I’m now well into my first race season and it’s had its’ ups and downs! I’ve had a couple of painful crashes and the fresh road rash scars on my legs are a constant reminder of what can happen when things go wrong. Despite the setbacks I’ve managed to keep up my training and racing, finally my consistency and perseverance seem to be paying off. I’m getting the hang of racing tactics, my power and endurance are up and as a result I’m seeing a steady improvement in results including my first win at the Salt Ayre Criterium last weekend. I’m proud to be racing for the UK’s first British Cycling affiliated all vegan club, I love that Leo the pig who once lived in my garden is emblazened on my Jersey along with the words, ‘Vegan Rider’ and ‘Plant Powered’. I don’t think anything could motivate me to achieve my best any more than this!
I’ve had plenty of interest in veganism from other non vegan riders and racers who given the volume of misinformation out there are understandably concerned that a vegan diet could adversely affect their athletic performance. It’s great to be a living breathing example that protein ‘aint a problem and when you win a race, it’s hard for anyone to argue with that.
The rest of July is a busy one for me before things peter out in August. I’ve prioritised town centre criterium races as these draw in the crowds and I want to get the vegan message across to the masses too. Let’s just hope I can stay upright and get my tactics right on the day! Whatever happens I’ll write another post in a few weeks to sum up the action 🙂
Well done Jon – really happy to see you leading by example and getting great results! I haven’t actually done a crit myself but I know from others’ experience that at the start you’re really thrown in the deep end and it’s a tough discipline. So kudos for getting in there and best of luck for your coming races!
Cheers Michael, it’s not been easy but I’ve stuck at it, not going to lie, I felt like giving up at certain points this season. Just got a few more races to go, if I continue to do well then I’ll be moving up to the 2nd category before the season is over, then the challenge for next year will be to retain my 2nd cat licence!!
Second cat is a great achievement, Jon – keep up the good work!
Well of course you are our son so we would be proud whatever, but we are especially proud that you are embodying your values to demonstrate what you believe in. The falling off and scraping of your legs and body we could do without, as we have seen it throughout your life, but you are an inspiration so keep at it: lead by example. And Leo’s soul will be watching with some disbelief and joy we’re sure. Much Love Mum and Dad