BC holds big race simulation weekend

‘World Cup’ helps riders prepare for Tokyo

BC track meet had Covid protocols

With all track competition on hold due to the coronavirus pandemic, British Cycling used last weekend to hold a series of race simulations, involving 90 riders over the course of three days.

The decision, however, did cause the governing body to come in for criticism on social media for gathering such a large number of people together while the public is still largely unable to meet others outside their own households.

Group training for elite sport is currently allowed under stage two of the government’s guidance, provided sports-pecific Covid-19 protocols are in place and adhered to.

The weekend’s event gathered 90 riders plus some coaches and staff, many of whom were part of the governing body’s Olympic programs, but also included those who came from further afield. The latter group had to undergo Covid testing and stayed in a nearby hotel.

The event replicated a World Cup event to enable the teams to figure out the timings to work to and fine-tune their nutrition and recovery protocols ahead of the Tokyo Games.