elite category of today's MTB race on a technical MTB course held at Delancey Park.  Meanwhile, Ann Bowditch placed 2nd in Veteran's category and first women.

Ride Across Britain

Tim Luscombe has been putting months of endurance training to good use in the Ride Across Britain. Yesterday he completed 99 miles in 5 hrs 20 minutes and today covered a tough 121 miles in 7 hrs 6 mins. Great work Stig.

5 laps Reservoir Road Race

Gary Robert rode well to finish 3rd and Ann Bowditch placed 4th in the Div 2 road race over 5 laps of the Reservoir circuit in challenging conditions. Many riders didn't start and others didn't finish due to the heavy rain and slippery conditions.

6 Laps Talbot Loop Road Race

We had a great race in Div 2 today. Tim Luscombe put in a number of attacks. The leading group dwindled climb after climb until down to 3 by the 5th of 6 laps, including Stuart Wallbridge, Mark Smith and Ann Bowditch. Into the final climb, Wallbridge put in one more effort and took Smith with him but Wallbridge had the edge over the line. Bowditch took third a few seconds back.

Jersey Racing Weekend

We have some fantastic racing in Jersey over the weekend against some quality competition including the Motorpoint Teams in the mens and ladies races and the likes of Magnes Backstedt. Ann Bowditch placed 5th in both the criterium and road race and James McLaughlin placed 9th in the criterium and 3rd in the road race.

Jersey's Watersplash Hill Climb

Ann Bowditch was first placed woman in the Jersey Watersplash Hill Climb completing the hill in a time of 5:22.

Southern Division Road Race Championship to James McLaughlin

Congratulations to James McLaughlin on wining the Southern Champs Road Race today. A great Guernsey effort to ensure that an early break did not stay away. McLaughlin rode a tactically good race getting away with Jersey's Richard Tanguy and then riding away to victory.

6 laps Coudre Road Race

Good riding by Gary Robert saw him take third in Div 2 today. Effectively a win with the first two placed rider moving down a division from Div 1. Robert pushed hard on the first climb to take the group to a selection of 6 riders.

London to Paris Cycle Ride

Congratulations to Laura Alexander for completing the London to Paris cycle ride. Great achievement.

Win for Harrison at Chouet

Another top result from AB Coaching riders with James Harrison winning today's advanced class MTB race at Chouet. Unfortunately Ann Bowditch's race ended 5 minutes in after her pedal snapped off.

First French Road Race Win for McLaughlin

James McLaughlin achieved his first French road race win in France yesterday. James made the break of 8 riders on lap 2 of 22 and stayed away from the peleton for the entire race. The 20 year old said he felt strong throughout the rack

10mTT

Ann Bowditch was first lady in yesterday's 10mTT on a revised course due to roadworks.

Win for Bowditch in Sporting Time Trial

Ann Bowditch was first lady in today's 4 lap Reservoir Time Trial on a damp course with new 3 and 4 lap ladies records.

Inter-Insular Racing

Lots of wins for Guernsey this weekend in the Inter-Insular time trial yesterday and today's road race. Win for Ann Bowditch in the women's race.

McLaughlin Wins Totnes Vires Stage Race

Great news.... James McLaughlin won the Totnes Vires stage race this weekend. More information to follow.

Easter Racing

Tough day in the 25m TT today. Some tired legs and a strong NE wind to contend with. Really pleased with performances by my riders and very happy with my records from the weekend.

4 Laps L'Eree Road Race

3 ladies records broken by Ann Bowditch today. Strong rides by Team Cycleworld Guernsey. Awesome attack by Tim Luscombe @ 1km out. Gary Robert took group sprint. Average 24 mph.

10mTT

Massive PB by Ben Walden in today's 10m TT.

4 Laps Reservoir Road Race

With the addition of Aaron Bailey in Div 2 we had to work hard. Team Cycleworld Guernsey were strong, Ben Walden and @Gary Robert worked hard on the front. Bailey broke up the race on Le Mont Saint climb on the final lap for the win. Tim Luscombe led Ann Bowditch to the bottom of the final climb to take 3rd overall.

Easter Stage I - 1 km Prologue

Gary Robert had a good start in last night's prologue recording a time of 1:15 and placing 15th. Meanwhile Ann Bowditch placed first lady with a time of 1:20.

15 laps Perelle Road Race

Ann Bowditch second in Div 2 for 15 laps of Perelle Road Race. Div 1 caught us on the third lap then hung in for 5 laps before doing through 'n' off with Mark Smith. Winter work beginning to pay off.

McLaughlin in Tour of Mallorca

James McLaughlin had a superb Tour of Mallorca finishing 5th on overall classification riding for Pendragon Cycle Team. James finished 1min 39 secs down on the winner and was first under 23 rider by nearly 4 minutes. What a superb start to James' professional career.

Great Wins for AB Cycle Coaching Riders

James McLaughlin proved his strength to win Division One in 7 laps of Reservoir Road Race comfortably taking the sprint on the incline to the finish.  McLaughlin always looked comfortable throughout the race.

Meanwhile Ben Walden took the honours in Division Two making this two wins in two road races for the MTB rider.  Tim Luscombe started the lead out for Walden over the top of the Reservoir prior to Gary Robert taking the reigns allowing Walden a superb opportunity, which he seized, to take the victory.  Robert took 2nd making it a 1-2 for AB Cycle Coaching.

Technical Problem

I am having some technical problems with my website which might mean a delay in updating the results.  Please bear with me and note that results will be posted to Facebook.

First Race and Podium for Abi Fletcher

Abi Fletcher exceeded her expectations when she took a third place in her first ever road event over a 48km circuit race.

Robert back on Podium

Details to follow.

Win for Gary Robert on Jersey Soil

Details to follow.

Commonwealth Games - Delhi - McLaughin top Guernsey Rider again

There has never been any doubt about James McLaughlin's testing abilities.  This time however, he was able to test his strength against the professionals in challenging conditions of over 35 degrees.

Setting off McLaughlin caught rider after rider and was looking strong. With a headwind return it was necessary for the 20 year old to pace his effort.  This he did finishing in a superb 17th place  in a time of 54:55 for the 40 km course.

In the women's race Ann Bowditch placed 19th in a truly international field which included the newly crown World Time Trial Champion, Emma Pooley.  It was not to be Pooley's day, however, possibly due to the nature of the course being relatively flat with a very strong headwind return, conditions also not suited to the "Pocket Rocket" (Bowditch).  Pooley eventually finished in 9th place with Bowditch in 19th.

Commonwealth Games - Delhi - McLaughlin looks at home with Pro's in Road Race

There is no doubt that James McLaughlin stole the show in terms of Guernsey cycling performances at the Commonwealth Games.  In the men's road race an early break went comprising a New Zealand rider and Irish rider.  Isle of Man led the chase.  New Zealand were looking very strong as other riders bridged to the front.  Meanwhile McLaughlin was looking good in the large peleton as other riders could not match the pace. 

Into the latter stages of the race, the early leaders had been pulled back and a break which included David Miller was looking strong.  Meanwhile James was in a chasing pack of 8 working for 13th place.  There were only 3 riders prepared to work in that group, McLaughlin being on of those.  He paid for his efforts finishing 20th in the sprint for the line but what an awesome result against professional riders such as Mark Cavendish who finished 7th.

In the women's race, Ann Bowditch was comfortable in the peleton as other riders dropped off the pace and were eventually pulled out of the race.  Ann was enjoying the technical nature of the course but on lap 2 was held up by a crash just in front of her.  Bowditch worked hard to get back onto the peleton.  Lap 4 saw almost a repetition when another crash happened right in front of the Guernsey rider.   Bowditch had to play catch up once more but this time wasn't quite able to get back to the peleton. With no team to support her, Bowditch continued the second half of the race on her own finishing in 38th place out of the 59 starters.

McLaughlin continues to show awesome form

James McLaughlin stormed today's 5mTT in a time 10:54 against very strong winds, a convincing victory over 2nd place by 35 seconds.  Ann Bowditch was first lady in 12:56.  Riders had a strong tailwind out which meant for an extremely tough return.  At times cross winds and open slipways made conditions that bit more challenging.

Today's result bodes well for young McLaughlin as he prepares to head off to Delhi for the Commonwealth Games with me and other members of the Guernsey team on Monday.

Stapley 23rd in New Forest Half Ironman

Richard Stapley continues his preparation for the  Ford Ironman in Arizona.  He tested his form in the New Forest Half Iroman where he was 6th veteran and 23rd overall.

Richard's splits were as follows;

Swim 38.04

Bike 2.37.56

Run 1.45.58

Total 5.01.59

Bowditch and Hill-Smith Pair up at Duo Normand

Ann Bowditch and Callum Hill-Smith paired up at the Duo Normand in the mixed category.  The pair got off to a fast start helped by a tailwind but had to contend with a headwind into the tough marshes followed by the climbs. The pair eventually finished in 1 hr 27 giving them 2nd place over.

McLaughlin 8th in France

James McLaughlin continues to show good form ahead of leaving for the Commonwealth Games finishing 8th in a recent French Road Race. 

Bowditch 14th in WXCRL Autumn Road Race

Ann Bowditch was the sole female competing in the Regional A WXCRL Autumn Road Race in Wimbourne Minster.  The field of 29 riders comprised mostly Division 2 riders.  The pace from the offset was fast and was a test for the Scienceinsport.com rider.  Bowditch positioned herself well in the bunch and each time the main climb came about was near the front of the peleton.

The pace was relentless for the first 34 miles as riders started to watch each other.   By 45 miles a split had happened taking 9 riders.  Bowditch found herself in the chasing bunch.  The race was won by Andy Rivett in 2:26:36 with Bowditch in 14th 3.35 down on the winner.  This bodes as good preparation for Delhi with a fast race on a not particularly hilly course just shy of 100km.

Pip Appleton takes on Blackrat North Devon Sportive

Pip Appleton completed the Blackrat North Devon sportive last weekend. It was her first sportive...100km of gruelling hilly terrain with several 1 in 4 climbs along the rugged north Devon coast and crossing Exmoor on the return.  This is her account.  "The scenery was stunning, though difficult to appreciate at the time. Even though I was an hour behind the first rider I was pleasantly surprised to hear that I was the 3rd woman back, and it definitely left me keen for more. Thanks to Ann for helping me to focus my training and preparation, I was grateful on the day!"

Mighty McLaughlin

There were some fantastic performances by my riders tonight in the 5mTT.  James McLaughlin stormed to victory, smashing the course record with a time of 10:14.  James shows great form following 2 months racing in France.  Other great performances came from Kerin Sargent 11.38, Damien Appleton 12:08, Ben Walden 12:12 and Tim (Stig) Luscombe 12:53 on a road bike.  I placed as first woman with a time of 12:30.

