Best wishes for a speedy recovery to all who have met with misfortune recently. (not on the chain gang I might add)
What is the Chain Gang?
The Chain Gang is a gathering of riders who take part in a training ride that has many benefits for the rider:
Riding in a group
Staying close to a wheel
Communication
Developing skills of moving through and across a pack of riders
Managing a change of pace
Possibly working harder than you would by yourself.
Plus other benefits.
There are some similarities between the Chain Gang and a Club Run and both would be a useful step towards developing the skills and experience needed for Road Racing. The chain gang makes use of a circuit/course and can be at a higher intensity than a Club Run that follows a route and often includes a cafe stop.
The four Club Races at Bruntingthorpe over the next month are another excellent opportunity to try out bunch racing. Traffic free, wide tarmac and handicapped to give all a chance of winning. These Club Races are available to first claim members only.
Why participate?
If you like working hard on the bike and you enjoy riding in a group, then that is reason enough to take part. If you have an interest in Road Racing and intend racing at some point, then the chain gang could help you reach your goal.
If, after the Bruntingthorpe Club Races, you think you might want to develop this cycling discipline further and perhaps take part in road races against riders from other clubs, then come along to the Chain Gang rides and see if it's for you.
When and where does it take place?
We meet at Church Langton School 6.30pm - 6.45pm to start riding at 6.45pm and follow the following course:
From Church Langton school - Proceed to Thorpe Langton, then Welham and then to turn right to Weston by Welland and do Three circuits on the chain gang course (Weston by Welland, left to Medbourne, left to Slawston, left to Cranoe, Left to Welham and around again). When passing through Cranoe for the third time, instead of going left to Welham at Cranoe, carry straight on and turn left up to Church Langton and the school car park to complete the course.
We have met every Thursday evening throughout the season and will continue to do so until mid September when we may change to a weekend slot. We have had numbers ranging from 11 to 38 and can accommodate cyclist at a variety of fitness levels. If you can cope with the Bruntingthorpe novice race then you will be able to cope on the chain gang.
Who is it available to?
Chaingang Training sessions are open to all club members and that welcome is warmly extended to members of other clubs in the surrounding area.
What do I need?
For your Safety
It would be prudent to ride with a rear light and although daylight hours have increased, a front light is advisable if you intend riding home. A helmet is also advisable when riding in a group. I would also like to mention that Tri-bars should not be fitted and definitely not used.
Ray