The French Experience - Part Une

I am beginning to settle into life in France. I am based in a small town called Pons. Pons is a picturesque medieval town which is best known for its proximity to Congac. In my short time here I have found the locals to be extremely welcoming. The town embodies values common in rural communities around Ireland. The community are fanatical about cycling, it’s their GAA. All local businesses are represented on the team (Apoge Super U) jersey and there exists a passion for the sport evident from the number of volunteers working within the club.

Although I only arrived a week ago, I am settling into a routine which is slowly being instilled by management. We rise early, disappearing into the French country side. My daily ride differs from what I have become accustomed too – cars horns have been replaced by cries of ‘allez’ and suburbia has been exchanged for an expanding vista. Those not familiar with racing abroad wonder about the language barrier but on the bike no such barrier exits. The universal language of cycling transcends such barriers. We have been learning the language since we began cycling and it is etched indelibly into our psyche. Visual prompts replace words and we have honed the ability to interpret the posture of team mates, to analyse the way their bodies move and adjust our responses accordingly.

I have logged over eight thousand kilometres in my base period which began in late September. The winter break left an initial lethargy which took a couple of weeks to dissipate. The recipe this winter was simple - high volume and relatively low intensity. Now, only two weeks away from my season opener, Essor Basque, the focus of my sessions has changed. Since arriving in France I have begun to add some intensity into my sessions. My body is shocked as the steady four hour ride it has become accustomed to is interspersed with periods of up to twenty minutes riding at threshold. Training is beginning to replicate the demands of racing with increasing specificity as the season draws closer.

I am not sure what my French experience will hold but I know when I roll up to the start line that I have prepared well. I have continually been disciplined, abstained and foregone – all in the name of cycling performance. I know this journey will have many highs and lows but first impressions are all positive. Let the racing begin!