Hill-Smith sets new Jersey Junior 16km TT record

Callum Hill-Smith smashed Jersey's junior 15kmTT record on their La Pulente course by a massive 3 mins 20 secs on a very windy day.

The course started at the end of the 5 mile road going up a long climb, it then carried on along the top road until doing a U turn at the end and then riders returned to the start.

Hill-Smith rode the first part of the race, in his own words, "flat out, I sprinted through all my gears at the start and powered through until I hit the hill.   As I approached the hill I could see my 1 min man and also my 2 min man which was Ryan O’Shea (the other junior) with them in sight I rode the hill as if I was possessed, with my heart rate reaching well in over 200 bpm. On the decent I caught and passed the other junior and then set my sights on catching my 1 min man. As I approached the finish he was about 300 meters up the road."  Hill-Smith finished with a time of 22.09 and, in doing so, smashed the previous record of 25.29.

Bowditch first women in wet 25mTT

Ann Bowditch placed as first woman on a wet and windy day in the Velo Club's 25mTT. Many riders were put off riding by the weather which led to a smaller field than expected.  With AB Coaching's only other rider in the race, Ben Walden, puncturing, it was left to Bowditch to produce a result.  Bowditch came home in 64:10 on what was a tough day.

Top rides in Jersey by AB Coaching Riders

Kerin Sargent produced another great performance to finish in 6th place over 8 laps of Jersey's Watersplash course in the senior event.  There was a quality field with Richard Tanguy (eventual winner) and Rob Ovenden present.  However, the early pace was cautious as riders were watching each other.  The pace did hot up when Tanguy and Ovenden split the field.  Riders came through the finish line individually as the last climb clearly took its toll. Sargent continues to grow in strength and stamina with a hill top finish to his liking placing him 6th.

Meanwhile Ann Bowditch and Damien Appleton rode the veterans and ladies 6 lap event.  With the event being a JCA Championship, there were club tactics between the two Jersey teams.  Appleton was looking strong on the hills and keen to get going.  The pace up the 2nd climb as sufficient to ensure that Bowditch had no further female competitors to concern her as they found the pace too tough and dropped off the peleton.

Bowditch put in a 'suicide attack' to bridge a gap to a Jersey Velo rider along the 5 mile road, only to be closed down by the peleton.  Despite her efforts, Bowditch was able to jump onto the group and stay in contention

Into the final climb and the group started to split.  Damien Appleton came through strong to finish in 4th place whilst Ann Bowditch placed 14th and 1st lady. 

Bowditch First Women at Hougue Bie

Ann Bowditch was first woman and 15th overall in Jersey's scratch road race over 9 laps of the Hougue Bie circuit.  The race was fast from the start averaging over 24 mph.  The final two laps were the fastest of all as Jersey's top riders tried to break the main peleton of over 20 riders.  However, Bowditch held the fast pace lapping many of the Jersey women riders.

Another Podium for Sargent

Kerin Sargent produced another podium finish to place 2nd in the Division 2 road race over 5 laps of the Reservoir course.  Sargent and Bowditch were part of a group of 5 which split from the initial group of 10 riders early into the race.  By the third lap 5 became 4.  Sargent then attacked on the final lap to be joined by one other rider who pipped him across the line. Meanwhile Bowditch placed 4th over.

Sargent On the Up

Kerin Sargent put in 2 fabulous performances in last night's double Rocquaine Regatta Hill Climb event.  After the first climb up Pleinmont, Sargent placed 2nd overall on scratch and showed immense determination to take 1st in the second climb which took riders up the back of the Imperial. Meanwhile Ann Bowditch placed 1st woman on both hills with a convincing winning margin of 8 seconds combined.

Wet Wet Wet

Well done to Carol-Anne Stapley for producing a personal best time in Sunday's 25mTT in wet and extremely slippery conditions. No less than 8 riders fell off.  Carol-Anne kept the rubber on the tarmac to be first lady and knock over 2mins 30 off her time.

MTB Tour of Guernsey

Gary Robert and Ben Walden put in some fine performances to finish 3rd and 5th respectively in the Tour of Guernsey.  Robert put in consistently good performances and placed for much of the week but leaped to 3rd in the final stages.  Meanwhile Walden got stronger as the week went on moving him up the ranks.

Jersey Watersplash Road Race

Congratulations to Kerin Sargent for taking third place in Jersey's scratch Watersplash race.  Sargent is getting stronger by the race.  There were 35 starters in the race which took riders 6 times up the Watersplash climb.  Sargent was always looking comfortable near the front of the peleton.  Each time up the hill saw more riders drop off as they struggled to maintain the pace.  Two laps remaining saw a break of 6 go up the road including Sargent, who was outnumbered by 4 Jersey riders. The breakaway also included the eventual winner, German, Heindrik Eggers.  Into the final straight saw Eggers attack for the finish line.  Initially there was no reaction from fellow competitors until Jersey's top sprinter, Ali Cann, took the initiative followed by Sargent for third.   A great result in Sargent's first year of road racing.

Ann Bowditch was in the chasing peleton and crossed the line in 17th place and top female rider.  Meanwhile, Callum Hill-Smith was unfortunate to suffer a mechanical which caused him to pull out of the race.  Other riders who fell too far behind the leaders were pulled out of the race.

10mTT

Well done to Kerin Sargent for yet another personal best in Saturday's 10mTT.  Kerin completed the course in a time of 23:36.

Marmotte

Congratulations to Gareth Wallis for completing the Marmotte in extremely tough conditions in 9 hr 26 mins, over 30 minutes faster than last year.  More to follow on this in due course.

100km Road Race

James McLaughin took 2nd in the local 100km road race held over 6 laps of the Vazon circuit.  In the same race, Kerin Sargent was placed 2nd in Division 2 with Callum Hill-Smith 3rd following a break by the two riders in which Oliver Tracey was able to latch onto break and take the win.  Ann Bowditch was first woman in the same race, whilst Carol-Anne Stapley was 2nd in Division 4 over 3 laps of the course.

Inter-Insular Time Trial

Ann Bowditch was first woman in the Inter-Insular 25mTT held in Jersey on a technical and complicated course.  Callum Hill-Smith was 2nd junior in the same event.

Stapley 3rd in Local Tri

Richard Stapley put in an exceptional bike leg to take third in the local triathlon.  Stapley caught leader, Alan Rowe, on the bike after putting in the fastest bike leg of the day and came into the second transition equal first only to be over taken on the run but did enough to hold onto third place in a quality field.

L'Eree Road Race - 2 Wins for AB Coaching Riders

I am running out of superlatives to describe James McLaughlin's performances this year but today he did it again winning the 8 lap L'Eree road race covering 100km.  McLaughlin was looking strong on the hills pushing the leaders all the way and eventually winning by half a wheel length.  In the 6 lap race Callum Hill-Smith won the 3 man sprint to win the race.  Meanwhile, Kerin Sargent, still in his first year of road racing, put in a terrific performance to finish third.

Vazon Road Race

There were some great performances put in by AB Coaching riders in the recent local road race.  Kerin Sargent came out on top winning Division 3.  Meanwhile Damien Appleton took a great third in Division 2.  Appleton found the second time up L'Eree tough going and couldn't stay with the leader when he broke away. However, a group of 4 formed and chased him catching him before St Andrews Church.  On the final climb Appleton stayed with the favourite when he jumped and then over took him but faded just before the line and got caught. Appleton praised Gary Robert for playing a super domestique role.  Robert finished 7th overall in Division 2 with Ben Walden coming in 4th.

McLaughlin Toughs it Out at Ryedale GP

James McLaughlin continues to boost his experience by finishing 25th out of over 100 starters in the Ryedale GP over 185 km.  Conditions on the day were incredibly tough resulting in many riders pulling out.   This was the youngsters first race for the Pendragon team and forms part of McLaughlin's Commonwealth Games preparation.

McLaughlin on Top Again

James McLaughlin put in a fantastic performance yet again to win the 6 lap Talbot Loop Road Race.  McLaughlin pushed the pace from the start, keeping riders under pressure.  His hill climbing prowess broke up the field early on leaving a number of division 1 riders to attempt to put a stop to his string of wins.  However, there was nobody able to match McLaughlin's pace as he put the hammer down on the final climb to take the win.

Hill-Smith Rising Through the Ranks

Callum Hill-Smith put in a solid performance in this morning's 5mTT with a time of 11:41 to place him 5th over and as first junior.

3 Personal Bests and a Record - 10mTT

James McLaughlin continues his impressive form with a new record in the local 10mTT.  McLaughlin published a time of 21:09 on a good night for racing.  Triathlete, Richard Stapley, underlined his form with a new PB of 23:00 and Kerin Sargent, still new to all this cycle racing, set a new PB of 24:43.  Meanwhile, more at home on a mountain bike, Ben Walden achieved a new PB of 25.21 on a road bike.  Well done to you all.

McLaughlin Wins First Two Stages of Totnes Vire 2 Day

Last weekend saw the start of the Totnes-Vire 2-day Stage Race in Devon, consisting of three stages: a prologue and two 100 km Road Races. Guernsey had sent over a strong showing of its riders for this race, including Commonwealth Games hopeful, James McLaughlin.

Stage 1 - The first stage was a 5.5 km Prologue. The profile was all up hill. Not to disappoint the stunning form McLaughlin has shown of late, he tore up the 5.5 km stage, coming in with a time of 9.31 and tying for 1st position after the prologue, with Rhys Llyod of the Pendragon Le Col Team.

Stage 2 - The second stage was a 100 km Road Race, around a hilly circuit, with the finale being on the top of the climb where the Prologue finished earlier in the day.  The race got off to a very fast start with the Willier/Big Maggy’s team setting a blistering pace up the first climb.  With McLaughlin’s team mates out of the race for various reason, the 19 year old, had to use the other teams to his advantage in his search for the stage victory.

The pace was intense for the initial couple of laps of the 3 lap race. However, Rhys Lloyd, attacked hard out of the bunch up the final climb before the finale. Seeing this as a serious danger to the stage victory, McLaughlin quickly bridged the gap up to Lloyd to create a two man break. Leaving the majority of the bunch in their wake, McLaughlin and Lloyd continued to press forward creating a sizeable lead. Nearing the top of the climb, one of Lloyd’s team mates, Yanto Barker joined the duo, doing some long turns on the front to try and get the break going.  As the final lap progressed, the main bunch slowly pulled the trio back for which now seemed to be a bunch finish.

