The final regional WCRA training weekend proved to be another great success despite the poor weather on the Saturday, again. Nearly 30 women met at the hotel near Alton in Hampshire under the guidance of Andy Verrall, Bryan Taylor and myself (Steve Ellis). The short opening session was on bikes skills - in pairs, leaning on each other, then touching the wheel of the rider in front and finally picking up a bottle from a crate. This was followed by a mass ride of about 15 miles to a caf�, assisted by Guy Watson with Leslie Everest kindly following in her car, just in case.

Despite the weather and the mixed ability of the group, the ride stuck together and arrived safely and intact at the caf� stop. Once refreshed the riders were split into 3 ability groups for the longer return journey, concentrating on close formation disciplined riding. After showering and changing the riders were again split into 2 groups for the practical demonstrations. Andy talked about bike maintenance and basic repairs, whilst I demonstrated massage and talked about how to look after yourself and training techniques. Bryan popped between groups adding his expert advice when appropriate. Then it was food, relaxation and well-deserved sleep.

Sunday dawned clear and again, the riders were split into two groups. The A group, led by Bryan and Andy, concentrated on riding techniques and using a support car. About 45 miles were covered before a quick caf� stop and then a short but fast ride back to base, with Hannah Reynolds winning the motor-paced sprint at the end (32mph up a long drag!) The B group, led by Guy and supported by Leslie, took a slightly shorter ride out � concentrating again on close riding techniques.

Next stop for the training camps is the �finale�, the pre-season weekend at Welwyn Garden City (24th/25th Jan.�04), where we have pre-booked places for 40 riders at the hotel and already have over 30 riders pencilled in for the course. If interested please contact me: ellis.steve@talk21.com or 01376 551744.

Steve

Many thanks to all the riders who have attended over the 3 weekends and thanks too to all those who have helped make these weekends successful.

Steve Ellis gives talk/demo on massage

Riders preparing for the ride

Skills session - 'contact situations'

The 'A' group getting the miles in