Winter Racing – Droitwich Cycling Club

winter racing

Zwift and Cyclocross

Group rides continue through the winter but we have other methods to brush away the winter cobwebs.

Cyclocross

Droitwich Cycling Club members are often frequenting the muddy terrain of cyclocross. These events usually occur alternative Sundays from September until mid-winter. Cyclocross races follow short circuits across a terrain of dirt, sand and mud with obstacles such as hurdles, stairs of logs. Typically, a race lasts for forty to sixty minutes of multiple laps.

It is a challenging and demanding sport but is very rewarding. It requires endurance, bike handling skills and strength. Races often have a lively, social and festive atmosphere, giving the race a real buzz.

Riders often use cyclocross specific, gravel or mountain bikes at events. Given the terrain, don’t try it on your best summer road bike!

For details on cyclocross and how to enter, go to the WMCCL webpage. Updates on member activities can be found on our Facebook Group.

Zwift

Online race leagues are a great way of keeping fit over the winter, racing during the long winter evenings and avoiding the petrifyingly cold and dark conditions outside.

Don’t worry, you don’t have to be an elite rider to enter. Each group is handicapped according to ability, fitness and recorded achievements. We typically have A, B, C and D Teams who race against non-Droitwich teams of similar ability. Here are some of the benefits of joining a Zwift race league:

It’s a great way to challenge yourself and improve your cycling performance.
It’s a fun way to compete against other Zwifters from all over the world.
It can help you stay motivated to train consistently.
It’s a great way to meet new people and make friends.

There are fixed dates for the start of each Zwift Race League, typically early November, January and March. Captains and Team membership are coordinated via our Facebook Group. The captains often establish Whatsapp groups for each team to discuss tactics etc.