As the riders reached the finale of the stage, the Pendragon Le Col Team once again wound it up for their climber Lloyd, with Barker taking the lead roll in putting down a blistering tempo up the final climb in an effort for team victory. The only two riders to stay with him were Lloyd and McLaughlin. The rest of the field fell to the speed of the finale. As the race approached the final 150 meters, Lloyd and McLaughlin came round Barkerto fight out the victory. After a hard fought race, McLaughlin came out on top, eventually winning the stage by a comfortable 10 bike lengths from Lloyd who faded in the final meters to take second and Barker coming home in 3rd. “It was a very tactical race, with a lot of decisive moves being performed on the climbs.” stated McLaughlin upon finishing. “The win is fantastic! It’s the first I’ve had in the UK and against such a strong field, it means a lot!”

McLaughlin was now the overall leader going into the final stage road race on the Sunday.

Stage 3 - Today’s stage saw mixed fortunes and almost a complete role reversal of the previous day.  Just a matter of kilometres into the race, Mclaughlin suffered a major mechanical failure and with an irrevocably broken bike, was forced to withdraw from the stage. “ I was completely gutted, especially having started the day as the race leader. But that‘s racing!” added McLaughlin, as he returned to the course to support the remaining Guernsey riders.

Win for McLaughlin

James McLaughlin is at the top of Guernsey cycling once again with a fantastic performance to win a three man sprint finish today by a wheel's length.  McLaughlin was part of a four group breakaway in Division 1 over 8 laps of the Coudre road race.  One member of the breakaway group was dropped on the final climb leaving three to fight out the victory.  McLaughlin's form continues to improve so watch this space.

No Stopping Kerin Sargent

Kerin Sargent has been going from strength to strength with a string of personal bests in his running and cycling.  Already a strong swimmer, Kerin made an entrance to triathlon last year and contacted me early this year to help him with his training. He has been improving on his running and swim times and today took second place in the novice triathlon.

Osborn Third at Chouet

Jon Osborn took a great third place in the Expert class as the Chouet MTB race.  On one of his favoured couses, Osborn looked strong and was one of many to puncture although was quickly back into his stride.

McLaughlin - Easter Champion

James McLaughlin finished the Easter races off in style by winning today's 25mTT in 53:48, over a minute ahead of his nearest rival.  This was his second win of the weekend which he took in the 10mTT on Saturday with all his results in the top 5.  This has been an outstanding weekend for the diminutive rider who has battled it out in the road races against a team of riders.

Callum Hill-Smith has shown improving form this Easter and produced a category win beating other juniors in the 10mTT on Saturday on wet roads as his performance was a match for many of Guernsey's top riders.  Callum also had a great road race on Friday, in horrendous conditions, finishing as first junior.   

New to Guernsey racing, Damien Appleton, has put in some useful performances in the veterans category and shown good hill climbing prowess.  Expect to see more from Damien.

Ann Bowditch finished the weekend as first woman despite having to make up 4 minutes on her nearest rival in Friday's Reservoir Road Race.

So, all in all, a great weekend for our riders.

McLaughlin Hits the French Roads

LCF Rothschild rider, James McLaughlin rode his debut race in France for the 2010 season last weekend. There was a strong field out for a race so early in the season; with riders coming from some top amateur team.

The race got off to quite a slow start as the riders weaved their way out of the starting town of Chantonnay and out onto the open road. It was a 120 km race so the key for McLaughlin, was to stay near the front. It didn’t take long after for attacks to come left, right and centre in an attempt to get an early breakaway going.

The breakaway got off relatively early into the race with about 20 riders going clear – including a large proportion of the Vendee U riders. The breakaway built up a lead of about 90 seconds. As the chasing peloton reached half way, they hit two short but sharp climbs averaging 20%. This was when a chasing break was initiated, consisting of three French riders. As the peloton splintered, it was at this moment that McLaughlin knew he had to make the move to follow, accelerating after the 3 chasers to make a group of four in hot pursuit of the head of the field.

As the race progressed McLaughlin’s group of 4 gained ground on the leading group of 20 to the point when they were only 30 agonising seconds behind. However, as the race approached the 20 km to go banner, the pace at the front heated up, and with this McLaughlin’s hopes of reaching the front end of the race to fight out the victory.

McLaughlin’s group worked well together until the last couple of laps of the finishing circuits of which there were 4. It then split up with one French rider escaping up the road with McLaughlin chasing behind and coming home in 22nd place out of a field of 80 starters, in a time of 3 hours 6 minutes. ‘It was a great race for the first of the season and very fast for the terrain’ said McLaughlin upon finishing. McLaughlin’s next race in France comes just the week after the Guernsey Easter Series.

Osborn 5th in Herm MTB XC

Jon Osborn rode well in Herm to finish in 5th place just behind Stuart Le Tissier.  Osborn is just beginning more intense interval training so we are expecting more to come.

Stapley wins Church to Church

Richard Stapley has continued with his good early season form to win the 20 mile running race.   Stapley paced his race well, not taking the lead until the 14 mile mark.  Combine Richard's good running form with his much improved cycling form, all bodes well for a great season.

McLaughlin - Race 1 : Win 1

James McLaughlin has produced his first victory of the year in a strong field in the local 5 mile Time Trial.  The course conditions were tough with a very strong southerly wind on the longest leg of the course.  However, for McLaughlin, the conditions were no obstacle as he recorded 11:00 mins.  A fantastic result for the slight rider.  The 19 year old is only just beginning some intense training so we know there is more to come.  In the same race, Ann Bowditch was the first placed woman in 13:04.

Ian Badman-Dunphy Gave the "Ashdown" Hell

Ian placed 62nd out of 1,000 entrants in the "Hell of the Ashdown" sportive in extremely challenging conditions.  The event distance was 110km with 2,000 metres of climbing over comprising 7 climbs of approximately 10-12% gradient).

Ian stayed with the group he set out with until nearing the top of the 1st hill and then jumped across to the first group that passed (Team Larkfield Cycles).  These guys were clearly top amateurs and capable riders of good form.   This did not deter Ian who stayed with them for 20-25 minutes until he got detached from the group due to an icy stretch, leaving him to do bulk of the ride on his own.  Ian held 25-26 mph on flat safe sections comfortably. and descended well where it was clearly safe to go at speed - ie where no ice was present.  A fantastic start for Ian with more to come.

Richard Stapley 4th in 2-12-2 Duathlon

Richard Stapley has started his 2010 racing with a fantastic 4th place in a time of 56:42. Into the second transition he joined leaders Alan Rowe and Luke Walton in joint 1st place.  This is a great start for Richard and looks to be an exciting season.

Stapley - is this the most impressive result of the year?

Richard Stapley produced a fantastic result in the New Forest Middle Distance Triathlon (1.9k swim, 90k bike, 21k run) to complete the course in 5:03:44, giving him 14th place and 3rd veteran out of 315 finishers.  Richard's bike leg was the 8th fastest overall showing the benefits of the work he has done on the bike.  

The lake for the swim was dead calm and warm (very brown!) and the start was from the water, treading water and in two waves.  The bike course was excellent, mixture of long hills, short rollers and long flats requiring good bike handling.  Along with negotiating long descents, there were ponies, cows, pigs, sheep etc wandering across the roads to add to the excitement!

The run was tough with a 1 mile uphill section on the road then onto forest tracks for the rest of the course. Richard took a liking to the off-road course which included plenty of short steep ups and downs.  The fun finished with a horrible uphill section back onto the road and then back downhill to the finish.

The event was clearly to Richard's liking and he will be back next year.

Podiums at the Duo Normand

The annual favourite event did not disappoint.  Ann Bowditch paired up with Lesley Walkling to complete the 42km course in 65:22 giving them second place.  Meanwhile James McLaughlinteamed up with Jersey rider, Rob Ovenden, the pair worked well together to complete the longer 54km course in 74:12 which also put them in second place.

McLaughlin continues to impress

James McLaughlin produced a storming ride in the local 5m TT to complete the course in 10:40.  Not a personal best but was way ahead of the other riders in the field on what was a blustery night.

Stapley shines in Granite Man

Richard Stapley produced a fabulous result in today's Granite Man event to complete the race in an impressive time of 4hrs 24 minutes, a massive 22 minutes quicker than last year.  Richard took 2nd place overall for his efforts.  He completed the 56 mile bike leg in 2 hrs 22 minutes. 

This followed a great result in Thursday's 5 mile time trial where he placed 5th overall taking some notable scalps.

McLaughlin places 8th in British Time Trial Championships

James McLaughlin showed great form by placing 8th in the British Time Trial Championships. This result has come off the back of a number of weekends road racing in France where the 18 year old  has performed well.  James has clearly benefited from the quality of racing abroad.

Ann's World Masters Championships

Ann Bowditch completed in the World Masters Championships in Austria.  The event attracts over 3,000 competitors across the categories and is therefore the biggest cycle event in the world.  On a blistering hot day, Bowditch placed 10th overall.  The event was won by GB rider, Sarah Storey.

Next was the World Masters Road Race.  Storey took on the pace on the first climb, only 2 km into the race.  This produced a lead group of 6, of which Bowditch was one.  The group worked well together, through and off all the way, averaging 24 mph.  The final 2 km saw the riders attack each other.  Bowditch finished in 6th place.

The final race was the Elite Women's road race held over 76 km (2 laps of the course).  The first lap was relatively calm despite a few attacks.  Storey took on the pace again, 2nd time up the main climb and once again a break of 6 formed, including  Bowditch.  The riders worked together and had a good lead on the chasing peleton.  Storey led out the sprint, Bowditch attacked with 200 m remaining but was ousted into 5th place. 

Another PB for Tim Luscombe

Congratulations to Tim Luscombe for taking 94 seconds off his 10mTT personal best time this morning by completing the local course in 25:02.

Tri Club 25mTT

AB Coaching riders had a good day out at the Tri Club 25mTT.  Richard Stapley has achieved yet another of his season's goals by producing a sub hour 25mTT.  Stapley finished the course in a time of 59:36.  Congratulations Richard.

In the same event, Ann Bowditch teamed up with Ben Walden and Tim Luscombe.  Never having ridden as a team before was not an issue, we quickly slipped into team TT mode.  Our finishing time of 57:56 made the suffering well worthwhile too.  Hopefully Tim and Ben won't have nightmares after listening to my grunting.

Meanwhile, James McLaughlin has been sent off to France for 2 days of racing in very hot temperatures and is beginning to find his racing legs again.   More on this later.

Jon Osborn on the podium again

Jon Osborn produced another strong MTB performance to take 3rd in the latest round of the MTB cross country series against possibly the strongest field seen in Guernsey racing for sometime.   Jon always produced great ramp test results and it is great to see these showing through in his racing results.

Commonwealth Games Selection for Bowditch and McLaughlin

Ann Bowditch and James McLaughlin completed the requirements set for Commonwealth Games 2010 selection this weekend at the Rudy Project Round 5 Time Trial event in Kidderminster. 

