World Gravel Bike Championships – A Dutch Adventure

“On 10th October, I took part in the World Gravel Bike Championships in the Netherlands, 130km of undulating terrain (yes, Holland isn’t quite as flat as everyone thinks!). From the very start, the pace was shockingly fast, and I quickly realised I’d need to ride harder and faster than ever before. It honestly felt like I hadn’t trained at all!

After the initial chaos, I settled in as best I could, even taking a few turns leading smaller groups when I felt strong enough, though that may have been a little optimistic. Before long, the front runners from the age-group categories behind us came flying past, and I tried desperately to latch onto their wheels… but they soon disappeared into the distance.

With 30km to go, I hit the wall, a brutal reminder that I hadn’t refuelled properly. Cramp set in on the climbs, and it became a battle just to make it to the finish line in Maastricht. I crossed the line in 155th place out of 198 riders (though quite a few didn’t finish!).

Initially, I was disappointed, but then I reframed it: I was 155th best in the world in my age group! That felt a lot better. Despite the pain, I absolutely loved the event. The Dutch crowds were fantastic, as vocal and encouraging as their reputation suggests, and the experience has only fuelled my determination.

I’ll be aiming to qualify again at the UCI event in Scotland in May, quite probably just ‘for the fun of it’ seeing as next year’s World Championships are in Southwest Australia! Maybe Mr McBride will let me go… who knows, perhaps round two awaits!”

- Mr. Matthew Hall, Head of Geography