It was Glasgow Wheelers' Rab Wardell who tipped us off that his 20 year-old club mate Dougie Young is off to Oudenaarde on Tuesday for nine weeks - best have a word.

Glasgow Wheelers man, Dougie Young.

You're at University, Dougie?

"Glasgow Caledonian University studying fire risk engineering - I started off doing environmental management and planning but wasn't enjoying it and changed to this course."

You're off to Oudenaarde?

"Yes, Callum Gough has a flat there that he's letting us use, Finlay Young and James Smith are coming across too with Michael Nicholson joining us at the start of July."

Which races will you be riding?

"Callum showed us a Belgian website which has all the races on it, you enter on the line and it's possible to race three or four times per week - usually they are close enough to just pedal out to, but the train network is good if a race is a bit further away."

Have you raced abroad before?

"Yes, I was in Belgium for nine days last year, I took a bit of a beating but it's the place to be."

How did you wangle nine weeks off?

"I finished uni in mid-May; I have a part time job with Tesco but they've given me 'lifestyle leave' and my mum and dad are helping me financially."

Dougie rode a good race at last weekend's Davie Bell Memorial.

What are your goals for the trip?

"I want to learn to get round and try for a top 20 in an U23 race - I don't want to set myself unrealistic targets."

How did you get into the bike?

"I'm originally from Alloa and just got into going out for a run on my bike with my mates, I wanted to do longer runs but they weren't into that so I joined Stirling Bicycle Club in 2007.

"I joined the Wheelers when I moved to uni in Glasgow."

Rab told us you had a good Doon Hame.

"I got round stage one with the leaders and on stage two I was with the leaders again but punctured on a climb with 10 miles to go.

"On stage three I made a mistake, I thought I'd punctured, went back to the car to change wheel but with the cold and wet I couldn't get back on and ended up in the broom wagon.

"I want to do more Premiers - I rode the one at Dumfries and found it much tougher than Doon Hame; I got belted in the cross winds."

Dougie on the attack.

What's your best result?

"I've not had big results but I'm happy to be making the top ten in [Scottish series] Super Sixes.

"I was fourth in the Dundee two day, last year and it was good to get sixth in the Davie Bell on Sunday - that's probably my best result."

Favourite type of race?

"Anything! - but probably races like the Davie Bell with good long hills; one thing I'm definitely not is a sprinter!"

What about time trials?

"Nah! I find them boring."

Track?

"I've trained on the track and wouldn't mind riding if there was one closer to where I'm based."

Looking comfortable climbing the Nick o' Balloch.

Who do you admire?

"I like some of the British pros, Kristian House, the Downing brothers - I think it's more realistic to aspire to being at that level than it is to think about being on a Pro Tour squad."

Do you have a coach?

"Callum Gough gives me a training plan and I follow that."

And would you like to be a pro, one day?

"I don't think that it's achievable to be Pro Tour but if I could get into a good British team, yeah, that would be good."

He's off, but we'll be following his progress.

We'll check in with Dougie during his trip to see how it's going; one of my favourite bars is in Oudenaarde, the Carillon - I remember the time... ah, sorry! - nine weeks in Oudenaarde, don't you need someone to wash the bikes, Dougie?

We met Garmin Transisions mechanic Kris Withington recently on the Giro d'Italia, chewin' the fat at the start of Stage 12 in Città Sant'Angelo, and so we thought it would be great to find out the answer to that question, and discover a little more about this Giro, as well as life on the road with a top professional team.

The start of Stage 12 of the Giro, and Kris relaxes on the team car.

The strada biancha on Stage 7 of the Giro - what effect did that stage have on the equipment?

"Mate, we rode our standard bikes with a bit of extra grease on the chain.

"For the wheels, we used either the Mavic R-Sys or Mavic Cosmic - with 11-27 blocks wrapped in Vittoria 24mm Pave tubulars.

"No problems, no punctures, no nothing."

So the aftermath of that stage wasn't any different?

"Not really, it was the 'same old', more or less - except that there was about eight teams in the same car park as us, using the same water and electricity, so we had problems with water pressure for our Kärcher water blaster.

"Oh - and the hotel that night was rubbish.

"It took a bit more time cleaning all the bikes of course - plus we needed to clean all the spare bikes and wheels too!

"And we had four cars that were pretty muddy as well."

HTC experience low power in their showers, and their team doctor, Aldis is forced to rinse the riders with bottled water.

Did any kit get trashed beyond salvage?

"Nah mate, we were sweet.

"We only had to clean and regrease the rear hubs a few days later when we had time."

The Giro - a unique edition of a special race?

"Ah mate, the Giro is crazy.

"Only in the Giro do you have a 200k drive to the hotel after the penultimate stage, arriving at 9.30 at night with a time trial stage the next day... and everyone is just buckled.

"Not to mention the 1200k drive from Holland to Italy a few weeks before that..."

The riders seem to like the Giro's quirkiness, what about you?

"It always amazes me how the riders and staff are put through these hours of driving and bizarre hotel transfers, and everyone seems to laugh it off saying 'well that’s the Giro!'"

Leaning out the window of a car to fix a rear brake problem is all in a day's work for Kris.

How many bikes did the riders have at the race?

"At the Giro, every rider had one race bike and two spare bikes, plus we had six riders with two TT bikes and the other three had one TT bike.

"Our bikes are all more or less pretty standard. Mr. Millar uses a mechanical Dura Ace group set on his TT bikes as he can get more extension with the gear levers. Tyler Farrar uses mechanical Dura Ace on his road bikes as it has a more positive clunky feel in the sprint, which he likes."

How many mechanics were on the Giro with you?

"We had three guys there, plus Biso the bus driver who fancies himself with a spanner, so he helps out a bit when needed."

Does each mechanic have specific riders to look after?

"No, not at this Giro.

"We just do whatever work needs to be done.

"Iñaki, ‘el jefe mecanico’, likes to look after Dave Millar's bikes though - Lord help us if we lay our sweaty paws on his paintwork! (Joking, sort of.)"

How you you divide up the jobs?

"In a grand tour we usually have three mechanics, sometimes four if we are lucky.

"So, two guys go in the race cars following the riders, and the third guy drives the truck to the next hotel.

"The truck driver does all the washing, and the other two splash oil around on the bikes!"

Do you get much time to hang with the riders?

"No, not so much - and we don’t want to really!

"Apart from a bit of chit chat and making sure we have the right sprockets on - that’s about it."

What time of night do you normally get finished on a grand tour?

"Again, the Giro is special.

"Some nights we weren’t sitting down to dinner until 11pm. But normally we can expect to be finished at the truck at around 8.30 – 9pm."

Kris hard at work in the Italian sunshine.

Can you tell us a little about your routine on a grand tour?

"Sure. We finish the stage, and then head directly to the hotel with the race cars, quick smart.

"The mechanic who drove the truck to the hotel is ready and waiting to wash all the race bikes.

"The two mechanics that followed the race in the cars take all the spare material off the cars and wipe it down, or wash it if needed, and load it back into the truck.

"Then they move onto preparing the race bikes for the next day.

"By the time they have finished up with that, the 'hotel mechanic' has usually finished all the cleaning and we all close up the truck together."

What's your favourite part of the day?

"I think probably dinner time - it's a good chance to relax and have a bit of a laugh.

"I think the quietest part of the day is at the start area, where we have all the bikes lined up against the bus and we are leaning on the cars yarning to other mechanics - and to you journos. ‘Bonnet time’."

You told us before about helping other teams on that "big break" day on Stage 11 to L'Aquila...

"I was in our second car that day, and yes, we helped a few guys out who were on their own in the groupetto.

"It's not an unusual thing to do, as most of the directors who drive the second car behind the groupetto are pretty friendly with each other.

"When the race splits up, and they need to go forward to the next group on the road they ask another team to look after their riders in the group, and vice versa."