Bowditch was first to set off in the women’s category. Also competing was Olympic silver pursuit medallist and team mate, Wendy Houvenhagal who stormed to victory as she prepares for the track season with focus on the 2012 London Olympics.  Not having ridden the course had given Bowditch an added challenge.  Bowditch was looking strong on the climbs and, by the half way mark, she was catching riders that had started ahead of her and was well in her stride. 

Competitors had to face a strong headwind into the final 5 mile stretch and with rough roads made for tough going.  Bowditch finished the course in 5th place in a time of 43:09 as she continues her final few weeks of preparation for the World Masters Championships to be held in Austria.  Meanwhile, James McLaughlin placed 10th in a strong field.

Win for McLaughlin and Record for Bowditch - 8 x Talbot Loop Road Race

James McLaughlin placed joint first in the 8 laps of Talbot Loop Road Race in his third race of the weekend.  McLaughlin spent much of the race chasing down breaks but also found the energy to put in some useful attacks.  Meanwhile Ann Bowditch broke her previous record by over 13 minutes.  Tim Luscombe was looking strong on the climb but the repetitive fast pace gradually took it's toll, however he continued to ride strong with a small group to finish in 13th place whilst Ben Walden completed the course in 17th place.

Bowditch First Lady in wet 5mTT

On very slippery roads, Ann Bowditch stayed upright to place 5th overall and first on standards in the local 5mTT.  Despite a near crash whilst negotiating one of the major corners and stopping to check on another competitor who had crashed after hitting a drain cover, Bowditch completed the course in 12:05.

Tim Luscombe continues to show improvement

Tim Luscombe produce two useful climbs in the Double Pleinmont hill climb to finished in 12th place overall with a combined time of 3:29:02, followed by Ann Bowditch in 3:36:06 and Ben Walden in 3:39:02.  James McLaughlin, returned from a  break from racing, placed 2nd overall in a combined time of 3:01:07.

Stapley 4th in Inter-Insular Olympic Distance Triathlon

Richard Stapley put in yet another fine performance to finish in 2:09:51 in today's Olympic Triathlon.  This time put Richard in 4th place overall.   Richard continues to soak up the mixed discipline training and go from strength to strength.

PBs by minutes for Walden and Luscombe

Ben Walden and Tim Luscombe both produced personal best times in today's 25mTT by nearly two minutes.  Walden completed the course in a time of 62:52 and Luscombe in 63:36.  Meanwhile, I completed the course in 60:38.    It wasn't the warmest of days.  The wind was SSW moving to South averaging 10.5 mph which was probably quite favourable given the nature of the course.

Walden Podiums in MTB Tour of Guernsey

Ben Walden performed consistently well over the 7 events held in the MTB Tour of Guernsey to finish in 3rd place in the elite class.  With such a diverse range of disciplines including down hill, hill  climb, criterium, epilogue, 4 cross and two cross country events, skill, speed, and many other physical attributes were required over the week.

Walden certainly mixed it with the best MTB riders on the Island with his best performances coming in the down hill, criterium and epilogue. 

Great Result for Stapley in Feins Triathlon

Richard Stapley travelled to Feins, just outside of Rennes, France to compete at an Olympic distance triathlon on Sunday 19 July. Having trained hard in all three disciplines Richard was planning to break the 2 hour 15 minute target for the second time this season.  Having raced this event last year, Richard could really gauge his improvement with a solid year's hard training under his belt.

The swim was an improvement over the previous year and he came out of the water higher up the order in 61st place. A strong bike leg in 17th fastest time overall brought him further up the field.  The run split was also encouraging, being a few seconds faster than the previous years time.

The final result was an excellent 28th overall out of 179 in a time of 2.14.50 and 8th veteran. The time was 5.35 faster than the previous year!

Richard is now looking forward to a heavy period of racing with a further 2 Olympic distance and 2 Half Ironman distance races over the next seven weeks.

3 PB's in local 5mTT

We had some great performances in wet conditions in the local 5mTT on Thursday.  Richard Stapley placed 3rd with a time of 11:39 taking a massive chunk off his PB.  Meanwhile Ben Walden placed 5th in a new personal best time of 12:05 and Tim Luscombe placed 7th with a new PB of 12:13. I was first woman finishing in 6th place with a time of 12:12.

Luscombe moves up to Elite

Congratulations to Tim Luscombe for winning yesterday's Advanced MTB XC Race at Le Guet and with it the overall series.  Now Tim wil move up to the Elite class.  The course at Le Guet was technique with lots of tight corners so technical ability was a must.  Well done to Jon Osborn who placed fourth overall.

Stapley 4th in Petit Bot Triathlon

Well done to Richard Stapley for placing fourth overall in the Tri Club's Petit Bot Triathlon held over a 1km swin, 25km bike and 7km run.  Richard's bike leg was the 3rd fastest of the day.

McLaughlin retains both Inter-Insular Championships

James McLaughlin won a sprint finish against Jersey's Adam Wojtkiewicz in the Inter-Insular Road Race yesterday, held on the Watersplash course in Jersey.  McLaughlin's form of late has  been outstanding so went into the race as favourite.  McLaughlin and Wojtkiewicz slipped off the front and rode half the raise together.  McLaughlin used his climbing prowess to pressurise his competition as they approached the ninth and final climb.  As they approached the final corner at the top of the hill, McLaughlin was just in front but has to continue his efforts as  Wojtkiewicz was not prepared to relinquish the lead without a battle.  However, the young Guernsey man did enough to retain his road race title.  Praise and thanks must go to the whole Guernsey senior men's team for great preparation and tactics and for taking across such a strong team.

Special mention should also go to Tim Luscombe who had the race of his life and finished in 13th place.

Separately, I won the women's race which was combined with the veterans and juniors race and covered 53 miles including 8 climbs.  Congratulations also to Alan Rowe for winning the veteran's race and Ian Scholes for second place in the same race.

Thanks to Jersey for hosting a well organised event in the sunshine.

Two Champions, 3 personal bests and  a new Island record in the Inter-Insular 25 mile Time Trial

Congratulations to James McLaughlin for an impressive win the 25 mile Time Trial in which he not only achieved a PB but broke the local record to complete the course in a time of 53:10....a truely stunning ride.  Congratulations also to Ben Walden for recording a new PB of 1:04:19 on a road bike and for Tim Luscombe for setting another PB of 1:05:32.  I won the women's event in a time of 1:02:10.

Stapley 4th in Local Triathlon

Congratulations to Richard Stapley for his 4th place in today's triathlon.  Richard put in a great swim and came out of the first transition in 6th place.

McLaughlin's shines at National 25mTT

Ann Bowditch and James McLaughlin travelled to Norfolk to compete in the National 25mTT.  Conditions were far from perfect with a stiff headwind greeting competitors on the opening 12 miles, and occasional heavy showers adding to the challenge. 

Bowditch competed in the woman's race.  After a positive start, whereby she had overtaken her two minute woman and was 20 seconds away from overtaking her one minute marker, Bowditch punctured at 14 miles putting an end to what looked like being a promising ride. 

However, the day was brightened by 18 year old McLaughlin.  Competing in his first national event as a senior rider didn't faze the youngster and he wasted no time in catching his minute man just six miles into the course.  Time checks on the faster seniors showed the former junior medal winner was more than holding his own and was ahead of many of the seeded riders. 

Crossing the line in 53 minutes and 4 seconds, McLaughlin finished in a superb 15th place overall from 106 finishers.  The highest finish by a senior in the history of the Guernsey Velo Club.

McLaughlin was not only the youngest competitor in the senior event but also the only 18 year old.  The National 25 is the blue ribband event of time trials and James can claim to be amongst the very fastest riders in the country.

1st or Stapley in 7 mile Trail Run

Congratulations to Richard Stapley who took his first ever win in the GIAAC 7 mile multi-terrain run.  Having battled with achilles injuries for months, Richard has quickly got his running form back and is clearly very fit at the moment.

PB's for Bowditch & McLaughlin at Ogmore Valley Wheelers 25 Mile Time Trial

Ann Bowditch & James McLaughlin  mixed it with the top testers in the UK in one of the biggest 25 mile time trials of the season held in South Wales.  Recently crowned 10 mile National Time Trial Champions, Michael Hutchinson and Julia Shaw, were both present and did not disappoint, winning their respective categories.

There were mixed feelings over the conditions, the day was warm which is beneficial to fast times.  However, crosswinds meant that riders did not get the best advantage on the early downhill yet the return was tough.  Nevertheless, some fast times were recorded.

The coach and rider combination of Ann Bowditch and James McLaughlin both collected valuable Commonwealth Games points.  To add to that, they both recorded new off Island records.  Bowditch’s time of 58:35 beat her previous UK best by 42 seconds and placed her as 5th woman.  McLaughlin’s time of 51:07 places him as the fastest Guernsey rider over 25 miles, a superb performance by the 18 year old who finished in 6th position in a strong field.

Walden equals PB

Ben Walden had a great ride in the recent 5mTT when he equalled his personal best time of 12:26 showing a return to form, just 2 seconds ahead of his team mate, Tim Luscombe.

Podium for Stapley in Triathlon

Richard Stapley placed 3rd out of a field of 48 triathletes at the weekend.  Richard was satisfied with his swim result which was followed by a speedy bike leg overtaking about 10 competitors and a reasonable run.  Improvements to be made on his transition, usually a strong point for RIchard, will make up time.  Nevertheless, a very positive result.

4 Laps of Coudre/ Vazon Road Race

Despite the fact that some of our fastest riders were away competing in Jersey the pace set in today's road race was fierce, especially up the main climb where the damage was done.   Some riders were dropped on the first climb whilst the majority survived.  However, more damage was done on the 2nd climb. Tim Luscombe nearly made it with the leaders but just missed out and we ended up with an AB Coaching team workout for a lap as Tim was joined by Ann Bowditch and Ben Walden.

By the third climb, it was down to Tim and myself working hard on through 'n' off with chasers in sight.  We managed to hold them off until the final 4 miles when 2 riders joined us.  We then split and I out sprinted Matt Le Huray for 9th place overall, meanwhile Tim out sprinted Stefano Rizzuto for 11th place and Ben Walden placed 13th.

Bowditch First Woman in 10mTT & PB for Stapley

Richard Stapley continues to show improving form with yet another PB in Thursday's windy 10mTT .   Stapley finished in a time of 24:18 giving him 9th place overall.  Top tens are hard to come by nowadays so it's great to see Richard in there.  Riders had to contend with a strong westerly wind which makes Richard's improvement all the more impressive.

