collinullrich

Hello all!

My name is Collin, and I am 19 years old and live near Sacramento, California. Just making the switch over from collegiate distance running to cycling, and I need all the training advice, racing advice, equipment advice, etc. that I can get. I'm interested in hearing what some of the vets think regarding my potential. In highschool I ran a 9:02 2 mile and a 14:28 3 mile in cross country. My vo2 max is right around 72 and my resting heart rate is 27 bpm (I have medical documentation if you don't believe me). I stand 6'2" and weigh 170 pounds. What are your thoughts on whether I have cat 1 potential or not?

bpcyclist

Welcome, Collin. I used to run marathons and ran a few ultras, but I certainly was not fast. I could just go for a long time, that was my strength--if I had one.

You, on the other hand, have what the running coaches refer to as "talent." Head over to the Road Cycling forum and ask some of those speedsters what you wish to ask. They will help you out. Good luck!!

xiaoman1 

Oh to be young again and talented too!
Welcome, Ben

TMonk

Hello Collin,

Welcome to bikeforums and to racing. I think you may have the potential to get to cat 1. How long have you been cycling? If the answer is under a couple years, for now the best thing you can do is to just ride more and with groups when possible. Make sure to have good biomechanics (bike fit) and not pile on too much too soon to avoid overuse injury or mental burnout. In Sacramento you have some good opportunity to build speed skills - check out the "river ride" for a fast, fun time.

Once you get some pack skills and more experience, come into the Road Bike Racing subforum and ask a few questions. Make sure to check out the "New to Racing" sticky thread at the top - it will likely be very informative for you.

Cheers!

-TMonk