Kris enjoys his home trails in Rotorua, on New Zealand's North Island.

You're a Kiwi on an American Team - how'd that happen?

"I came to Garmin-Transitions from the New Zealand national team.

"I did a couple of years doing races based domestically, then the NZ Federation established a base in Limoux, near Carcassonne in southern France, and the National coach at the time, Jacques Landry show me the way around Europe from there.

"In 2007, when the Garmin - Slipstream team was expanding and looking for staff, I was at the right place at the right time, as they say."

Are you able to concentrate on just mechanicing or do you have to do other jobs too?

"No, we all get into the mechanic work as well as the driving.

"I actually really like driving the truck, especially when it’s a bit interesting like in the Dolomites or small carparks."

Where's the Team's Service de Corse?

"It’s right of the A7, in Gerona, Spain, where I live."

What's that like?

"Pretty good, nice weather and pretty decent mountain biking!

"My Spanish isn't great, but I get by. I can get things done - and I know a few swear words and phrases, so that impresses my mates in NZ."

Kris gets Ryder Hesjedal back into the fray.

Garmin team spirit?

"Yes, it’s good; it’s something the management and directors work hard on.

"Everyone likes a bit of a laugh and gets on with each other."

We saw you guys all celebrating at the bus when Tyler won Stage 10 into Bitonoto, everyone was delighted.

"Yeah that win was sweet; not only did it confirm Tyler as one of the peloton's best sprinters, but the whole team smashed it in the finale there, finished off by JD [Julian Dean] and Tyler."

Now, all this talk of a 'motor assist' in Cancellara's bike at Flanders and Roubaix, and other pro bikes over the last couple of years - what do you reckon?

"I think it's hilarious, and gives the bike dork media something to talk about in the lull after the Giro.

"With current battery technology, it's certainly possible, but I find it hard to believe you can mount a motor with the necessary torque, securely in a carbon frame, without the motor (or the frame) coming to pieces.

"And then trust that frame in the two hardest one day races of the year? I don’t think so."

How could the UCI prevent further furore?

"X-Ray scanners on the way to sign on!

"Really though, I reckon it will all blow over pretty quickly and there will be something else to talk about next week."

Do you get excited about new kit, discs, carbon bits?

"Oh, sometimes it is interesting to get a bit of new gear, but at the end of the day the riders still have to pedal the bike - and we still have to wash the thing!

"So really, it ends up being not all that exciting..."

Since you're a MTB'er at heart, is it 'just a job'?

"Yep, I’m more interested in my new wide bars for my singlespeed!"

Kris on his MTB on the beautiful Queen Charlotte Track.

Do you enjoy problem solving for specific rider demands?

"Yes, it's pretty cool fabricating bits and pieces, and it's something we do quite often when looking for ways to improve our TT bikes and bars, and so on.

"Mostly it’s the mechanics who come up with the ideas more than the riders demanding something."

Wiggins' TT bike at the Tour last year showed 'customised' STI levers.

Any other examples of thinking 'outside the box' to provide a solution?

"One or two - we've been playing around with modifying the Shimano front brake to make it more ‘aero’ since the Tour last year, and we have a nifty little aluminum part we have started to make to mount the Garmin computers between the extensions on our TT bikes."

Do you have a hotline to Shimano, to offer feedback and make suggestions?

"Yes, Hennie and Peter from Shimano Europe come and see us at most of the big races throughout the year.

"Also, at the Tour the Shimano Dura Ace specialists from Japan visit us at the hotel almost every night, and they often bring special or modified parts for the pro teams."

Kris and a Shimano mechanic work on a chainset at the Tour.

Lastly Kris, why the nickname "Grom"?

"Ha. A mechanic who goes by the name 'Ol Silverfox' gave it to me when I was a young lad working in the bike shop after school.

"He reckoned it was from his old surfing days, but I'm not sure he’s ever been to the beach!"

Kris will be back on the Queen Charlotte Track at Marlborough Sounds once the European season is finished.

Many thanks to Kris for his time, and we hope to see him again soon - maybe looking after Dave's bike at the Edinburgh Nocturne? (Just don't tell Iñaki).

Images © Kris Withington / Garmin Transitions / VeloResults

We had a word...

Criterium at Dumfries on Friday, Evan?

"It was my first crit of 2010 and I felt good - I did a lot of attacking and countering in the last five laps and gave Wilko (Ian Wilkinson) his lead out.

"Wilko won it from Dean Downing and Ed Clancy - I hoped to make the podium but I'd done a lot of work in those last laps and had to settle for fourth."

Endura warm up before a crit.

And a Premier on Sunday at Dumfries?

"Yeah, over 102 miles, rolling, like Doon Hame, but I was never in the inside ring.

"Callum Wilkinson and me got in a break of 12 or 13 but Julian Winn [Endura DS] told us not to work because Dean Downing and Graham Briggs were there and he thought we could get one of our sprinters across.

"In the event, we didn't and got a lot of stick from the others in the break for not contributing.

"Callum was dropped and I punctured but got neutral service and managed to get back.

"I ended up having to cover everything myself and when Deano went no one would chase.

"In the end I was sixth."

British Grass Track Champion.

Then on "the gress" Monday?

"On the Richmond track, it's round the cricket pitch, banked and very fast, they roll it before the event and you could just about get away with a disc.

"It's not like a Scottish highland games track where the cows were grazing there the day before!

"I rode 81" and had to go early because my legs were still heavy from the Premier - I was half a lap up at the end!

"Richard Lambert went first and I got up to him - he ended up third with Adam Duggleby second.

"That's my first British grass track title since my Velo Ecosse days - my third 8 K and I have two 800 metres, too."

What's the kit for the grass?

"48 x 16 with 'cross tyres on a normal track bike; the track would have been good for carbon wheels - after all, the 'cross guys ride them."

Will you be riding any of the Scottish games?

"Maybe a couple, if there's nothing else on - Blackford was on Saturday; my brother, Lewis won all four events."

How do you motivate yourself to ride grass after a Premier?

"I like the grass, it's how I started and there was more of a crowd there on Monday than any event I've raced in the UK, this year - seven to eight thousand, they reckon."

When's the next continental adventure?

"Not for a bit - this weekend we have the Ryedale, then the Scottish champs, the Beaumont and after that the British champs - and of course, there's the Tour Series crits."

Evan packing the pockets for a long day.

June seems to be 'crits are us.'

"They're not a priority for me - if it's a hard circuit then that suits me, something with a drag, like Dumfries.

"If you're fast on the road then you should be fast in a crit - and I'm going the best I ever have."

We've not seen much of Jack Bauer and Alex Blain recently.

"Jack had food poisoning and was in bed for six days - Alex had the same but maybe not quite as bad."

When do you start your Commonwealth Games build up?

"June is very busy, so I'll have a rest at the end of the month then ride a little track in July but it'll be August and September before I get fully into track work."

The Tour of Ireland has gone, does that have much of an impact?

"I didn't know - there's a couple of other races we can ride, so no, I don't think it will compromise our build up."

Are you looking forward to the Edinburgh nocturne?

"That was my last race for Plowman Craven in 2009 - I signed for Endura that night.

"And Millar won't be there - he'll be at the Tour!"

The Endura train in full effect at the Exeter edition of the Tour Series.

Valverde's ban?

"It's the right thing."

If you had your career over - what would you change?

"I wish I'd done more road, and sooner - I rode the grass and time trials until I was 21 and it takes you a couple of years just to learn how to train for, and ride, the road.

"I was in my last year as an U23 before I gained national selection - I should have ridden for GB a couple of years earlier. My career might have taken a different path if had the right selections, earlier."

With thanks to Evan for his team and hoping that busy June works out well for him.