Ann Bowditch was first woman completing the course in a time of 25:23 finishing 14th overall in a field of 32. Ben Walden placed 19th in a time of 26:29 showing improving form following a winter of discontent which involved a long spell off the bike recovering from an injury as a result of an MTB crash.

Win for Luscombe in MTB XC at Pleinmont

A great win for "The Stig" (Tim Luscombe) in the Advanced section of the MTB race.  Here is Tim's take on the race:

"Going into the race I wasn't that confident as the morning before my legs had felt really bad on my race prep ride, the race was at the end of a hard couple of weeks racing and training.  However my worries about not having good legs was soon dismissed after a couple of practice laps.  Clearly had I not done a race prep I would have had the legs from the day before!!

The course was not too technical with one long drag up hill through a field and up a single track.  Followed by a gravel path which was mostly into a strong head wind.  This type of course suits my 'roadie' riding style.  That power which is so well hidden came into play.

I let the championship leader set the pace early on as he has historically been the stronger rider.  Around the half way point he washed out on a sweeping right hander.  Seeing an opportunity to make a gap I pushed hard on the next couple of laps.  Seeing I had ridden well clear I continued to ride hard lapping riders from my class and eventually caught the rider I was originally riding with to put a lap on him."

PB for Stapley in Rennes Tri

Congratulations to Richard Stapley for achieving his 2:10.59 Olympic Distance Triathlon in Rennes.  Richard came in an impressive 60th out of 233 competitorsand 14th Veteran out of 96. 

Preparations for the event have been hampered by an achilles injury, however, this has given Richard the opportunity to put more focus into his cycling which has paid off. 

Richard travelled with Guernsey Triathletes Alan Rowe and Jon Greenfield to compete at Rennes Triathlon in France.  He raced over the Olympic distance of 1500m swim, 40km bike and 10km run. The swim was open water, being in a freshwater lake.

Richard's previous best was 2hr 20mins so he was delighted with such a huge improvement on his PB . Richard has worked hard over the winter on his swimming and cycling and this has paid off with 5 min gains in both disciplines. The bike leg was over a five lap circuit of closed roads and the run was on paths around the lake.

Richard is now training to dip under the 2hr 10mins time in the Inter Insular Triathlon later this year.

McLaughlin Victorious on Liberation Day

James McLaughlin took victory in the Liberation Day Road Race over the tough 5 3/4 lap L'Eree circuit.  McLaughlin was suffering from his yearly bout of hayfever and agreed to start the race and see how he felt.  This makes the youngster's victory all the more impressive.  McLaughlin had the lead group diminished to just three riders and comfortably won the sprint.  Meanwhile, Ann Bowditch, was the only women in the race battling it out with the guys coming in just 2 minutes behind the winners. Tim Luscombe continued to show improvement and showed strength in his group on the climb.

Stapley continues to improve

Richard Stapley is moving on the ranks in time trialling with a useful 9th place in today's 10mTT to complete the course in 24:47 on wet roads.  Meanwhile Michael Mann won his category in a time of 30:53.

XC Podium for Osborn

Congratulations to Jon Osborn for taking second place in the second round of the Summer MTB XC Series held at Chouet.  This course is predominantly flat with some technical sections.  After getting in a good start, Jon lost touch with the leader when another rider crashed in front of him but nevertheless collected some useful points to place him 2nd in the series after two races.

Meanwhile Michael Mann, fresh from his 10mTT PB the previous day, produced a fantastic performance to finish in 1st place in the under 14 category.

More wins for McLaughlin and Bowditch and new PB for Michael Mann

James McLaughlin produced yet another 21 minute 10mTT this Saturday to win the event.  Meanwhile I was first woman with a mid 24 minute ride.  Congratulations also to Michael Mann for completing the course in 29:39 - a new PB and a bronze standard.

McLaughlin Impresses at L'Eree Hill Climb

James McLaughlin took a convincing win in the L'Eree Hill Climb to complete the course on what was not a fast night in 4:33, 25 seconds clear of his closest opponent.   Well done also to Jon Osborn who placed 4th with a time of 5:16.  Meanwhile I was first and only lady and completed the hill in 5:51. 

Easter Racing

Guernsey - 25m TT - Win for McLaughlin, PB for Stapley and Bowditch gains valuable Commonwealth Games points

James McLaughlin showed he is the man to beat by producing his second win of the Easter weekend.  McLaughlin put in a fine performance to win today's 25mTT in 54:36 on the L'Eree course.  Meanwhile, Richard Stapley produced a PB finishing in 61:48 despite feeling the affects of the previous four races.

I was pleased to obtain 10 Commonwealth Games points, the maximum that can be obtained locally, with my time of 61:53 (a sub 62 was required).  I will now need to obtain a further 20 points in UK races during the course of the season to complete the qualification criteria.

Well done also to Michael Mann for his first place in the 4.5 mile juvenile handicap event.

Guernsey - Scratch Road Race - 4 x L'Eree Circuit - 2nd Record of the Weekend for Bowditch

We were back on the L'Eree circuit today.  The pace was frantic from the off with the faster riders setting the early pace on the climb just yards from the start, to break up the race. James McLaughlin was there in the first group in his first road race of the season.  Under instruction not to push to hard, McLaughlin was never under stress and finished comfortably in 6th place.

Meanwhile, it's fair to say, I had a very tough road race as I found myself in the second group.  Initially I spent most of my efforts on watching 3 of my riders who were in there with me.  However, second time up the hill saw a break which I made.  Our group was down to 7 but it was a fast pace with the first two laps being completed in 38 mins.  I was delighted to break the allcomers record by 4 minutes and my local record by 5 minutes.  This just shows the pace that was being set.. 

Meanwhile, Richard Stapley was riding strongly whilst working with the more experienced Tim Holmes.  Richard finished in a credible 18th place and is beginning to show a liking for road racing. 

Guernsey - 10m TT - McLaughlin Still Eyes Up the Record

James McLaughlin was the clear winner in the Easter 10mTT.  Once again, so close to the record, the 18 year old has started the season where he finished last year, threatening the senior records.  James' time of 21:19 in far from perfect conditions was just 3 seconds shy of the outright record.  Surely the record has to go in 2009!!

Meanwhile, I was surprised and delighted with my performance of 24:32.  It is unusual for me to be quite so fast after just a few races.  The improving Richard Stapley came in just behind me in 24:44.  Youngster Michael Mann also put in a good performance to finish in 32:09.

Guernsey - Handicap Road Race - 3 x L'Eree Circuit - Record for Bowditch

A late course change took riders up Pleinmont hill 3 times.  Four groups set off this morning.  Richard Stapley set off in 2nd group at 6m 30s following a 3rd placing in the previous week's road race which saw him move up from the first group off.  Richard is still new to this road racing game but is learning quickly and gaining  in confidence.   Richard finished in 10th place overall with a (real) time of 1.02.13.   Meanwhile, Ann Bowditch placed 24th overall with a (real) time of 1:00:51, taking 2 minutes off her previous record.

Jersey - Handicap Road Race - 4 x Watersplash

Kim Ashton was comfortably first woman over 4 laps of Jersey's Watersplash circuit in wet and windy conditions.

Guernsey - 1 km Prologue

James McLaughlin returned to racing to take 2nd place over the 1km prologue, losing out to Aaron Bailey by just 1/10th of a second.  This was particularly impressive given James' small build and the fact that he has just come off winter training.  Plenty more to come. 

Michael Mann finished as first under 14 in a time of 1:41.

Winter Duathlon Series - Round 1 - Richard Stapley shows good form

Richard Stapley showed great early season form when he competed in the first event of the Guernsey Tri Club winter duathlon series yesterday which consisted of a 2 mile run from the Imperial to the old fish factory at L’Eree and back, a 12 mile bike out to Grande Rocque and back and another 2 mile run.

He placed 4th out of a record turnout of 44 participants in close to freezing conditions with a strong north easterly wind - that's not to mention what the wind chill factor must have been!

Positions 2 to 7 were competitively contested with placings swapping throughout the race.  Following a strong period of bike training, Richard achieved the second fastest bike split of the field, only 6 seconds behind winner Ian Scholes.  This gave Richard 2nd place coming out of transition onto the final run, only to be overtaken by strong runners Matt Dorrian and John Greenfield on the final run.

Richard is recovering from an Achilles tendon injury, which occurred just before Christmas, and is  now looking to improve on his run speed over the next few weeks.  Next on Richard's program is a weeks warm weather training at Club La Santa - Lanzarote where he will be cycling and swimming every day.

See gsytriclub.org.gg for full results

Richard Stapley takes on the 2008 Aquathlon

Well done to Richard Stapley for a solid performance in the aquathlon by finishing the senior event in 8th place.  The acquathlon was a combination of a swim in Beau Sejour's pool and a run.  Richard is more of an endurance athlete, having competed earlier this year in the Granite Man (Half Ironman) event, however his total time for the whole event was 15:57 which felt like more of a sprint.  Richard can boast the 4th fastest run time of the day.

McLaughlin continues to climb the ranks at the National Hill Climb

James McLaughlin put in a great performance to finish 13th overal and as 3rd junior at the National Hill Climb held at Matlock Bath.  The hill was as tough as they get, it starts off steep and just gets steeper, by the half way point you are at the toughest section.  The hill only eases off about 100 metres from the finish.  This has come at the end of a very long, competitive and successful season for James.  He has improved hugely over the last 12 months.  Next year the 18 year old moves into espoir ranks so will be another steep learning curve.

McLaughlin and Bowditch in Scotchman Lane Hill Climb

James McLaughlin came up against the best hill climber in the country, Matt Clinton.  Clinton has been winning hill climbs all over the country over recent weeks.  This includes beating the reigning National Hill Climb Champion, James Dobbin, by 18 seconds the day before the youngster came to compete against him.

Clinton got in a good start on the 1 mile climb, the first half of which was the steeper section at 14% gradient, over the brow the gradient was not as severe and the climbers were able to engage their large chainring as they gained momentum.  At the half way point McLaughlin was 10 seconds down on Clinton but looking strong.  In the second half of the race the Guernsey youngster only lost a further second to finish 11 seconds adrift of the winner in 3:03. 

Meanwhile, Ann Bowditch was the only female competitor to take part in the race.  Undeterred Bowditch put in a good performance and was looking strong throughout the climb to finish in 5th place overall with a time of 3:40.

Stapley sets PB in Cliff Path Run

Richard Stapley put in an impressive performance in the 15 mile cliff path run from town to Pleinmont to record a time of 2.10.45, which placed him 5th overall.  This is an incredibly tough course requiring plenty of strength, stamina and good balance.

