2020 Race Report #6: WBR Single Bong 20 KM Time Trial
My sixth race of 2020 was the third outdoor race postponed to a later date in the season due to the COVID-19 pandemic. As an alternative, I raced the course virtually through an online cycling workout website called ROUVY, similar to my last two races.
My time was 0:33:51 (21.3 mph) for 12.01 miles, one minute and 10 seconds slower than a year ago, May 5, 2019, when I finished this hilly course live in 0:32:41 (21.80 mph). As an extra incentive, I added three virtual racers to my effort. One of individuals finished faster than me; the other two had slower times. Consequently, my time was good enough for second place in the Top 10 results to date.
As I previously noted, there are two disadvantages to virtual time trial racing. First, there is no benefit for using aero gear, such as a TT bike, speedsuit, aero helmet, etc. Second, the power trainer reduces the resistance on a downhill section, but there is no coasting. You have to continue pedaling or you will stop. Nevertheless, I was pleased with this result only four weeks into my new training program.
Virtual race replay: WBR Single Bong 20 KM Time Trial
My next race is the WBR Harvard time trial (flat 20 kilometers) on Saturday, May 9. This race is currently on hold due to the COVID-19 pandemic. A virtual version of this race course will be created, which I will race next weekend.