Images courtesy of Evan, Endura Racing, Neil Batt (Fisher Outdoor Leisure)

Team Raleigh's Dan Fleeman has set the interview up for us, and we're sitting in the "Hotel Anonymous" in Walsall. A dapper, trim figure in blazer and slacks bounds up the stairs; it takes a moment to register - it's our man, Grant Thomas.

British amateur road race champion, winner of amateur six days and one of the best road men in Europe in the early 70's. There were no budget airlines, no internet, no mobile phones - just the will to go and race against the best in the world.

As Viktor put it; 'he was the coolest - nobody looked better on a bike than Grant Thomas, he was everything I wanted to be in a cyclist.'

Grant brought some old newspapers and press cuttings along to show us.

Early Days

Grant was involved in the local brass band as a lad, it was part of the culture that each mine would have it's own band, but music wasn't what inspired the youngster. "My dad saved cigarette cards and I remember looking through them and being fascinated by the racing cyclist ones", but that's only a part of why Grant wanted to become a racing cyclist himself. His dad was in the Cyclists' Touring Club, the CTC, and Grant would often accompany him on weekend runs. "We'd go down to Weston-Super-Mare at 20 mph average. Walsall was a mining village and every lad had a bike, if you didn't, you were cooped up here. Thing is, we used to see the racing guys when we were out, you could identify them by the ice cream flags they used to roll their tubs in, under their saddles."

Early UK Racing

Grant's racing went well, and he steadily progressed up through the ranks, so by 1968 he was short listed for the Mexico Olympics, on the track. "I hadn't trained for the road, and I had to fit the bike in around studying for my HNC; we got holidays from college to study for the exams, and I'd use the time to go training in the mornings."

In the late '60's, the top track riders of the day were Ian Hallam, Ron Keeble, Harry Jackson and Billy Whiteside, and Grant found himself in the team pursuit squad with them.

Winning a kermis in Flanders.

However, in the event, Grant didn't travel to Mexico for the Games. "We had a trial, the squad was divided in two and we did a full distance team pursuit - 4:36 was the target. I think my team did 4:42 to the other team's 4:38, and that was that."

Moving to Holland

In 1969, Grant had completed his HNC, and started to wonder what to do next, when fate took a turn; "When college was out of the way we'd heard that a clutch of Brummie guys had gone to Limburg in Holland to race." Grant arranged to meet one of the guys, and he gave Grant a valuable first step - an address. "So Mick Bennett and I went off Holland, found the address and knocked on the door!"

The day the two of them arrived in Holland, the fourth edition of the Amstel Gold Race was being run, with Guido Reybrouck leading a Belgian clean sweep of the first seven places. All the villages on the race route were "in feest", in festival mood, "but Mick wondered if all the flags were out for us. The family were having their tea when we arrived and I think they gave us some chips."

Grant and Bennet fixed up to stay with the family that evening, and that was it, they were organised. It was a culture shock as could be expected - not only living in a foreign country, but stepping up a level in the quality of the racing too. Nevertheless, Grant got himself noticed. "I managed to scrape a top 20 in the Tour of Limburg; that caught the eye of the promoter Charles Ruys, and I got invited to ride some omniums after that."

Ruys asked Grant; "what are you doing down here in Limburg? up in Brabant they ride twice as fast!"

A very youthful looking Thomas and Bennet with their six day soigneur. (click for the full image)

Grant got an invite to ride the Omloop Van Het Waasland, a race based around the Flemish region bordering the Netherlands to the north, who's capital is Sint-Niklaas. "We decided to move up to North Holland and got fixed up in lodgings at a village called Philippine. It was so small that when we first drove through it, we missed it, we had to turn the car and go back!"

The family Grant lived with looked after him and treated him really well, "like a son. Eventually they even bought me a car to go to races in, an Opel."

On the track Grant was a stayer, but he had an effective sprint on the road. (click for the full image)

Towards the end of the racing season, Grant decided to remain in Holland, rather than come back to England. Together with another English rider, Terry Carroll, they both went to work in the sugar beet factory in the area. "It was hard graft, humping sacks of pulp seven days a week - we used to call it the 'Sugar campaign'." Once the crop was processed for the day, the two of them would go out training. Sometimes, Grant would buy a train ticket and travel up to the Antwerp track for a session on the boards.

It wasn't just the Belgian journalists that loved Grant.

Getting it Together

In 1970, Grant started to get it together, with a string of good results in major races; 16th in Het Volk, won by Frans Verbeeck, 3rd in the Ronde Mid Zeeland, 3rd in the amateur Henninger Turm, and 10th in the 'trial' race on the Olympic circuit at Munich. "I guested for the Trico Noble team and won a race for them in Luxembourg, so that got me a ride for them in '71. It was strong team with precocious Dutch talent in it - guys like Cees Bal."

The local paper does a piece on the English lads, following Grant's win in the Omloop van der Braakman. (click for the full image)

For some reason Grant always had bad luck in the World Championships, and this year, with the Road Championships held in his own country, in Leicester, was no exception - Grant's chain broke, ending his chances. Three years later in Barcelona, a plastic bag jammed in his gears ensured the same end result.

"I finished 1970 on a high though - I got 8th, 3rd and 2nd in three late season Dutch classics. To be honest, it wasn't as hard towards the end of the season - in the spring, they're all keen and raring to go; but it got me a lot of praise from the Wielersport magazine."

Sport Expres run a background piece on Grant in 1971. (click for the full image)

In 1971, Grant went well from the start of the season, gaining selection for the Great Britain team for the Tour of Holland, the Milk Race and the Scottish Milk Race. "Trico didn't like me being away from my race programme with them, but I won the big local classic for them so that made amends. In fact, the boss was so happy with me that he took me to Yugoslavia on holiday with him!"

Track success for Grant and Mick. (click for the full image)

No Olympics

Sadly though, Grant picked up an injury over the winter, and by May '72 he realised that any chance of an Olympic berth was gone, so instead he rode a lot of criteriums. "The primes were good - you could come away from a race with the equivalent of £100 Sterling - that was a lot of money, back then."

Grant tried to defend his title in the classic that he'd won for Trico the previous year but crashed whilst in the echelon and couldn't get back on.

Another win, another interview in the paper - this time at Sheveningen. (click for the full image)

British Champion in '73

Grant's form coming into the 1973 season was up and down, and his inconsistency could be put down to the problems he had experienced over the winter with his stomach, but as he told us, "but when you're up against it you have to summon up more from the soul!"

Riding the Felix Melchor stage race in Luxembourg seemed to be the turning point, and Grant felt he had some form following that, which he hoped to take into the British Championships. "I was in better shape, but I had a cold before the title race."

Grant followed every move in the Champs, determined not to miss the winning move. "I went with everything that day, I wasn't the strongest but I think I was the smartest. Dave Vose from the very strong Kirkby club came past me in the uphill sprint, but he died before the line and I re-passed him to take the title."

Grant Thomas - British Champion.

It was around that time that Grant's leg started to play up, and the following winter saw more problems for Grant, with him ending up in hospital with inflammation of the stomach, being kept in for for seven weeks and losing a lot of weight. "I got the all-clear late January but my weight kept dropping. I came back to England on holiday but I was a waste of space, I had no strength."

Back to Blighty

Riding for the Birmingham Roads team in the UK in '75, Coventry Olympic in '76, then the all-conquering GS Strada in '77 and '78, Grant did well but was never the same again. "It's like Pijnen said, he was never the same rider after he had problems with his tonsils  - and Merckx was never the same after he had that crash behind the motorbike on the track."

Grant didn't go back to Holland to race because he knew he didn't have the brute strength necessary to be competitive, the strength he used to have - although he did spend the winter of 1977 in Philippine, the spark was gone. "Racing in the UK isn't like riding on the continent, it's hard to get the motivation."

