I have a question. Why would those guys agree to let you win. I mean they can sit on your wheel anyway if they want to right. Or they can do a little bit of work and still put themselves in the position to win?
Or was it that they were hammered and figured it was take the wheel for a place or get dropped and maybe overtaken by the next riders?
The other question i have is - Do you think your training program has made you stronger than the other years you've won?
To the first question, I'd say they were concerned that Nishitani san was coming from behind. He is one of the best riders in Japan.
A few years ago they worked me over, attack after attack, the end result was we all finished way down the standings.
Last year I managed to drop them on the last big climb and put 30 minutes into them in the last 80 kms. So, yes I think they thought they could get the best possible result by sitting on.
As for the training program helping me.
Present condition: I feel stronger than in recent years. Training Peaks data indicates I am stronger now than my peak in mid July last year.
Specific training: The specific training I did meant that I felt strong to the end of the race. And I rode the race in the way I had planned (in the way the training was focused).
Resting: I used to rest for 2 days before. This year I did 2 weeks of pretty much rest. Focusing on resting, sleeping and fueling.
Self confidence: In an event like this confidence and mental focus is very important. Despite having a cold I was confident that I could carry out the job in the way I had planned.
Generally speaking I would say a training program has helped me to be in top condition each time I line up at a race. No hit and miss. No guess work.
If you are looking to target a race or event I would definitely recommend giving
@Doug3 a shout. It's been nothing but an eye opening experience for me.
Andy
www.jyonnobitime.com/time
