5 Issues You Want To Know Earlier than Driving The Coronation Double Century

I’ve by no means thought-about myself a roadie, the truth is I’ve by no means actually been on a highway bike in my life earlier than. However all of that is about to vary. Why? As a result of this Saturday I’m using 202km via Swellendam, Montagu, Barrydale and Bonnievale — a route that belongs to none aside from the Coronation Double Century. There can be loads of time to get used to highway racing on the day however listed below are my prime suggestions to make sure I make it to the end line (hopefully in a single semi-stoked piece)…

Coronation Double Century Tip No 1: Don’t Skimp On The Pants

In all probability some of the necessary classes that I learnt the exhausting method: good pants make the trip. It’s vital to be sure to put money into high quality, comfy pair of biking bibs. These may very well be the distinction between finishing the 202km or pulling out midway. A cheerful ass makes for a contented cycle, so spoil yours with an honest pair. 

READ MORE: “5 Issues I’ve Learnt Since I Began Biking — Like How To Go Pantyless”

Coronation Double Century No 2: Love Thy Bum

Whereas we’re speaking bums, one other lifesaver is chamois cream. Make sure that to use this generously to all these delicate areas. Belief me, you’ll know in case you’ve forgotten this step. We’re speaking saddle sores and chafing. Ouch! 

Coronation Double Century Tip No 3: Hydration Station

Ensure you drink sufficient (water that’s) within the week earlier than race day. You don’t wish to be beginning the 202km dehydrated. Throughout the race is simply as necessary. You’re going to be sweating heaps en route and also you’ll want to interchange these fluids. As a result of sweat isn’t simply water, you’ll additionally have to prime up these electrolyte and salt ranges alongside the way in which. I take two bottles with me, one with water and the opposite with a little bit Tailwind endurance gas. There are water factors alongside the way in which, however don’t depend on these – depend on your self and your bottles. There is no such thing as a worse feeling than operating out of water.

READ MORE: Print This: The Race Day Guidelines That Covers EVERYTHING

Coronation Double Century Tip No 4: Gasoline Up

Together with hydration comes vitamin. You HAVE to be sure to’re consuming sufficient. When you wait till you are feeling hungry, it’s often too late. And when it’s too late you bonk. Preserve munching and ensure it’s vitamin that you just’re use to. Persist with what and preserve it easy. There are such a lot of fancy merchandise on the market however there’s nothing incorrect with outdated potato with salt.

Coronation Double Century Tip No 5: Sunscreen

I’m horrible in terms of sunscreen and, for that purpose, I virtually all the time have a biking shorts tan, most instances accompanied by glove, sleeve and sock strains. You’ll most likely purchase your individual assortment of tan strains this weekend, however sunscreen will prevent from some nasty burn. Your physique will already be drained and sore after the race, so added redness is unquestionably not a vibe.

See you on the Coronation Double Century begin line!