A Pro in the UK

Despite never having taken out a professional licence in Holland, Grant turned pro for Falcon in 1979, but found it hard to get motivated for the events, such as 90 mile road races when there were only 18 or 20 other riders on the start line.

The 1980 season opener was at Aintree in Liverpool, but as Grant says, he "decided not to bother."

He was working within two weeks, and the reason was that he felt that the UK pro scene wasn't going aywhere. "It was Mickey Mouse, mostly short criteriums on tiny circuits."

Asked why he didn't turn pro when he was racing well in Holland as a young man, only 23 years old, Grant says that he simply didn't think he was good enough yet. "When I was over there, the likes of Bal, Raas and Priem - who were only 18, 19, 20 years old - were dominant. I could mix it with them, but I was at my limit. If I hadn't been ill when the Raleigh Euro Team started up, I might have considered that."

Despite health issues and failing motivation, Grant was able to team up with old pal Mick Bennet on the track, to win the amateur Rotterdam Six Day race. The pair of them trained specifically for Rotterdam, using the Sixes at Brussels and Gent to hone their track skills after some time away from the boards. "Mick was a class act, whilst I had the staying power, he had the zip."

A sturdy looking fella in his youth, was Grant.

These Days

When Grant decided to quit racing professionally, he went back to college and became qualified in work measurement using a system called PMTS - predetermined motion time systems. "If anyone needs someone qualified in that then let me know!"

Grant is impressed with the ways the pro teams are organised these days, particularly Team Sky. "They're certainly doing it properly - not like the ANC and McCartney setups." Like many people, Grant thinks that Brailsford is taking a lot on with both the professional road team and the Olympic track squads, but believes that he's a world champion manager. "Some of the pro teams back in my day were a farce; when I was with Falcon,  we were going to a race and one of the lads was to get picked up at a service station on the motorway, but they forgot to get him. At the start the manager was asking 'where's Keith?'"

Regrets

Grant didn't want to disappoint his sponsors, or track partner Mick - besides, he had such a passion for the madison, it was what drove him through the winter: yet riding the track after having done 75 races each season was perhaps too much. Grant realises he should have rested more, and taken his lead from the top guys in Holland at the time, like Hennie Kuiper. "Kuiper wouldn't ride the track in the winter, he knew his system needed to recover. Also, the twisting that you do as you change in the madisons exacerbated the problems I had with my legs, I'm sure of that..."

His voice tails off and it's time for us to go, but it was a privilege to spend an afternoon in the company of a man who went out and did what the others just dreamed about.

Thanks to Grant for his time, and thanks to Dan for arranging it.

Clinton Avery ? Or this man, who has a great Scottish name, but is also from the land of the long white cloud.

One man and his dog.

Give us a little background - age, where from in NZ, what did you ride back home ?

"Well, my name is Ruaraidh Mor McLeod.

"I'm from a small village called Governors Bay its on the Banks Peninsula, which is 10kms out of Christchurch, in the South Island of New Zealand.

"I first started riding for recuperation after a football injury when I was about 14. From there I have raced on both the road and the track, I would say my best result on the road would be winning the National U17 road race title and the New Zealand U19 selection Tour.

"And the track would be at last year's Junior world Track Champs in Moscow, where I placed 4th in the Individual Pursuit also the year before where I got a 3rd in the Team Pursuit."

Why Belgium ?

"I see it as the hub of cycling, there are so many races of such good fields and you don't get that in New Zealand.

"I wanted to come to Europe and race. And for me this year, Belgium is the best option."

How did you get your team ?

"My coach Terry Gyde really kicked it all off, he has been very busy working with Allan Peiper, Andrew McQuaid and a few others to set me up this year.

"In the end Team Isorex from Belgium was the best option. There were a few teams in France, but they said towing a new man around for you first 6 months wouldn't be the greatest."

Ruaraidh is happy at his Belgian team.

Tell us a little about the team - do you get bike and clothing ?

"Isorex Team is based out of Gavere in Belgium. It's not a big team as it's their first year in U23 ranks, but it is a great set up.

"We have some inter clubs, a tour in France and the Tour of Liege along with a lot more, I just don't know the names of. The second week I was here they took the team to Germany for a training camp, that was pretty special.

"We get heaps of clothing, both riding and casual.

"I use my own road bike, but Allan Peiper has set me up with one of the Columbia team's TT bikes along with Zipp 404's and HED S4's.

"So it was like Christmas getting all that kit, bikes and wheels on the same day."

How did you get organised with a family ?

"The family was also set up through Allan Peiper and the manager of the team Dirk Willemijns.

"The family are amazing, they treat me just like one of their own. They have a son who is the same age (18), he races with the Qin Cycling team.

"Michael Vink also from New Zealand and also in Isorex stay's with them too. We have a lot of fun and are involved in all the outings etc. I think next Saturday we are off to a wedding!"

What are your first impressions of Belgian cycle sport ?

"Its crazy, nothing like in New Zealand. For example the day I arrived I went and watched a Pro race that had all the pro tour teams in it.

"You see heaps of pro's around, especially at this time with the classics.

"In New Zealand for an “A Grade” race you would get maybe 30 riders turning up, but here you get 200-plus!"

Does the style of racing suit you ?

"Yes I like the style here, its very hard and fast, lots of time spent in the gutter.

"Also big fields here, which you can recover in a bit better, but you have to stay up the front to keep safe."

Belgium, with its hard racing, suits Ruaraidh well.

How many races have you ridden, now ?

"I have had three races, but the second I was sick so I pulled out of in the first 30kms.

"The first was a 19 laps of a six kilometre circuit, with 226 starters. I got to the start line late, so was at the back, it took me three laps to find the front, then the move went and I just got in it. I finished up 13th so it wasn't to bad for my first outing.

"Also the U23 RVV, which is a nations cup. I didn't have the ideal lead in as I had been sick for over a week with a cold and on antibiotics.

"I got to the Molenburg with about 50km to go, I was too far back, and it was basically race over.

"This week I have two more nations cups le Cote Picardie in France and the ZLM Tour in Holland with the National team."

How do you like Deinze ?

"I actually live a few ks out of it, but we go in there a bit, its a nice town, the main street is cool with all the shops.

"On my rest days I ride in on the town bike and cruise around for something to do."

What are the biggest differences between NZ and Belgium ?

"I guess the language, and its a lot flatter on the riding side of things.

"Also riding on the other side of the road, but you get used to that pretty quick.

"The people here are really nice and always have plenty of time for you. I really like it."

I believe you have a tie in with the Columbia team ?

"Yes Alan Peiper has helped set up a lot this year for me, and he has been very kind to send a TT bike and carbon wheels my way for the season.

"He's a great guy, he was one of the first guys to come from Aussie and race over here 35 years ago.

"So he has been there and done it, and done it well. So to have him looking out for you is wonderful."

Tell us about your Flanders recon with the Columbia boys.

"It was awesome, also funny in a way, as just last year I would see them on the TV in all the pro races and now to go training with them is pretty crazy.

"I went with Bernard Eisel and the Velits brothers.

"We did about 4 hours and covered most of the hills. They are really nice guys and really down to earth. We even had a support car and ended the day with coffee and cake.

"A real highlight."

What did you think of RVV day ?

"It was pretty full on, I was actually sick so I didn't go out and watch them, I just saw it on TV.

"But the ride from Cancellara was pretty amazing."

Ruaraidh is an accomplished track rider too.

On your blog there's a photo of you on a NZ pursuit bike in national strip - tell us about that.

"That was at the Junior World Track Champs in Moscow last year, It was the Individual Pursuit.

"I qualified for the bronze medal ride off with a 3.19, but I didn't have a good final.

"The coach who had not let me train for the Individual pursuit in our three week build up, also made me ride the final to a silly schedule. That's another story in itself, and that's why I'm here in Belgium on the Road and loving it!"

Are you missing anything about NZ ?

