Racing is fun, but it’s even more fun when you get to do it wearing your country’s colours on your back. And that’s exactly what 3 of our supersonic Forge members did this year, heading to World Championships of the Gravel and Gran Fondo varieties.
James L and Laura Mc were the first to fly the flags at the recent Gravel World Championships, both proudly donning the coveted GBR jersey.
For James, this year was about unfinished business. “After the disappointment of puncturing after only 3km in last year’s World Champs,” he told us, “I finally got the opportunity to ‘enjoy’ the full racing experience at this level.”
And what was that experience like? “A different level! It was four hours of full-gas, intense racing which, for the first 50km, felt like a criterium,” James shared.
Was the pace any more forgiving in the women’s race? Seemingly not! Laura confirmed, “The race was fast, so fast I got a PR over 100k!”. Blimey!
Gravel courses are inherently challenging, so what were the conditions like on this championship circuit? Laura Mc offered a detailed assessment of the route:
“It was 2.5 laps of a mixed circuit, not too technical but with plenty of sharp gravelly corners, it passed some areas we covered as part of Amstel gold earlier this year. There was also more hill climbing than advertised!”
Despite the unexpected vertical challenge and the need to navigate the sharp, gravelly corners, the touch of familiarity surely provided a momentary psychological advantage as they tackled the demands of the world stage.
So there were brutal speeds and surprise climbs, but both athletes had a phenomenal time representing Great Britain. The atmosphere was electric, with both riders noting the incredible support.
“The number of supporters shouting ‘Go GB’ just reinforced the sense of occasion,” James writes, while Laura echoed this, describing a “great atmosphere with lots of supporters lining the route.”
Finally, James has some words for his club mates. “Big thanks to all of the F5 riders who have pushed me to my limit this year and the support of the club. I couldn’t have done it without you guys.”
Awww, thanks!
Then a few weeks later Paddy O went down under for the Gran Fondo World Championships, taking himself, his bike, and his green Ireland jersey all the way to Australia.
This trip was about much more than just the race. Having battled back from a serious injury two years ago and being hampered by punctures in previous qualifying attempts, reaching the World Championships was monumental.
Paddy confirms the significance of the event: “It was always all about qualifying and riding the World Gran Fondo Championships. Representing Ireland and riding in the national jersey was ace.”
Looking at the pre-race profile, the opening climb was designed to be decisive. Paddy knew the terrain presented a challenge to his strengths: “I knew the course would not suit me with a beautiful yet steady 10km climb straight from the gun,”
Despite the difficult start, his group managed to organize effectively after the initial selection: “Cresting the 30-minute climb through the beautiful Otway forest, we organised a 25-strong group, trying to chase down the leaders.”
Although winds and more hills made chasing down the leaders a vanishing task, the spirit of the event shone through. The positive atmosphere made the entire experience worthwhile: “Lots of positive vibes from everyone,” he says. “So many were delighted to talk to you. It felt really special.”
Paddy even played a supporting role for a familiar face: ex-Forge member Megan C, now an Australian triathlon star. Demonstrating true sportsmanship, he offered his lead-out services: “I tried to help out in the sprint, which she nailed for third place in the women’s 18-35 group.”
Ending on a pensive note, Paddy commented “I also couldn’t help reflect on the last two years, coming back from my serious back injury, wondering if I’d ever be able to ride again, never mind compete, never mind wear my national jersey with pride. A lifetime ambition unlocked.”
Seeing James, Laura, and Paddy take on the highest level of amateur cycling competition, overcoming obstacles, and proudly wearing their national colours has been truly inspiring. These incredible performances on the global stage are a powerful reminder of what hard work and commitment can achieve. They didn’t just compete, they represented us all with distinction.
A massive congratulations to all three of these amazing members!
Go Forge!
And if you want to see what a qualifying Gravel race looks like, here’s a video from the qualifier that Laura and James took part in in Wales. Bonus points if you can spot them!