McLaughlin and Osborn both Podium in Val des Terres Hill Climb

Jon Osborn pulled out an impressive result in the Val des Terres Hill Climb in horrendous conditions.  With the road scattered in debris and force 6-8 winds to contend with on the final 3rd of the climb Jon finished in 3rd place in a time of 2:29.  James McLaughlin, meanwhile, finished in second place in an impressive time of 2:08.

Bowditch achieves Guernsey sub hour 25mTT

14 years after taking up cycling, I have finally achieved a long sought after goal, a sub hour 25 mile Time Trial in Guernsey.  This is the first ever sub hour ride over the distance by a female in Guernsey.  It was tight though, I sprinted for the line to finish in 59:59. 

Things seemed to be going well on the road when I caught riders that I am normally competing against and other riders that would normally put time into me didn't.  I can't begin to say how ecstatic I am at achieving this.

Sub-Hour for Mann, Win for McLaughlin and PB or Stapley

A.B. Coaching riders were the talk of the 25mTT, with Nick Mann producing his first ever sub hour 25mTT, completing the course in 59:51 off the back of his Duo Normand training.  James McLaughlin produced yet another win, something we are all getting very used to.  Meanwhile, Richard Stapley completed the course in 62 mins, which was an impressive personal best, taking 4 minutes of his previous best time.

Gage wins JCA 5mTT Championship

Paul Gage must have been hot favourite for the JCA 5mTT Championship after winning all events in the recent 5mTT series.  Paul did not disappoint, taking victory in a time of 10:55, the only sub 11 minute ride in a field of 40 riders. 

McLaughlin On Fire

James McLaughlin produced a stunning ride, despite a strong north easterly wind, in the last 5mTT of the CMC  series, to claim both the Senior and Junior records.  This is the 17 year old's first  Senior record.    Nick Mann continued his improving form with a time of 11:53, closely followed by Ann Bowditch in 11:55.

No Stopping Gage in 5mTT Series

Caesarean Cycling Club's Paul Gage continued his dominance of the evening 5mile time trial series, which ended with another blistering ride of sub 11 minutes in windy conditions - making it four wins out of four.

Gage, who is returning to the saddle this season after some time away from competitive cycling, has dominated the evening 5 mile time trial series with a string of convincing victories. His ride on Tuesday evening, held in blustery conditions where a strong NE headwind made the first leg of the course along the Five Mile Road from La Saline difficult, was the only one that was under 11 minutes.  Gage could also boast the fastest ride of the series with 10:42.

Dave Mayman finished in 5th place in a time of 11:38.

Duo Normand - Win for Bowditch & Wright

There was a fine turnout and some even finer results from AB Coaching riders at the Duo Normand this year.

Guernsey was represented by Ann Bowditch and Terry Wright in the mixed category.  Wright set off at a good pace against a strong headwind and the Sarnians caught their first set of competitors less than a mile into the course.  Wright was showing great strength as they overtook team after team with Bowditch taking shorter turns to allow him some rest.  Halfway around the course the riders hit Bowditch’s favoured terrain of hills and she looked comfortable throughout.  Wright was fighting muscle cramp on the final 12 km but managed to ride through the muscle spasms.  The end result was a Guernsey win in a time of 1:23:35.  This is a second win for Bowditch and for Wright, his first in the mixed category to add to his previous two veteran wins.

The exciting pairing of James McLaughlin and Daniel Arblaster rode their first Duo Normand in the Junior category.  Both riders looked comfortable along the flatter section of the course despite the windy day.  Into the climbs and disaster struck, Arblaster’s rear wheel had moved and was rubbing on the frame, meaning a dismount to readjust the wheel, costing the riders valuable time.  As the pairing came through the town they looked strong.  The competition in the junior category was impressive, the winning time being 1:14:51, the fastest category winning time of the day with the exception only of the elite riders.  McLaughlin and Arblaster also impressed with a time of 1:16:49, the fastest ever ride by a Guernsey team, to put them in 4th place.

In a Veteran field of 41 pairings, with riders from France and England, Dave Mayman and Kevin Pilley had a great Duo.  They completed the challenging  54km course at an average speed of just over 25mph to take second spot.   This is the fastest Dave has ever covered the course.  Out of the 13 Jersey pairings, Dave and Kev were the fastest over the course so a great day out for the pairing.

Nick Mann and Tim Martin also competed in the Veteran category.  Both riders worked smoothly through the flatter section of the course, including the difficult marshes area before hitting the climbs.  Mann was having the better day and took to the front for the climbs.  Together they worked well to finish in a time of 1:29:00 in a very creditable 13th place. 

Gage Flying in 5mTT

Paul Gage produced his third win out of 3 in Jersey's 5mTT Series.  Paul finished in a time of 10:42, 12 seconds clear of second place.

Mann Keeps Clean Record in MTB XC Summer Series

Nick Mann produced yet another fine win in the MTB XC Summer Series held at Talbot Valley, in the Veteran category.    Mann's technical skills were as impressive as ever, which enabled him to ride the whole course when many riders had to dismount.

Meanwhile triathlete, Richard Stapley, took to the turf and produced a great ride to finish in third place.

Mayman and Pilley Show Great Form

Jersey's pairing of Dave Mayman and Kevin Pilley topped the field in the Reverse Around the Island Team Time Trial as riders prepared for the forthcoming Duo Normand in France next weekend.  In bright conditions - but with a heavy early morning dew requiring caution on some of the bends - the CCC veteran pair were quickest home in 1:11:20, just under two minutes clear of nearest two-up challengers.  Mayman has been part of the winning team at the Duo Normand previously and is looking to repeat that success this year with his friend, Kevin.

In the same event Paul Gage produced another fine performance as a solo rider, finishing in a time of 1:11:35 only 9 seconds behind the winner and was the 3rd best time of the day including the team riders.

Riders Show Great Progress in 10m TT

Both Richard Stapley and Jamie Burtenshaw have shown great progression in time trials this year.  Richard finished the 10mTT on a slow course in 25:00 only one second behind his ole coach.   Jamie was only 7 seconds back on a road bike.  Riders had to contend with a strong westerly wind which really upset the rhythm due to the changes in direction across the coast road.

Some Great Results in CMC 5 mile Time Trial Series Event

James McLauglin produced a great ride on busy roads to finish in 2nd place in the CMC sponsored Time Trial Series event.  In the same event Ann Bowditch placed 12th overall and as first women in a field of 32 riders.  One of the best rides of the day has to go to Jamie Burtenshaw who finished in a superb 14th place using  a road bike with no tri bars.  Jamie is showing that he has good all round ability and improving all the time.

Another Win for Gage

Paul Gage produced a fantastic ride in Jersey's 5mTT to win in a time of 10:52, 16 seconds clear of second place.  Paul is really notching up the wins.

Jon Osborn 3rd in Reservoir Road Race

Jon Osborn had one of his best road races to finish 3rd on the 5 lap hilly Reservoir circuit.  This was a scratch road race with many riders not wanting to show their hand too early.  This meant the majority of the peleton stayed together until the latter points of the race.   The pace was fierce on the climbs, which had riders seesawing off and back on the pack.  A decisive move was made towards the end of lap 4 containing  7 riders.  Jon put in a great final sprint on the final climb to the finish line to take 3rd place.

Stapley Third in 7 mile cliff path run

Richard Stapley placed 3rd in the gruesome Pleinmont to Petit Bot cliff path run.  These cliff paths are unforgiving with unstable ground, nasty rises and steps to deal with.  

Mayman Wins JCA Hill Climb Title

Dave Mayman has shown that he is the best Veteran hill climber in Jersey with a superb win on Bouley Bay.  Overall Mayman placed 6th, 6 seconds clear of the second placed veteran finishing the climb in 2:25.  In the same event, Paul Gage produced a great 4th place in the senior category in a time of 2:14.

National Silver for James McLaughlin

James McLaughlin has produced another outstanding performance to finish second in the British Time Trial Championships this weekend.  The course was shortened by 2 miles per lap due to flooding, meaning that the total distance covered was 14 miles.  The circuit was a sporting course to the liking of the Guernsey rider.  This result adds another National medal to James' National 10 silver.  The 17 year old has much to play for yet this season with the National Hill Climb to look forward to.

Win in 5mTT for Gage

Paul Gage took the top podium place in Jersey's first 5 mile Time Trial series event.  Conditions were tough and blustery but Paul's smooth riding style sealed victory.

Bowditch at World Masters

I had some satisfying results at the World Masters Road Race and Time Trial Championships in Austria.  I placed 7th in the time trial and 6th in the road race.  The time trial is held on a predominantly flat 20km course on closed roads.  This was an improvement in time and placing on last year (in similar conditions).

The road race did not initially go so smoothly, a few km in, just as we hit the bottom of the main climb, I dropped my chain.  This put me at the back of the field having to work my way towards the front passing riders who were finding the hill tough.  I managed to get to the front and pushed the pace.  Although a small group of us had formed at the front, a strong Italian team were having none of it and refused to work.  No-one was keen to drag them around, which allowed other riders, including the other members of their team, to get back on.  The race was tactical and there were many attacks.  Again, on the second climb, I tried to split things up with a similar result to the first climb.

An attack by an Italian, 800m from the finish, gave her the win, despite the efforts of last year's Russian winner to claw her back.  It was an Italian 1 -2 (so their tactics paid off) with Russia third and me taking 6th about a bike length back.

Bowditch - International Alpine Champion

I couldn't resist the opportunity to race an 11.5 km hill climb as a prelude to the World Masters Road Race and Time Trial Championships.  I was surprised by the format, this was not the usual time trial style event.  We all set off together, so it was more like a road race. 

About 1km in, we hit a very nasty part of the course.  I decided not to make any early moves but when one of the riders decided to split things up, I went with her.  One other rider was able to come to us.  About 7.5 km, we hit the next nasty section of the course, I had ridden very cagily up to this point.  I was feeling good and decided there was no need to make a move just yet.  The course was getting steeper and I expected that my opponent may weaken as the course steepens, partly due to the fact that she was not as "petite" as me and I expected the climb would tire her quicker than it would me. 

One of the riders was beginning to suffer and dropped off the pace.  This left two of us.  I waited until the 500m remaining sign and made my move, I gave it all I had, didn't afford a look back until about 100m to go, when I did look back, I couldn't see my opponent.  I had put 52 seconds into her in that final, very steep, section of the course to take the victory.

Stapley puts in Superb Granite Man Performance

Richard Stapley competed in the first "Granite Man" Middle Distance Triathlon in Guernsey on 31 August and finished a superb 9th out of 60 competitors.  Richard's combined time was 4hrs 47mins. The event consisted of a 1.9km swim in Pembroke Bay, a 90km bike ride and half marathon run to finish. Richard was pleased with all of the time splits and especially pleased to be well under his original 5hr target despite very rough sea conditions.  He was also second veteran after the overall event winner and experience triathlete, Alan Rowe.