"No I can't say I am yet. I guess my there's always your family and friends, but you can keep in touch, easily.

"How ever my dog hasn't mastered the phone yet. So I'm lucky my host family have one here."

We may have another one, here - we'll keep you posted.  You can follow Ruaraidh on his blog.

Tom developed tendinitis in both knees in January, which kept him off the bike for a month - not ideal preparation.

Here's what he had to say...

Tom in 2010 team kit.

A late start to the season, Tom ?

"Yes, but it will mean I'm fresher at the end of the season... hopefully."

What did you do over the winter? work and training ?

"The winter was again spent catching up with old friends and family that don't get much attention throughout the year but also working in the local triathlon shop in town and of course the obligatory kilometres on the vélo.

"I managed to get away to Lanzarote for ten days in December to escape the snow and top up the tan even, but I was soon chilled to the bone a few minutes after getting home.

"There's a long story to be told about no flights going back to the UK from Lanzarote due to snow, all this three days before Christmas.

"I made it back to catch Santa so all was ok!"

Ever ride any 'cross?

"Not yet... but it's on my To Do list!"

How's '10 fitness compare to '09?

"It's taken me a while to get back up to speed after time off and starting again from zero pretty much, but now I'm back on track, the legs are feeling pretty good and I feel stronger than last season already and the form is only going to improve."

Same club as 2009?

"BIC 2000 again, a few comings and goings and now I am a "protected rider", just got to ride faster than all the others on the start line now."

New bike? Good fit?

"This years bike is the same make as last year (Félino) but a better model.

"Its a lot stiffer than last years bike which was rather "chewing-gum"-like by the end of the season and its light too, which always helps.

"We're sponsored again by Mavic so we've got R-SYS wheels or Cosmic Carbone's to roll with."

Kit is much the same as last season.

Ditto, new clothes?

"The kit hasn't changed too much from last year, just a few shifts about on the jersey with sponsors."

How many races have you done, so far? how do you feel?

"I've now got about seven races in the legs after starting mid/end of March and so far things are on the up and up, every weekend I seem to feel better than the last.

"I've already managed to nab a 2nd place. Not too bad so far."

What are the opportunities like to race - how many/week?

"So far its been Saturdays and Sundays racing but now races are starting to pop up all over the place.

"We're doing quite a lot of traveling around France to race this season so that cuts down what I can do in the week."

Who's going well, in the Region?

"Seems like there's a good level out here this season. Foreigners-wise, there's a lad called Daniel Barry from New Zealand who's going well at the moment and I've been off the front with Richard Meadows a few times too."

There's plenty racing in France for Tom, this is at Lesneven.

What's a typical week look like race/train wise?

"Recovery ride Monday; few hours Tuesday with some more specific work; Wednesday is usually either a long ride or a split day meaning I can get two long rides in with often some specific work in the morning ride, followed by an easier ride in the afternoon;

"Thursday is another day for specific intervals; Friday is usually an easy day or a rest or if i'm racing Saturday then I'll turn the legs over for the race.

"I've got a French cup TT in 2weeks, the 1st of May so I've been doing more and more rides on my TT bike recently, and following that I've got a good elite stage race here in Brittany, the Essor Breton so the volume has gone up in the last ten days to get the k's in before then."

How's the programme for 2010?

"Bigger and better.

"We've got several 1.2's on the programme this season as well as the amateur French cup series.

"The local chippers will seem like a ride in the park after those - well, hopefully!"

Tom racing at Bousquet.

How's the French? rusty after the winter?

"Its not as bad I though it would be.

"I think having a team mate come over to visit for a month this winter kept me up to scratch."

What are the new digs like?

"I've moved town, to Brest this year, bit further north than last year, and a bigger town.

"I'm living with Laurent Le Gac and Gwenael Simon from the team in a sweet apartment. Everyone's got their own room and Gwenael has brought along his huge wide-screen tv so all's good for the moment!"

Are you a good cook? what sort of grub do you eat?

"I can slap up a good meal if I need to and living with two others now its more reason to cook a nice meal.

"The other two cook well, so between us we seem to manage to put some pretty good grub on the table."

Thanks Tom, all the best for the season - we'll keep in touch.

His dad introduced him to cycling five years ago, initially mountain biking, and has mentored him ever since then, with Robert getting more into the road scene as he turned Junior a couple of years ago...

Robert at the end of Doonhame Stage 2 - finishing with the front group.

You have dropped MTB altogether now?

"Yes, I was better at the road so decided last year would be my final season racing as a mountain biker so I can fully focus my training and time doing road racing to maximise my chance of making it to the top."

College or working?

"I’m in my first year studying Civil Engineering at Strathclyde.

"It’s pretty heavy going but interesting at the same time. Good thing is most days you get let out after lunch which means you have time to get out on the bike."

Any relation to the legendary Dave Hassan?

"Yep, he’s my Uncle and was a powerhouse in the 80’s and part of the team who won the British TTT champs 1988. Hope I get strong as him in the future!"

Near the finish of the last stage of Tour of Wales, where Robert took 4th.

What were your juvenile and junior results like?

"Last year after a bad start due to illness and a LOT of crashing, my season improved and I began making an impact later on in the British Junior series with a 12th Tom Simpson RR and 10th in the Bath RR.

"I got a bronze medal in last British Junior XC Champs which was good, but my biggy was in August where I got 4th in the last stageof the Junior Tour of Wales which finished on the Tumble Climb.

"I was always pretty young for my age which pulled me down a bit at youth/junior level... but this year’s a different story!"

Is Doon Hame the biggest race you've ridden, so far?

"Definitely the biggest I’ve done so far.

"But also it was a completely different sort of race than I’ve done before because it was a lot more of a team race, where the best British teams are battling it out to gain control for the sprint, very like what you see in the ProTour on the Telly.

"Great experience though and looking forward to the next one I do.."

How did it feel lining up with the Blains and Bauers of this world?

"It felt amazing before the start of the race seeing all the top guys and teams, but once the race began I forget who I was racing against and I just get stuck in."

Robert kept with some great company at Doon Hame for such a young lad.

Tell us a little about stage one.

"Compared to the other stages it was the easiest but it was good to get used to the pace and the size of bunch. The route was pretty straight forward, no testing climbs or strong cross wind to split the bunch up. I got in a few moves early on but nothing was staying away for long.

"I found it hard to stay up near the front in the last few miles with the big teams vying to get their men near the front. One minute you’re near the front, the next your back in the middle again. That happened to me at a few K to go and ended up finishing mid pack. It’s amazing the first time you do a race at this level; you get a right buzz out of it."

Stage two?

"For me it was a long stage, ended up 98 mile which is the longest race I’ve ever done. Much hillier as well than that of the day before so I just tried to conserve myself till later on when the race really hots up.

"The last two climbs of the day were on farm roads, very narrow, so you had to watch out not get caught behind the splits with the relentless pace the Rapha and Raleigh guys were setting. There were a lot of punctures in these sections; all the riders were getting them including my team mate Dougie Young who was up there as well.

"I found keeping up on the descents harder than the climbs because you’re having concentrate on where you’re going, missing all the potholes and then sprinting out of corners to keep up. I lasted the whole distance until the final hundred metres where I just lost the wheel on the uphill sprint."

They put Robert at 12 secs down on Stage 2, but he was happy to finish with the top riders.

Stage three?

"It was miserable day weather-wise, but I focussed like the day before in conserving myself till nearer the end when I knew the pace would rocket up.

"After surviving the crosswinds and floods in the exposed moorlands, all that was left were myself and around thirty guys. I was fatiguing a lot in the last 15 miles where the cross winds as well as the sheer speed the Rapha guys were putting to catch Endura’s Bauer, were taking their toll.

"I managed to sprint to 27th and was that place on GC. After three days of fast racing and my first Prem [Premier Calendar Race], I was well chuffed of my position. Bring on the next one!"

