Advanced bicycle racing tactics on display at I'On Cycle Race April 19
Mt.
Pleasant, SC-
A bicycle race is like a chess game – except that the players’ heart rates can
hit over 200 beats per minute and their elbows can touch at speeds sometimes in
excess of 40 mph, as racers will in I’On Biznet’s Anything But Cars races on
Saturday, April 19 in Mt. Pleasant, SC.
In contrast to how many foot races work, teamwork is essential at elite cycling events. Each person on a squad has a specific assignment. In some cases, a rider’s responsibility is to exhaust himself or herself long before the finish in order to push the pace and weed out weaker riders. Another rider’s chore may be to save energy throughout the race to try to win the final sprint. Still others are assigned to making sure the designated sprinter gets into position at the lead of the pack as the race nears the finish.
When several elite teams are involved, tactics can become very complicated.
So, as you watch the events, look for hushed little conversations between riders at the start line. Take note of smaller knots or riders from the same team inside the pack. Pay attention when a group of riders has “broken away” from the remainder of the pack and watch to see whether they work together smoothly, sharing the burden of breaking the wind at the front while taking turns “drafting,” the same as at a NASCAR race. And watch to see if any riders from the main pack at the rear can muster the energy and organization to “bridge the gap” and “reel in” the leaders.
Knowing just these few facts can deepen your understanding of what makes bicycle racing as popular as it is in Europe and elsewhere, why the elite professional riders’ salaries can rival those of NFL stars.
For more information on the races see www.ionbiznet.com. Saturday’s races go rain or shine.
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Text by Tom Bradford, Lowcountry VW Bicycle Racing Team,