John, Stan & Bomber with National Vets Short Distance Team Trophy for 2008

Background
John has been becoming the man to beat on the Triangle and Tadcaster League, knocking out faster times each year and taken the overall top spot for both events in 2008.  John has had a good start to the season (2009) so far coming in 14th on the vicious Circuit of the Dales with a pb,  and riding a 20:10 for  a 10 mile TT on the v 718, to take 4th in the over 40 category.

John started racing in 2003, his first race being on the legendary Poole Triangle.  Like many, John was sold the equipment from Woodrup’s and then given directions to the circuit.   John had only just taken up cycling having spent too much time working in construction and pursuing no sport since childhood.  He produced a 38.17 on a cheap, standard road bike, describing it as ‘a bit twitchy.’ John clearly picked up the buzz straight away and has continued to race ever since!

What are your personal best times for?
10 miles 20.05
25 miles 53.02
50 miles 1.50.20
100 Miles 3.54.35
Poole Triangle 28.20

What 4 words best describe you?
Driven, determined, honest, fair

I hear you’ve been working closely with Ruth Eyles (coach), how is it working?
Ruth’s really good, she gets me doing new things, I’ve worked with her since 2007.

What is your favourite training ride?
A 100 mile flat ride.  I like it because the legs are constantly moving, you can keep the heart rate stable and it puts some good speed in the legs for time trials.  I like training on the flat but do a few rides in the hills.

On a rest day, do you spin the legs or not touch the bike?
I’ll do an hour easy

What are your targets this year?
John smiles ‘I don’t have any.’  When I push this a bit more it becomes clear John does have clear targets that only Ruth and he know about.  He explained that he was very competitive, both against others and himself.  Finishing, John said a sub 20 minute 10 would be good!

Who’s going to win the tour this year?
Evans won’t, I’m thinking either Contador or Leiphemer with Armstrong making the podium.

Do you have any special routines prior to a race?
No not really, the only one I guess it to check the wheel magnet is just before the wheel sensor so I can record a more exact time.

What’s your best race so far?
I prefer technical courses over the standard dual carriageways.  The Circuit of the Dales is a good technical course, but I really enjoyed the time trial down at Blenheim Palace last year.

Who is your favourite rider?
Lance Armstrong, I’ve read his book and admire his determination, he has an amazing ability to grind through.

I hear you’ve seen the light and opting to have a go on 3 wheels, how come?
Carl suggested it, I’m getting my hands on one soon.  I’m unsure how it will feel but hopefully it should be good and I’ll be able to ride a few races on it.

I’ve often seen John driving a JCB when out training and looked up with jealousy, so how is it to drive a JCB?
I really like it, yeah there’s a feeling of power moving such a big machine about.  I once knocked down a house with one!  Then at other times I’ve had to work with them in confined spaces and liked the focus and skill it takes to move such a big machine, in a confined space.  John is still to offer me a go on one.