Claire Windsor: My First Belgium Race Block

by Cynisca Claire Windsor – – 20 March 2023: My first spring block in Belgium has been an incredible journey and included pivotal moments of racing and personal growth.

While I had a rough first race at @omloophageland navigating such an elite peloton, I quickly changed my perspective and goals for @lesamyn and found myself positioning the best I ever have. Just as I achieved this small goal, I found myself getting distanced on the horrendous cobbled sections, mostly out of inexperience and fear. At least my SHIMANO ROAD system always made shifting easy even on the most gruesome roads in Belgium. Overall, those two days were both a reality check on how much more I have to go to be a part of these races but also boosts of confidence that I can keep improving and achieve small goals every day.

In order to best practice these race skills outside of training, I took advantage of the opportunity to race in local kermesses and participate in a @proximuscyclingchallenge sportif. Both the Escanaffles and Ooike kermesses included a huge and competitive field of riders. These were amazing opportunities to practice being at the front, moving through the peloton, and following aggressive race tactics. Additionally, I put my cobble-riding skills to the test with the Nokere Koerse sportif, which makes me excited to actually race this tough course in the future.

Whether based with the team in Kluisbergen or on my own in Geraardsbergen, I made the most of my month in Belgium during one of the most exciting parts of the season. Thank you to all staff and supporters of @cyniscacycling that have made my journey possible and successful thus far. Also, thank you to Fred and Rosa for always being the best support for me when I am at races by myself and for always treating me so well, especially with our spectacular day in Ghent. I am excited to return soon enough in April and then for another block of racing in June/July.

But now I’m off to Granada, Spain with Emilie Fortin for a block of training at altitude and with more climbing in the Sierra Nevada mountains! 🔜🧳🇪🇸