I moved up to the small town of Barbourville, Kentucky in mid-January, the mountainous landscape of Southeastern Kentucky is every cyclist's dream for training, and with relatively mild winter weather, I can still train year-round.
There are 10 minute climbs all around town and 20-30 minute climbs within riding distance from my house; perfect for big volume days and base miles. One of my favorite routes is about 70 miles with 7,500ft of climbing with three 20-minute climbs in some of the more isolated parts of Kentucky and Tennessee. Needless to say, my riding progressed pretty significantly in my short time here, thanks to T.G. Taylor's coaching and my new environment.
The first test of the year would be the Snake Creek Gap TT in February. My training strategy was to find as much climbing as I could, and with several 250ft vertical feet per mile rides under my belt; the climbing at Snake did not feel as overwhelming as it did last year. My finishing time was 5:20 with two flats and a mechanical, putting me in 6th place, with a time that would have won last year's race.
After Snake, it was back to more base mileage and 15-20+ hour weeks on the bike; which at this point was something I had become accustomed to. Given that my first big goal this year is a strong result at the Austin Rattler Leadville Qualifier, I am going to need some big volume and with T.G.'s guidance I am confident in riding riding the volume without getting sick or burning out.
This year, I am beyond excited to have the support of some of the finest companies in mountain bike racing. Starting with continued support from Deep South Bicycle Company, Lauf Forks, Trucker Co.com/Trucker Co. Posse Pro Mountain Bike Team, and TORQ USA. And welcoming support from ESI Grips, Lake Cycling, NOX Composites, and Maxxis Tires. The support from these companies will give me the best chance to accomplish my goals this season, so thank you very much.