Best moment of the race?

"Finishing the last stage with the best domestic riders in the country and only losing 42 secs on Chris Newton, 30 secs of that on bonus seconds. Hopefully later on I can have the strength and endurance to compete in the finishes."

Worst moment of the race?

"Only just avoiding two nasty crashes on stage 1 and another one on stage 3."

What's your main goal for 2010?

"Winning the Scottish Road Champs and a podium in the U23 British Champs."

Did you get a lay-in on Tuesday?

"Don’t think I got up on Tuesday!"

Thanks to Robert for his time, and best of luck for the rest of the season. One to watch we reckon!

Sadly, none of the VeloResults could make it down to one of our favourite races, but we spoke to Evan soon after his win.

Evan chilling out.

Finally a Drummond win for you, Evan.

"I've ridden four or five times; it was one of my very first races for Velo Ecosse, way back.

"I rode in a skinsuit in the snow and finished 13th - I remember Jason Macintyre shaking his head at me when he saw what I was wearing!"

How was the weather ?

"It was sunny but chilly, I rode with knee warmers on."

And the course?

"It wasn't the same as last year - there were four small circuits with a steep climb then a big loop to give 95 miles - I made race time 3 hours and 55 minutes."

How many Enduras on the start line?

"Eight, but Thwaites and Callum Wilkinson went out early with mechanicals; Ian Wilkinson didn't come up."

And how did it pan out?

"There was an early break of six, I bridged up, then another group came across to make it 15 up front.

"It stayed like that for ages but then a few were dropped and another group came up to give 18 in the lead.

"We opened up a big lead and even had time for us to stop for a pee break on the transmitter mast climb.

"James McCallum and I attacked and only Robert Hassan (Glasgow Wh.) and a lad from Stirling could go with us.

"The Stirling guy was shelled and when that happened, Hassan stopped working.

"Eventually he was dropped but just hung on for third, Ross Creber almost caught him on the line."

You rode the National 10, last weekend.

"I was forced off the road by a car, near the turn, ripping the wing mirror off the car!

"The end of my tri-bars were covered in red paint off his door - but he never stopped.

"I lost about 30 seconds, I wouldn't have beaten Doyle but I certainly think I would have got silver or bronze.

"I put a minute into Carlos Riise at the Culloden 10, the following day - and he was in the medals on Saturday..."

Evan with his 2 day old time trial bike, at the National 10 Champs.

No Rutland, then?

"We already had a team of six in, plus I think that race is a bit of a lottery."

How did Finisterre and Tro Bro Leon go?

"In Finisterre, I missed the split and finished in the group sprinting for 30th place or thereabout, I didn't sprint; 30th or 60th, what's the difference?

"In Tro Bro I punctured after 100 miles, it was on an off road section and just at that time there was a crash behind with the team cars and I had to get neutral service.

"It was a good work out - 220 K at Finisterre and around 200 K at Tro Bro.

"It was a nightmare getting there, though - there were no flights, so I had to drive to Southampton and get the ferry - then the reverse on the way back."

The Endura Racing boys prepare for action at Finisterre.

What's the programme, now?

"We've been accepted for the Tour of Britain, so I'll be working towards that.

"The ToB will be my last race before I start to focus specifically on my training for the Commonwealth Games.

"I'll be riding the road at the Games but will be focusing on the track; it's much less of a lottery - I only missed a medal by one point in the points race last time.

"In the short term, there's the Lincoln GP, a stage race in France and the Premier at Dumfries, coming up.

"My programme will be mostly road, we have a core team to ride the criterium series - although I may ride a couple.

Evan in this year's Haut Var.

And Endura have an additional manager?

"Yes, Julian Winn has been drafted in to work alongside Garry Beckett, we're riding a dual programme a lot of the time and Garry has commitments with Bradley Wiggins.

"He spends quite a bit of time at Girona; he does motor pacing and massage for Bradley.

"Oh! And don't forget to mention that the mechanic put diesel instead of petrol in his car, on the way home from the Tro Bro!"

The joys of pro bike racing - with thanks to Evan and wishing him 'all the best' for the Lincoln GP (albeit our money is on Dan Fleeman).

Result

1 Evan Oliphant Endura Racing
2 James McCallum Endura Racing
3 Robert Hassan Glasgow Whls
4 Ross Creber Endura Racing
5 Ashley Finn www.Cyclepremier.com - Metaltek
6 Matthew Kipling MTS Cycle Sport/ Inkland RT
7 David Lines Endura Racing
8 Gary Hand Endura Racing
9 James Moss Endura Racing
10 Robin Wilkins Stirling Bike Club
11 Scott Macrae Team Leslie Bike Shop - Right Move Windows
12 Craig Adams Falkirk Bicycle Club
13 Graham McGarrity Dooley's Cycles Racing Team
14 Stuart MacGregor Dooley's Cycles Racing Team
15 Robert Friel Raleigh Racing Team
16 John Kermode Dundee Thistle RC
17 Bryan Pool Annan 2010 Racing
18 Martin Coopland Falkirk Bicycle Club
19 Keith Robertson Granite City RT
20 Graeme Neagle Glasgow Whls
21 Alastair McNicol
22 Stephen Russell East Kilbride Road Club
23 Kenneth Armstrong Ayr Roads / Harry Fairbairn CC
24 Paul Rennie Dooley's Cycles Racing Team
25 Phil Allan Granite City RT
26 Gavin Barnes Scottish MTB Leaders Association
27 Grant Stevenson Glasgow Whls
28 Andrew Brierley Team Leslie Bike Shop - Right Move Windows
29 Steven Dunn Falkirk Bicycle Club
30 James Daly Johnstone Wheelers CC
31 Raymond Small
32 Raymond Turner Newcastle Phoenix Cycling Club

Jack shows us how light his TT bike is, Tour of Murcia last month.

Nice ride, Jack - but how are you getting on with the Scottish weather?

"I have to say that I didn't really enjoy it today!

"But Sunday was good and hopefully, as the summer rolls round, it'll get better."

Was the move today pre-planned?

"No, I went somewhere between the two King of the Mountains.

"I attacked to put Rapha under pressure, the plan was to do that so maybe Wilko could get the jersey in the finale. I was with a couple of other guys initially but they whittled away and I was on my own 40 or 50 seconds up.

"Man, when they let me go, I thought; "I can pick up a time bonus on the road and one for the win, maybe I can win overall."

No victory salute.

"No, I was driving those pedals all the way to the line, I could see the chasers coming and knew I needed those 12-14 seconds - a salute would have been nice but I needed the time!"

No time to lose: Jack needed those precious seconds.

Sigma helped Rapha chase, we heard?

"Yeah, I heard that, Simon Richardson helped them - I don't know the fella or why he did that.

"It's a pity, we had Rapha on the ropes, there was just Newton (eventual winner) and House left."

What do you think of the standard of racing in the UK?

"It's impressive; Rapha, Motor Point, Sigma are all well organised.

"If these teams are committed to controlling it so it ends in a sprint, it's very hard to sneak away, that's why, when I saw the chance today, I took it."

Parcours?

"I was surprised by the road conditions, the potholes and ruts - it was dodgy.

"You had to pay attention all the time; our team blew a lot of tyres.

"But I guess it's a new race and they have to try the routes out."

Did you steer clear of the crashes.

"Yeah, and just one puncture, on stage one."

DS Garry Beckett and Jack head for the podium presentation.

You lost Alex Blain.

"Sure. After a he had a shocker of a crash, the officials saw something they didn't like and he was out.

"It's a real pity, we missed his knowledge and raw power, today."

What did you think of the spectator turn out?

"I thought there would be more, but I don't know what's normal in Scotland - I don't know if it's a 'followed' sport."

How was the organisation?