Richard originally asked me for help to improve the cycling discipline in March this year and he followed a training programme which has led to noticeable improvements in his performances.  We are now working on a winter programme as preparation for next year's Olympic and Middle distance races.

10mTT - Record for Bowditch and Wright

I teamed up with Terry Wright once again and, for the second time in two weeks, we took a record.   We knocked 20 seconds off the mixed record, previously held Chris Le Page and me, to finish in a time of 22:45.  The record was all the sweeter because we were racing on a revised course, which was slower than our normal course, due to roadworks.   This will be our last team TT together for a few weeks as I am off to Austria for the World Masters.

AB Coaching were out in force with Richard Stapley and Jamie Burtenshaw posting times in the 25 minute bracket.  In doing so, Richard took a minute off his prevous best.   James McLaughlin paired up with Dan Arblaster but unfortunately Dan punctured before the halfway point.  James continued to post a time of 21:19 which was the fastest ride of the day. 

Stapley in Inter-Insular Middle Distance Tri

Richard Stapley competed in the Jersey Olympic Distance Triathlon on Sunday 17 August, which doubled up as the Inter Insular Race.  He finished in an impressive 24th position out of 90 competitors in a time of 2.21.40.

After the steady swim, in his least favoured of the 3 disciplines, Richard put in a solid 40km bike leg and an excellent 39 minute 10km run and was pleased with the overall result.  His cycling improvements, coupled with his running strength are encouraging as he puts in final preparations for the Guernsey Granite Man half ironman event in two weeks time.  Richard is targeting a finish time of 5 hours and has trained specifically for this distance since completing the Paris Marathon at the end of April.

Gage & Mayman 1st & 2nd in 10mTT

Paul Gage rode solo in Jersey's 10mTT but that did not stop him from taking an impressive victory.  Paul described the conditions as awkward with a cross/head wind on the outward leg, then a tail/cross on the return.  Paul is going from strength to strength with each race he does.

Meanwhile, Dave Mayman continued his superb season, this time pairing up with his Duo Partner, Kevin Pilley.  The veterans put in a very impressive ride to finish second overall and as first team.

Records for McLaughlin and Bowditch & Wright in Guernsey's 25mTT

Despite far from perfect conditions, some great times were posted on the newly devised L'Eree 25mTT course. I rode with my Duo partner, Terry Wright, and we placed as second team in a time of 56:36.  To read more about our ride click here.

James McLaughlin recorded a new 25 mile junior record in a time of 54:11  Another great ride came from Dave Mayman to place as second solo rider in a superb time of 58:05, a great result on a relatively unfamiliar course for the CCC rider.

Gage wins 15kmTT & Mayman Strong in 2 Up

Paul Gage put in a stunning performance to beat all single and team riders in Jersey's 15mTT.  Paul recorded a time of 21:05 in hideous gale force conditions.  Meanwhile, Dave Mayman teamed up with Simon Fenton and showed great strength, the pairing placed as second team in a time of 22:09.

McLaughlin 14th in National Junior Road Race

A very tough course and quality field greeted our young star in the National Junior Road Race. 

More details to follow.

Gage 3rd in Jay Morris Memorial Road Race at Hougue Bie

Paul Gage took a great third place in the Jay Morris Memorial Road Race in Jersey.  With one rider off the front on a lone break, Paul was in in the chasing group of 5 and put in a strong finish to take 3rd.

Duo Practice for Bowditch & Wright

At long last, I paired up with my Duo partner, Terry Wright, in our first Duo Normand practice of the year.  I must admit as we were counted down from 10 seconds the nerves really kicked in.  We had a great ride, Terry is such a smooth rider.  I was pleased that I was able to do some useful turns on the front but I expect, as "the Gov" begins to really focus on his training in the run up to the Duo, that my share of the work will be less and less.  It will certainly be interesting so watch this space.

Mayman & Cann Pair Up

Dave Mayman paired up with one of Jersey's Island Games riders, Ali Cann, in the local 10mTT held on the L'Etacq course.  The pairing finished 2nd overall and working with Ali proved to be a useful workout for Dave.

Osborn Third in MTB XC

Jon Osborn took a useful 3rd place in the Guernsey MTB XC held at the Guet.  The course included fast flowing sections and energy sapping climbs through pine needles.

James McLaughlin in France

James McLaughlin’s second race on French soil, was a 110km road race just north of Nantes. It was another gruelling race over a rolling 7km circuit. A field of 72 started the race with attacks coming constantly.

For the first few laps James ‘played safe’ and held position in the middle of the third group. After 5 of the 16 laps, he began to make his way up the field. First, he broke away from the third group with two others, finding the second, chasing group, within a lap. From here the 17 year old joined others in an attempt to chase down the leading three riders. However, their lead proved unstoppable and the first three places went to the three Category 1 riders. 

James stayed within the chasing group, finishing in a useful 19th position overall and first Junior.

James’ third race in France, was a town criterium, just south of La Roche sur Yon.

There were many attacks at the start with frequent single and group attacks being made and then chased down.  It was not until the final 30 minutes of the race that things became more serious.  With four laps remaining James was holding second position, approximately 10 seconds behind a breakaway rider.  As he crossed the line with two laps to go, he was in fourth position but soon after made an attack on the single climb of the course.

Much to the excitement of the French commentator, James was now in the lead as he approached the final lap.  His lead at this stage was 10 seconds.  He managed to hold the lead right up to 200m from the finish, when the pride of the chasing Frenchmen proved too great and he finished in 9th position overall and again 1st Junior.

Jersey's 10mTT at L'Etacq

Paul Gage has won the L'Etacq 10 mile Time Trial by 15 seconds in 22:57 on a less than perfect day.  Meanwhile, Dave Mayman took 4th overall in the same race and came in as second veteran in 23:29.   Great to see both guys at the top of the field.

Double Pleinmont Hill Climb

Tough conditions were there to greet us for the double Pleinmont hill climb.  A strong headwind meant that times were going to be slow.  I placed 7th overall for the two hills, inside the top half as the only female to compete.

Gage & Mayman at Corbiere

My exciting new rider, Paul Gage, placed 4th in the Corbiere Road Race in Jersey and formed part of a breakaway group including Commonwealth Games rider, Chris Spence.  The pace of the race was erratic with plenty of attacks going in. Meanwhile, in the same race, Dave Mayman put in a great performance to finish in 5th place overall and as first veteran.  Dave was the only veteran to make the break.

McLaughlin's First Taste of French Road Racing

James McLaughlin started his summer of racing in France with a podium finish, as second Junior. The Avessac Grand Prix, open to 1st, 2nd and 3rd category Seniors and Juniors, was a tough choice for his first race, but a challenge that he was keen to take.

James waited at the start line ready for 24 laps of 4.6km over rolling countryside – totalling to 110.4km. The first five laps saw challenges made from some strong riders. James responded and managed to stay in 4th position and in the first break away group over the first few laps, much to the excitement of the commentator who was struggling to pronounce such a difficult surname! As the race progressed, further challenges were made by the first break of the day being brought back into the fold and James along with it. Almost immediately a counter attack was formed and a new lead group of predominantly 1st category riders was established.

At this stage, James found himself leading the chasing group. He spent much of the racing hopping from the chasing group to lead group. On the final lap of the race, James, with others, kept the pressure on within the first group, but unfortunately, a small group of 3 jumped away with approximately 3km to go. At this stage James was left on the front of the group having to chase down with the help of a few others. By the time the group got to 300 meters to go, the gap was closed to just 10 seconds but unfortunately wasn’t closed by the time they got to the line. James crossed the line in a very creditable 23rd position overall, and second junior. The finishing time was just over 2 hours 37 minutes. 

Mayman Top Veteran in Round the Bays Road Race

Dave Mayman had a superb race in Jersey's Round the Bays Road Race.  The event is one of the toughest on the Jersey calendar given the tough climbs coming out of the various bays.  Mayman showed great strength early on being the only veteran rider to go with an early break.  However, unfortunately this was pulled back. 

Later two seniors managed to successfully stay away but Dave persevered and was nearly rewarded when he attacked at Fliquet but found three horses being led up the lane with no way of getting passed so had to sit behind them, allowing his competitors to catch him.  Perils of Island life taking their toll once again.

Finally Dave pushed again on St Catherines, which caused another split leaving Dave with a group of 5 riders and he put in a strong sprint to take 6th place overall and top veteran.

Richard's Olympic Tri in Brittany

Richard Stapley produced a great result to finish in 89th place out of 193 competitors in France over the weekend.  His time of 2:20 was a massive 12 minute improvement on his September performance despite a much slower course, showing that the added focus on his cycling and swimming is paying off without an adverse effect on his running.

McLaughlin's First European Road Race

James McLaughlin competed in his first European Road Race in France this weekend.   There were a mix of categories including Regionals 1, 2 and 3 as well as juniors.  James rode strongly to finish in 23rd place and as 2nd junior.  A great start to the next phase of the 17 year old's development.

Petite Bot Double Hill Climb - 3 Records in 1 Evening

AB Coaching were on fire tonight on the Double Petite Bot Hill Climb.  I broke the 6 minute barrier for the first time with 5:59 so a new record for me.  Then Jamie Burtenshaw broke James McLaughlin's record from 2007 with a fantastic time of 4:56 which gave him 3rd place - just take that one in for a moment.  Finally our very own mountain goat, James McLaughlin, rocketed to the top with a record time of 4:42.  Tonight was the first time that anyone has gone inside 5 minutes for the 2 climbs.  In case you are wondering, we didn't have a tail wind, a fairly strong westerly blowing at us, although it is more sheltered on the lower sections.  Bring on the National Hill Climb!!

GIACC 5km Club Championship Run

Richard Stapley is holding his running form well and produced a great run on the track to finish in a time of 18:24.  This bodes well in preparation for his Olympic Triathlon in Brittany this weekend.

Mayman's Perfect Pacing

Dave Mayman produced a fantastic result in the double Greve de L'ecq hill climb.  The first side of the hill was short and steep, riders were given 5 minutes from returning to the bottom of the hill before starting the other side, a longer climb of lower gradient.  Mayman paced his rides to perfection, placing 6th overall after the first hill but coming in stronger on the second climb to finish with a combined time of 6:57 placing him 3rd overall and as 1st Veteran.  This gives Dave the hill series win despite only completing two out of the three races.

Tri Club 9.5 mile Sporting TT

Guernsey's two young cycling stars, James McLaughlin and Dan Arblaster teamed up to win on a new course devised by Tom Becker due to roadworks on one of our major roads.  They produced a winning time of 21:03, winning by over a minute from the 2nd place two up.

