The Snowy Classic will be a weekend of cycling to remember and certainly be a destination Gran Fondo you’ll return to year after year. However, the course isn’t all coasting and enjoying the scenery. It will take training and determination to get to the finish line AND enjoy your afternoon at the Event Village.
Whether you’re riding the 110km Challenge Classic or 170km Maxi Classic this article, co-written by Snowy Classic team member and rider – Harry Kooros will help you get prepared for your chosen ride.
First things first.. the climbs!
As someone who hasn’t ridden the Snowy Classic looking at the course, what are your top training tips?
- Train for hills – Put plenty of climbs in your training rides running up to the Snowy Classic, as you’ll climb over 3,000 meters of elevation on the day, and you want to come prepared. The first major climb, Beloka, doesn’t come until about the middle of your ride, so you’ll already have over 85km in the legs. It’s a good idea to throw in some tough local climbs towards the end of your longer training rides, as this will help your body get ready for what’s to come.
- Train for distance – If you’re not yet throwing in a 100+km ride every week or two, you should start. While you may be able to pull off a 170km ride without training long distances, it’s a really good idea to get some longer rides in prior to the event. This will help your body get used to long hours in the saddle, and it will help you build up your endurance.
- Train within your limits – You shouldn’t just go out on each ride to go as fast as you can, you need to work on riding within limits that are sustainable for long distances. Find a tempo that you are comfortable sitting on for hours, and ride to it on some longer rides. Many people (myself included) go out too hard early in events, and then suffer greatly, sometimes even pulling out before finishing.
- Taper – You should be tapering in the week prior to the event, allowing your body to recover from the training you’ve been doing. I wouldn’t recommend any long or hard rides in the final week before the event.
What are you most looking forward to about the Snowy Classic as a rider?
There are three main things I’m looking forward to about the Snowy Classic
Scenery – The scenery in the Snowy Mountains is absolutely incredible. You’re going to want to bring your phone, as there are going to be some views that need to be photographed along the ride.
Route – The route, although challenging will be a lot of fun. There are some really enjoyable climbs, and I’m excited to be riding on fully closed roads.
Atmosphere – Riding with countless like-minded people is always exciting. Events like these always highlight the camaraderie between cyclists of all abilities. People love the sport, the challenge, and the sense of belonging cycling brings, and events like the Snowy Classic keeps the sport thriving.
STANDARD PRICING ENDS THIS SUNDAY, FEBRUARY 20. Register here!