"There were was a key blunder when they were announcing the podium, I was second on GC but the called someone else to the podium for second.

"I was disappointed with that for my first Scottish race."

Where's 'home' in the UK?

"Manchester, Fallowfield, it's a British Cycling apartment which I share with my team mate, Jason Christie; another team mate, Rob Partridge is close by and Rob Hayles isn't so far away.

"The two Robs know the quick ways out of the city and the good lanes to train on."

Is that NZ champ's jersey getting lots of attention?

"It definitely did in Murcia and in France; it's very recognisable and gets me lots of attention, people know what it is."

Jack enjoys the spoils as stage winner.

Murcia?

"I had a great time; suddenly I was in a race with these huge names that I've read about in the magazines."

You showed great promise in the time trial at Murcia.

"It was my first one; although I tend to ride my road races in that style - I get as aero as I can, once I'm on my own and blast away in a big gear.

"I figured that the TT bike, aero helmet and disc wheel would all be good - and they were.

"It's something I'll work on but I think I just have the natural strength to be good at it."

Nearly finished, Murcia TT.

Are the Commonwealth Games important to you?

"Definitely, they're my big goal; it'll be a dream come true if I get selected.

"I have to prove myself to the selectors though; but I'm aiming to be there."

Next races?

"I think it's the Glade CC road race, down south, next weekend.

"Then it's Finisterre and the Tro Bro Leon in France."

Jack doesn't really mind the Scottish weather.

How about the UK?

"It's a bit cold and wet - I haven't seen the sun since I got here! But I hope it picks up in May and June.

"But I do like the Postman Pat mail vans and the old style taxi cabs - they're cool!"

We'll be talking Jack after the Tro Bro Leon - a race that's made for him and Alex Blain; bon chance, mes amis!

Images © Ed Hood / Endura Racing

The next day, Vik's back on the phone: 'he's in Belgium - I saw his name in the results.'

Time for that detective work!

Sean's enjoying his racing in Belgium.

How long since you raced in Scotland, Sean?

"Oh, a long time - three years, I think."

Why leave the UK?

Sean hasn't raced in the UK for several years.

"I got some good results in Premiers and fancied trying it abroad; racing with the best, to see where I could go.

"Initially, I got help from Braveheart, I stayed at the Sean Kelly house and eventually got an invite into a team."

Why Belgium, not France or Italy - more suited to your build?

"I thought about France but I'm not a great linguist and you have to speak French and have contacts to race there; whilst in Belgium a lot of people speak English.

"There's more racing in Belgium too; there are still a lot of local kermesses which you can just turn up and ride.

"And in Italy, it's more complicated, I think you can only have one foreigner per team."

How long is that you've raced here?

"This is my third season, and my second full year."

How did you get set up?

Sean's team, Heist-Zuiderkenpen.

"Brian Smith helped me, three seasons ago when I was just 21. I stayed in the Kelly house but moved on to living with a family.

"Initially it was with Braveheart but they changed the criteria and I had to make my own way.

"I made some contacts and stayed with Tim Harris (ex British pro champion).  I arrived with just my bank card, clothes, bike and bag, and that was two years ago - eventually I was approached by a club.

"I changed clubs twice, the first time because they were going for younger riders and the second time because the team I was with didn't have as good a programme as they said they would.

"I'm with Heist-Zuiderkenpen now. it's a good set-up, as far as riding as a team and race programme goes. We're in the 'Top Comps' riding against the Pro Tour team feeder teams - Davo for Lotto and Beveren 2000 for QuickStep. I was racing against Adam Blythe last year, for instance."

Does the club supply a bike?

"No, but tyres, equipment, all the clothing and you get frames at a really good price. We don't have a specified bike for the team, but like I say, you get help.

"The team car picks me up to go to races - but the family I live with me are happy to give me the car for travelling to races, if I want."

No help from Braveheart now?

"No, they changed the criteria for providing funding."

Sean is getting to ride a good programme.

Will you be racing in the UK?

"I plan to come back when there are breaks in our team schedule; but the programme is getting fuller all the time - we have events in Germany and Holland, but I want to come back for the Nationals and some Premiers."

How long do you think you'll stay?

"As long as I can! I plan to live here, I've had so much fun.

"I'm going to language school in September to learn Flemish, properly."

Were you home for the winter?

"I was back home for a month, but I spent most of the winter here.

"I got a job in a window manufacturing factory - I couldn't get a job back in the UK.

"It's a good thing because it means you spend more time training with the squad and get to know then better."

Sean (in blue) takes an easy left.

What's been your best result?

"I've had a top 20 in a Top Comp. But I haven't had great results this year so far, I was sick for three weeks in the winter.

"The form comes though, if you're riding 150 kilometre races with 200 rider fields.

"The racing is very aggressive; it's not like Scotland where you can sit at the back then surge to the front when you feel like it."

Goals?

"To see how far I can go - eventually, hopefully to turn pro.

"I'm at this level, riding Top Comps - and now I want to move up to the next one."

Turn pro or not, respect to Sean for getting himself out to the Heartland - and thanks to him for talking to us.

Finlay is a 'chip off the old block,' Dad Hamish was a Bonnyrigg man, back in the 'good old days' of Davie Toole and Alan Gray; now his company, Harley Haddow is one of Finlay's team's sponsors - good to see that dad's money is being well spent.

As he should, Finlay has tried many aspects of cycle sport.

A good win at the weekend, Finlay.

"Yeah, it was 50 miles, 10 laps of a five mile hilly circuit, we were racing with the 3rd and 4th cats but I managed to win it overall, not just the junior prize."

You were away all day.

"Three of us went away from two miles out then we were caught by another eight at around half distance.

"I went again with about a kilometre to go, two went with me but one cracked and I jumped around the other before the line, I didn't want to leave it too late, with the wind and the gradient."

We don't see many juniors at Scottish time trial champs?

"I think that juniors prefer to ride road races, it's more fun than riding time trials where you just role up, ride, get your time and go home. [accurate appraisal, there!]

"There were eight or nine juniors in the field at the Jack Murray Road Race - I think that was out of a full field of 60 riders."

Are there many junior road races in Scotland?

"No, we usually ride with the thirds and fourths but we can ride the Super Sixes."

Do they still have the Peter Buckley junior race series, in England?

"Yes, but they don't call it that any more, it's the British Junior Road Series.

"I rode one in Wales the other week, there were 80 starters, with entries returned, I didn't get on too well - it was the hilliest race I've ever been in!"

Finlay has already represented his country, in the Tour of Wales.

I believe you have a trip to Belgium in the offing?

"Yes, Scottish Cycling are taking six of us to a four day junior stage race in Limburg, Belgium - I'm really looking forward to it."

How do you fit training in with school?

"I used to rush home to get the daylight or do stuff on the turbo but now I'm in sixth year and can finish at lunch time to get out training - that's pretty cool."

How was 2009 for you?

"It was my 'starting season,' really and I'd never really raced properly before; I rode in Belgium twice and the British road and track Nationals - it opened my eyes to what racing is all about."

At the Inverkeithing cyclo-cross last winter.

Do you like the track?

"Yes, I ride scratch, points, pursuit and madison - I used to ride Meadowbank Track League but there are too many rules now, you even have to sit an exam.

"It's £5.50 to ride and sometimes the field isn't that big - you get more benefit from going out with the chain gang."

Will there be other trips to the continent, this year?

"Hopefully yes, after school is finished I'd like to go to Belgium and race; and we have the Junior Tour of Ireland and a stage race in the French Alps with Scottish Cycling."

Racing in the unique Nocturne series event in Edinburgh's old town.

Who's your favourite rider?

"Lance is always there; but I'd have to go for a track guy - Alex Rasmussen [the new World Scratch Champion, Saxo Bank & Denmark], he's cool."

What do you want from 2010?

"I want to learn how to race properly and how to regularly get into a race winning situation."