Bowditch and McLaughlin lead Tri Club 5mTT

James McLaughlin produced another great victory on another windy night in the Tri Club's 5mTT recording a time of 10.49.  I placed 2nd overall and first woman in a time of 12.09.  Richard Stapley also placed high up the field in 5th with a time of 12:51.  James and I also did a team time trial and completed that in a time of 11:39 despite a big traffic hold up - a problem which is haunting Channel Island riders and unfortunately a situation which is unlikely to improve.

Mayman 5th in 15km TT

Dave Mayman returned from a short break to take 5th place in the Trinity Hill to La Pulente  15km TT despite traffic problems.  This also placed Dave as third veteran overall in a tightly fought contest with the first 9 riders inside 21 minutes.

Stapley 5th in Local Triathlon

Richard Stapley continues to move up the ranks with a 5th place in a local triathlon on a wet and windy day with force 7 winds to contend with.    The event comprised an 800 metre swim, 16 mile bike and 4.75 mile run.

L'Etape du Tour

Jamie Burtenshaw and Jon Osborn were two of 7,500 cyclists to embark on this fantastic event from Pau to Hautacam covering 169 km.   The event included the Col du Tourmalet with an ascent of 23.4 km and a 7.5% gradient and Hautacam with an ascent of 15.2 km and a 7.2% gradient.  Both these guys trained for the event on our little climbs in Guernsey doing extra hours after races.  Jamie completed the event in 6hrs 28.  I am waiting to hear how Jon has got on.

Another big victory margin for McLaughlin

He's done it again, James McLaughlin, won the 10mTT in strong SW winds gusting to force 7, with a time of 22:02 and a victory margin of 1:36 from 2nd place.  Meanwhile I was first woman and placed 11th overall in 25:09.

More wins for McLaughlin & Bowditch

James McLaughlin produced another great ride to win the 5mTT on a blustery evening, in an impressive time of 10:46.  Meanwhile I was first women home in a time of 12:26 whilst suffering a mechanical.

McLaughlin wins Guernsey's 100km Road Race Championships

What a great day of racing for AB Coaching with five of our riders competing in today's event.  After a tactical first two laps, James McLaughlin decided to push the pace, which led to a group of 5 riders leading the race.   It was great to have both McLaughlin and Jamie Burtenshaw in the break with me in the chasing peleton where we were pushing the though 'n' off. 

Jamie dropped back to our group after a few laps in the lead group but not before he made his presence known with some solid work on the front.  With two (of 8) laps to go, James made his move and put the best part of 90 seconds into the the 2nd placed rider.  Meanwhile, I was delighted to finish in 6th place with Jamie just behind in 7th following an attempt at an early sprint.  Jon Osborn finished in 11th place (tbc).  Also very well done to Richard Stapley who put himself in at the deep end with this his first road race and finished in 15th place.

Mayman at La Pierre Le Bigaut Cyclosportif

Dave Mayman completed a "fast paced" Pierre Le Bigaut Cyclosportive over 160 km in a time of 4:08.  Dave has completed three randonees/cyclosportives in the past two weeks and, following a short break, will turn his focus back to local races in the run up to the Duo Normand.

MTB XC  Wins for Burtenshaw & Mann, Elite Podium for Osborne

Jamie Burtenshaw took another victory in the Advanced class of the local MTB XC series held at Camptrehard.  Jamie continues to improve and has adjusted extremely well to structured training despite working shifts.

Jon Osborne pulled off a useful podium to finish third in the Elite field also at Comptrehard as he prepares himself for his first L'Etape on 6 July.  Osborn and Burtenshaw have pulled together on some training sessions and are clearly getting plenty out of these. 

Meanwhile, Nick Mann, pulled off yet another victory in his first season as a Veteran.

Tough Conditions for Tough Riders in Guernsey's 50m TT

Ann Bowditch overcame tough conditions in a small field to finish 2nd overall and first lady in Guernsey's 50m TT.  There was a strong SW blowing up to force 6 to start the day off, however, about 50 mins into the race the wind picked up even more, causing some riders to abandon and one rider was blown into a parked van (thank goodness it was parked).  I was just thankful I had decided not to use the four spoke otherwise it could have been very nasty for me too.  I finished the ride in 2:07:58 and, given the conditions, was delighted with that time.

McLaughlin Breaks Junior 5 Mile Record

He has done it again.  James McLaughlin smashed the junior 5 mile time trial record to record a time of 10:48 in far from perfect conditions.  With cross winds blowing at force 4 to 5, the senior record was looking tough.  However, this ride clearly shows that all James needs is a fair crack at the senior record and it is his for the taking.  James is off to the next round of the National Junior Road Race Series this weekend.

Bonne Nuit Double Hill Climb

Dave Mayman produced two superb hill climbs to be placed 2nd overall and as 1st Veteran in a very tough evening of hill climbing on Jersey's Bonne Nuit hill. Riders had only 5 minutes once they returned to the bottom of the west side before hitting the east side.  I stayed over from the Inter-Insular and was the only female daft enough to compete and placed 8th overall.  Both climbs had gradients of around 20% in places. 

Thank you to Jersey for hosting two very well organised events over the past few days.

Inter-Insular Wins for McLaughlin and Bowditch

James McLaughlin has done it again.  The 17 year old produced a fantastic ride in Jersey on a slow and complicated 25mTT course to win both the overall and junior categories in a time of 55:58, only 17 seconds slower than the course record set by Jersey's very own Commonwealth Games rider, Sam Firby.   McLaughlin finished 2 minutes ahead of his nearest rival.  Meanwhile, I won the women's event in a time of 63:29 with Jersey's Helen Goulding taking second place in the women's event with a time of 66:59.

We can boast having the men's and women's Inter-Insular Champions for both the road race and time trial for 2008.

Guernsey's Half Marathon

Richard Stapley had a great run to finish with a time of 1:24:30 in 7th place in the annual Half Marathon held from Pleinmont to Bulwer Avenue.  This is a great indication that Richard is maintaining his running form well despite the extra cycling and reduced running training.

Jean Francois Rault Sportif

Dave Mayman produced a great performance in the Jean Francois Rault Sportif to finish in 30th place overall and 14th in his age category.  Dave has shown ability across the board from hill climbs, road races, time trials and to the longer randonee and sportif events.

McLaughlin Rides to Victory in the Inter-Insular Road Race - Two Records Go

James McLaughlin has done it again.  This time in the 7 lap course held over Guernsey's L'Eree circuit in the Inter-Insular.  Jersey fielded 4 riders but Guernsey quickly took control of the race with McLaughlin ensuring that a tough pace was maintained up the climb.  With 4 Guernsey riders away, a Guernsey win was definitely on the cards but forever the team player and gentleman, McLaughlin decided not to attack his team-mates too early to ensure that they all stayed ahead to the finish, he attacked on the flat approximately 1.5 miles from the finish and pulled a gap which he held to the end and taking the under 18 record. 

In the Veterans/Juniors/Women's race, I was the only female but had a great time mixing it with the guys and coming 4th overall and taking 6 mins off the women's record.  Dave Mayman looked strong early on during the race but paid the price for his efforts to catch Paul Brehaut and just missed the final break.  Even so, Mayman finished a great 3rd in the Veteran category.

Two Champions in One Evening

AB Coaching can boast male and female 10 mile TT Champions.  James McLaughlin won both the Junior and Senior events with yet another 21 minute ride, despite suffering badly with hay fever.   I won the women's event in a time of 24:40 on a windy evening. Jamie Burtenshaw rode well on a road bike with no tri-bars (time to follow). 

Jersey Round the Island TT

Dave Mayman continues to show fantastic form in winning the highly competitive veteran category of today's 'Round the Island Time Trial' in Jersey.  This will give Dave plenty of confidence going into next week's road race inter-insular to be held in Guernsey next weekend.

Norgiots MTB XC

Jamie Burtenshaw is showing improvements in all disciplines and today he showed that his MTB riding is up to scratch with a race win across both the Advanced and Elite categories.

Guernsey 10mTT

We are beginning to expect 21 min time trials from James McLaughlin and sure enough he didn't disappoint us with another fantastic ride, winning the 10mTT in 21:19.  Conditions were not the best indicated by the fact that no other riders produced impressive times.  Meanwhile, I won the women's category in 24:34.

Medio Fondo

Our endurance man, Lawrie Chandler, has been out that doing his stuff.  The Medio Fondo is an awesome 146km with 2,760 metres of climbing with a maximum gradient of 25%.  The event was held in the Snowdonia region of North Wales.   Lawrie completed this epic event in a time of 7:06:21 and gained the bronze award for his efforts.

To find out more about the event click here.

National 10mTT - McLaughlin on the Podium

James McLaughlin has proven his calibre once again by placing an incredible 2nd in the National 10mTT in a time of 20:03.  Locals consider the course a "power man's circuit" which just goes to show what a great ride James produced given his slight build.  Congratulations should also go to Dan Arblaster who won the event in 19:53 and to Callum Hill-Smith who produced a superb time of 22:19 having only just turned 16.

Meanwhile, feeling like an old women next to these super fast youngsters, I was delighted with my result, completing the course in 22:25 and helping my team scienceinsport.com collect the women's team medal. 

Mayman Outstanding in Jersey

Dave Mayman has once again produced some outstanding rides in Jersey placing 2nd equal (overall) in the St Catherine's hill climb and comfortably first veteran.  To top that he was 3rd overall and 1st veteran the following day in the 10mTT.  Two fantastic results.

5mTT Record for Bowditch

Well, I feel I can put the horrible period of tonsillitis behind me now, having produced a new record in the 5mTT of 11:46.  My previous record being 11:49.  I am delighted with that result.  Meanwhile, I'd like to mention a fantastic ride by Jamie Burtenshaw in the same event to record a time of 12:37 on  a road bike with no tri bars.  Jamie also produced a fine result to finish in 8th place at the weekend in the Team Road Race.  The little people are doing good.

Mayman on Top of Podium

Dave Mayman came back from a break in France, which incorporated the Jacques Bossis sportive, to win the Veteran's category of the St Ouen's sporting 10mTT.  As impressive was the fact that Dave was 3rd overall only 23 seconds behind winner, Chris Spence, who has been on fine form of late.

Osborn, Mann and Burtenshaw Podium in MTB XC at Pleinmont

Jon Osborn produced arguably his best MTB XC result by taking second place in the Elite category cross country event at Pleinmont.  Nick Mann took another convincing victory in the Veteran class of the MTB XC race at Pleinmont, lapping all riders in his category and beating most of the senior field too.  Meanwhile, Jamie Burtenshaw produced a great ride to finish 2nd in the Advanced category race and, in doing so, caught and overtook riders in the elite field who had a 30 second headstart.

Click here for more results

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