Track RacingSteph ManganApril 24, 2023Kissena, WTFComment

Takeaways from my first track race

Track RacingSteph ManganApril 24, 2023Kissena, WTFComment

A few weeks ago I impulsively bought a track bike from Facebook Marketplace and I was both excited and nervous to give track racing a try. Originally my plan was to borrow a loaner bike, test the waters at a few Kissena clinics, and maybe buy a bike down the line. But Facebook Marketplace is a dangerous place and I got a sweet deal on a never-ridden Fuji Track bike. So with a new bike and some fun peer pressure from teammates, I was ready to jump into my first race at the Kissena Velodrome.

I arrived at the track early that day to join a pre-race clinic. The clinic was a good taster on skills, tactics, and learning how to race safely and successfully. We spent the morning getting more comfortable on the bike, focusing on drills, and simulating races. It was a beneficial experience as I was able to gain comfort on my bike while getting a feel for the track before my first real heat.

The women's field was sponsored by IAMICANIWILLIDO, and there was truly an amazing turnout, with so many other folks signed up for their very first race. The track was buzzing as cyclists warmed up, chatted with each other, and prepared their bikes for the race. Sitting in the infield, I had flashbacks to childhood soccer tournaments where folks would hang out in lawn chairs, eat snacks, and chit-chat.

After watching the first fields it was time for the W novice field. The first lap was a blur as I tried to just find my place in the pack. I could feel the wind rushing past me as the other racers jostled for position and I simply tried to get some speed. It was clear within the first few laps that I certainly did not have the correct gears. I was rocking a horrible 46/17 and was just spinning like crazy. As soon as the pace picked up on laps 6 and 7, I just couldn’t hang on. Although I finished last, I felt accomplished to have just survived. My first thought after getting off the bike was "That all happened so fast." I was used to road races that were drawn out, started slow, and I had time more time to think about my position.

Big thanks to Shane for letting me borrow a spare cog for my second race. Even a slight change to 46/15 made it feel a lot less spinny and I was able to keep with the pack with much more ease. In the end, I crossed the line with the pack - not a bad result for my second race. As I caught my breath and cooled down, I felt excited that I was able to improve on the previous race and get better with my bike handling, drafting, and sprinting.

I was determined to end my final race of the day on a high note. With no more gear issues or first-day nerves, I wanted to focus on being close to the front and getting good lines. I had gained so much knowledge and confidence in the first few races that I decided to try moving to the front and seeing if I could hold that spot. I pushed forward on the last three turns and finished 3rd - my best result of the day! I ended the day feeling I had improved every race and started to understand a bit of the race dynamics.

I had taken on a new challenge and finished strong. Ready to do it all over again.

My takeaways from my first day at Kissena:

Attend a pre-race clinic

Attending a pre-race clinic is an excellent way to get familiar with the track and gain valuable skills and knowledge about tactics.

Take advice from others

After my first race, I asked around for advice on gear and tactics. So many people offered tips, and tricks, and even let me borrow tools and gear. Learn from those who have more experience and listen to advice on how to improve.

Focus on skills

Each race I found something new to focus on and improve. Whether it be getting more comfortable riding on someone's wheel or improving my position on the track, I left every race feeling like I left with more skills than when I started.