Support road.cc

Like this site? Help us to make it better.

forum
road.cc bike forum

My first century

by Amos
Thu, May 09, 2013 08:10
9

This weekend I'm taking part in my first century, I've done a plenty of metric centuries in the past and did the Isle of Wight Randonee. I'm not worried about my fitness that's pretty good, I'm just nervous about the distance! It is called the Hampshire Hilly Hundred which is doing nothing to quell my fears. I will be concentrating on pacing myself but I do have a tendancy to chase people down...

Any other tips welcome!

If you're new please join in and if you have questions pop them below and the forum regulars will answer as best we can.

Add new comment

9 comments

Avatar
Amos | 11 years ago
0 likes

Completed my first century yesterday! It was extremely hilly but never the less completed in 6:38. Would of liked to have been under the 6 hour mark but my ride buddy was really suffering badley with cramp quite early on, he did recover well though. Been on a reco very ride today and feeling pretty good. Now need to find another more local century!

Avatar
RobeH | 11 years ago
0 likes

im doing the Wiltshire 100 in September 16

Avatar
Amos | 11 years ago
0 likes

Thanks for all the encouragement! Gatorskins now fitted as the weather is looking ropey now. Will report back to let you know how it went

Avatar
joc | 11 years ago
0 likes

all of the above..i done my first century last weekend and whilst i wont say it was easy it wasn't as difficult as i thought....good luck

Avatar
Alan Tullett | 11 years ago
0 likes

Good advice above. I grew up in Hampshire so it's fairly hilly but they're not that long. Winchester Hill is quite tough though and I think you do it after about 90k just before you get to the A32. From the direction you're doing it it has quite a fast and twisty descent before you reach the main road as well. Looking at the overall route it's going to be up and down most of the way so if you're a bit worried do pace yourself at the beginning and DON'T go chasing people or doing interval training! Eat lots of carbs the night before so your muscles are full of glycogen in the morning and remember to eat regularly as you go, although, in my experience, it's not a good idea to overdo the eating as well and I tend to stick to water rather than sports drinks as I find too much sugar isn't a great idea.

Living in Cambridge I don't get to go up many hills normally so I envy you the chance to see some great views and if you don't know the area it is beautiful! Quiet roads and classic Southern English rolling countryside. (As a Hampshire boy the best there is!) Get some good weather and it'll be a fantastic day! If I can fit it into my schedule somehow I might do it next year, I think.

In any case let us all know how it goes and I'm sure you'll be fine.

Avatar
cidermart | 11 years ago
0 likes

I think they have covered most of it above other than enjoy it you'll feel good about it in the end.

Avatar
billyman | 11 years ago
0 likes

and remember for every uphill there is a downhill lol, good luck 4

Avatar
VecchioJo | 11 years ago
0 likes

seconded

and don't get over-excited at the start and tire yourself out unnecessarily, and rather than chase people down use them to your advantage by drafting them (don't forget to take your turn at the front though) or chatting to them (if they want to be chatted to that is), both will make the miles go past quicker and easier

Avatar
FMOAB | 11 years ago
0 likes

Sounds like you are easily capable, just make sure you take on enough energy and fluids to see you through the last few miles. Flapjacks, Soreen, gels, energy bars, whatever works for you.

Latest Comments