Olympic hopeful Charlie Tanfield says that he wants to use domestic racing opportunities to hone his endurance as he continues to switch his focus between track and road.
Tanfield is riding for Canyon DHB p/b Bloor Homes in this year’s HSBC UK | National Road Series, but admits that the majority of his attention is currently being taken up by preparations for a potential tilt at team pursuit gold with the Great Britain team at next year’s Olympic Games.
The 22-year-old is a former team pursuit world champion, and will be among those looking to continue Britain’s proud Olympic history in the event next year.
However, he says that road racing is of huge benefit, and will be taking every opportunity to race this season.
“There’s a small window here where I want to focus on the road quite a bit,” he explains. “It can really build that endurance threshold and test your legs fully. You can train all you want, but it’s different to racing – you can really test your legs when you’re four or five hours into a road race, and you don’t get that in training.
“It’s a good time to focus on the road as it’s a good indicator of how my training is going, but it’s also a lot of fun! I’d be lying if I said it was a purely road-focused season for me, but I love racing and these national series races are great.”
Tanfield’s Canyon DHB p/b Bloor Homes team have enjoyed a fantastic start to the series, winning both of the opening two rounds thanks to Rory Townsend and Tom Stewart.
Despite Tanfield’s dual focus, he is keen to repay the support his team has shown him, and to play his part in further victories this summer.
“Tim (Elverson) has been really great – he’s always putting me in for races which not only suit me but also work well with the programme. I’m in a lucky position really, to be in a team that recognises that and likes to help you on a personal level.
“I want my road racing to complement what I’m doing on the track, but I also want to do my role for the team. Our goal is to win every race we compete at, and we’ll all work with Tim and play our roles properly to try to get the result.”
The men’s HSBC UK | National Road Series now moves on to round three – the Lancaster Grand Prix, on June 9.
