Gari Sets New V50 Record at the National 24-Hour Championship
Endurance cycling is as much a test of determination and resilience as it is of physical fitness, and club member Gari Jones recently demonstrated all three in spectacular fashion as he improved on his previous performance at the National 24-Hour Championship, setting a new V50 Ystwyth CC 24-hour time trial record.
This year’s ride presented an extra challenge from the outset. Unlike previous attempts, Gari tackled the event unsupported, relying entirely on careful planning and self-sufficiency.
“I was unsupported this year, so I parked my car near Prees Heath roundabout which is used on each of the circuits… so I could stop and refill my bidons and grab extra energy bars, gels, bananas and jam sandwiches… and re-charge my front lights.”
The logistical challenge began long before the official start. After setting up his support point, Gari still had to ride 16 miles to Event HQ and the start line before the clock even started ticking.
Starting at 1:42pm on Saturday as rider number 42, he knew that the next 24 hours would demand both physical endurance and mental toughness.
As anyone who has taken part in ultra-distance cycling will know, the most difficult hours often come in the middle of the night. For Gari, the toughest period was the stretch between 10pm and 6am on the Prees Heath to Battlefield circuit.
“I was quite fatigued during the early hours again this year and needed caffeine gels to help keep me from falling asleep on the bike.”
The overnight circuit offered little respite, with a series of gradual climbs steadily chipping away at average speeds and energy reserves. Added to that were the inevitable aches and pains that come from spending an entire day and night in the saddle.
“It can get pretty uncomfortable on the bike at times with sore feet, aching legs, back and neck pain and of course saddle sores to contend with as well.”
Despite the discomfort, the spirit of the championship helped keep riders going.
“Seeing the sheer speed and power of the faster riders going past is inspiring. Riders give each other a little wave or cheer of encouragement as they go past which is great.”
Weather conditions were generally favourable, although Gari had to contend with stronger winds than in previous years. Given both the wind and the added challenge of being unsupported, his performance was all the more impressive.
“Conditions were warm but it was a little bit windier this year so in view of this and that I was unsupported this time, I was quite pleased to improve on last year’s total.”
The National 24-Hour Championship is renowned for its unique atmosphere, made possible by a huge team of volunteers, marshals and support crews working around the clock.
“This is a great event that needs a small army of dedicated marshals and volunteers… and along with the rider support crews they all create a fantastic atmosphere to give you a boost on the finishing circuit around Wrexham Industrial Estate!”
Congratulations to Gari on an outstanding ride and a fantastic achievement. To improve on last year’s distance while riding unsupported is remarkable enough; to do so at the National 24-Hour Championship while setting a new V50 record is a testament to the dedication, preparation and sheer determination that long-distance cycling demands. We are delighted to celebrate this achievement and look forward to seeing what challenge Gari takes on next.
