13 Feb
VeloChampion ambassador shares his Tour de Manc riding tips
Marcus Dey is a GB age group triathlete studying Sports Science at Loughborough University, a brand ambassador for VeloChampion.cc and the first finisher in Tour De Manc’s 100 km route in 2019.
About Marcus:
I wanted to take part in my local sportive. Being from Rochdale, I know the route well and it’s great bike training for tri’s. I am coming into my 8th year of competing and this season my aim is to podium at the European Junior Triathlon Championships and place in the top 5 at the World Junior Triathlon Championships. I usually race sprint triathlons, recently winning the BUCS Sprint Triathlon, but tackling longer routes builds stamina
About the Tour De Manc:
I was the first finisher on the 100km routeIt is an undulating route, so be sure that your bike is serviced and cleaned before the event. Not only will it make your ride more enjoyable, but you’re at less risk of a mechanical halfway round the course.
Make sure you carry repair essentials, such as tyre levers, a spare inner tube, multi tool and don’t forget the trusty pump! If you are after these essentials, check out VeloChampion.cc Also bear in mind that you will need to have a suitable helmet and a pump, without these you will NOT be able to start.
The 2019 ride was a typically British, overcast day so I had a small rain jacket in my jersey to keep myself dry should I have needed it. I suggest you look at the weather the day before and plan what kit you will need because you will be spending a few hours in the saddle and comfort and warmth is essential. You might want to bring sunglasses. Even if it’s not sunny, it’s good to protect your eyes using a clear or yellow lens. A spare inner tube is a must, should you puncture and a phone in case of an emergency.
When building up your fitness during training rides, start estimating how long it will take you on the day to figure out the fuel intake you will need. You can burn in excess of 100 grams of carbohydrate per hour when cycling so you will need to replace these stores when riding. There are plenty of refreshment stops which provide food and drinks to keep you going throughout the route, so make sure you are fuelling enough and always keep something in your back pocket to keep you going.
If you have never done the Tour De Manc before, it is a great inclusive event to meet people and I would advise to find someone or a group similar to your ability to ride with, as I’m sure they will appreciate the extra company.
I suggest that you set off at a reserved pace for at least the first hour as you don’t want to tire yourself out too early, you may also want to measure your effort when going uphill. It’s better to keep a steady pace for the whole ride instead of slowing down at the end because you went too fast at the start, this will make it faster and more enjoyable.
Last of all good luck and enjoy the day!
@marcusdey_ / @marcus.dey
@velochampionuk