Good goals to have; but Lance?... still, he's young!

Enter Brian Smith and Endura - followed by some strong performances from the man from the South.

He spoke exclusively to VeloResults after his excellent ride in the Tour of Murcia.

Alex enjoys the rewards as Meta Volante Winner at the Tour of Murcia.

How are you coping with the Scottish accents

"I’m learning every day!

"I learned English with French teachers who I think didn't have good English accents; and I practiced the language in the US; now you understand my difficulties with Scottish accents!

"But I think you must have more problems if I start to speak Nicois!

"So no worries, by the summer I'll be used to Scots!"

Alex's Endura "hero pic".

Tell us a little about your amateur career, please.

"I started road cycling in 2004 with Haribo/Aix en Provence DN1 French elite team.

"I learned all I need to become a good road cyclist and to be professional. It was a very good team who offered me many opportunities in the European Continental Tour.

"I won many races with this team but 2007 was my best season with seven wins (five in Continental Tour races), it's what helped me to join Cofidis in 2008."

You turned pro with Cofidis quite late.

"Before road cycling, I was a MTB rider (cross country between 1998 to 2003 and downhill between 1996 to 1998) and before that I was a skier and track and field athlete.

"So I hadn't a traditional background for a professional cyclist and I turned to it later.

"I also studied in sports and physiology at university to obtain a master 2 in physical preparation for high level athletes in 2003."

Alexandre rode with Cofidis for two years, riding Paris-Roubaix last year and finishing.

Describe yourself as a rider.

"I'm a determined rider; I think “if I want, I can”. So my head is my best quality - because I never die.

"I can come back, even when you forget me!

"Also, I'm a massive rider, 187cm & 80kg - strong, fast, ever aggressive to catch the first group, so perfect for Flandrian races. I think I have all the qualities to hope to win Paris-Roubaix; if I can practice more on the pave - but I've no chances to win a grand tour GC!"

Alex sprinting behind Philippe Gilbert and in front of André Greipel, Dunkerque 4 Days last year. (click for the full image)

Were you surprised not to be retained by Cofidis?

"For sure!

"With all I did for the team during two years, it was a big surprise. I rode every time, every race for my teammates and for the team and when I had a little bit of opportunity I tried to make the most of it for a good result.

"But I didn't win with the Cofidis jersey and my relationships with the calendar races manager was so bad that the collaboration couldn't continue!"

Did you think that maybe your pro career was over?

"I think it's a comeback for me, with new people who want to help me and work from the ground up with me.

"I restart my career with new goals and with people who trust in me and try to do their best for me.

"I’m like a newborn today!"

How did you get the Endura ride?

"Through a friend of Stephen Roche.

"After, the link was completed between Stephen, Brian Smith and Jim McFarlane at the end of December."

Alex gets great support at Endura.

French team/Scottish team; biggest differences?

"In a French team you never have baked beans for breakfast! That is the most difference we have!

"No, seriously, I like the respect there is between staff and riders in UK teams.

"When you are rider in UK you feel important. In French team if you're not a leader, you're a "shit".

"Also, in France when the team wants something, managers wait a long time to hand over money or the things you need.

"In Anglo-Saxon culture, when you want something, you do your best! And for a guy like me it's what I need!"

You must be disappointed that you lost two good opportunities during the Tour of the Med? [directed off course when in winning split and race shortened by weather]

"Sure, I trained very hard to be in good form for this race because it was at home.

"I wanted to show for my first race I wasn't dead and when you're unlucky it's frustrating. But it was a good learning experience for the next race."

A good opening day in Murcia. [He took, and eventually won, the Meta Volante jersey]

"Yes, very good.

"I tried every day to catch the escape since the beginning of the season.

"And in Murcia, after two big professional races, I was in good form to do great things. So I did all I can to show the Endura jersey the first day and days after. When you do a good first day and keep a leader’s jersey in stages race, you're more focused and determined.

"My first day in Murcia was the start point of my very good week in this race."

Alex rode a superb Murcia to keep the blue jersey.

Do you feel you have a point to prove to Cofidis?

"No, I'm not interested about what Cofidis think. I'm just focused on Endura.

"And I just want to know what my team thinks about me and my job.

"After that, if I can prove to Cofidis that they were wrong, it will be a great satisfaction.

"But with my first results and all the press around me these last weeks, I think I’ve done that!"

Defending the MV jersey in the Murcia time trial.

Your first time on SRAM?

"SRAM is a very nice system. I like it; it's light, precise, pretty and ergonomic.

"I just hope they are going to create an eleven speed; I've ridden with Campagnolo 11 last year and for training in the Nice area, 11-25 is more comfortable than 11-23."

How does the Endura clothing compare to the Cofidis kit?

"Endura have many different products. More than we had with Cofidis and the Nalini bike clothes - Endura are very technical clothes. It's nice and I feel very comfortable in the bib short and race jersey.

"Even the jersey is made with special coolmax, I just hope the black colour isn't going to be too hot under the Cote d'Azur sun.

"Also, Endura ask us to choose between different products and it's nice to be able to feedback on our feelings on clothes.

"The products for rain are very impressive; I think you can swim with them!

"Finally, for presentations and all day clothes, Endura gave us very nice pants, shirts, jackets, beanie... They are technical too, like trail or running clothes; and on this point, it's very much better than you can have with Cofidis."

No complaints from AB about the kit; "it's very much better than Cofidis".

I believe you've negotiated the team into other races?

"Yes, I tried to link my French contacts with Rob Hayles and Jim McFarlane.

"I have opportunities to help the team to race into the French Cup and other beautiful stages races 2.1 or 2.2.

"The problem is that the Premier Calendar and the Tour Series program clashes for many races.

"But I think if we want to access to the Continental Pro level, we need to race more in France, Spain, Belgium or other countries where we can race in 1.1 and 2.1 events on the European tour."

Have you ever raced in the UK?

"Never; The Tour Doon Haem will be my first UK race."

He's recognisable alright.

Your goals for 2010?

"I'm very focused for Tro-Bro Léon and CiCLE Classic.

"But I want to win or help my teammates to win every time I can.

"I want to do my best every day on every stage on every race to show the Endura jersey and give to the team all the results we need to catch sponsors, organisers and UCI attention."

And the hair?

"It's my style, my ID!"

In a world of one dimensional stars, Endura have got a real character there - like I said to Jim McFarlane; 'you've won a watch with Blain!'

With thanks to Alex and Endura PR, Martin Steele for their time and effort.

Footnote: Marlene has asked me to point out that it's a Celtic culture he's now part of - not Anglo-Saxon [it's tough having two editors, eh Ed?!].

We make no apology for featuring Endura Racing again - they're out there, getting on with the business of pro bike racing.

The Tour of the Med, Haut Var, Murcia and now - Singapore.

We caught up with former British criterium champion and reigning British omnium champion, James McCallum to get the low down on one of the richest crits around - (he was on the way to the supermarket when we spoke to him, but don't tell anyone, those glam pros aren't supposed do the 'trolley thing.')

James messing around at a cafe stop.

How did you get the ride, James?

"Rob Hayles got an invite from Alan Rushton, who organised the race; Rob said to me, when we were in France; 'do you fancy riding a crit in Singapore?'

"There was Rob, me plus Scott Thwaites and Sandy King - with Matt Ellis as mechanic."

I heard it was damn hot.

"It was 'biylin!' 30 degrees with 80% humidity.

"It was like being in a sweat box but we were only there a few days - the day before was probably as hard as the race; a big group of us went out and it turned into a 'smash fest.'

"Jaan Kirsipuu punctured and we all waited for him; just as well because Tom Southam's crank fell off just at the same moment - if we hadn't stopped for Kirsipuu we'd never have noticed that and he's still be trying to get back to the hotel, now!"

How did the race go?

"It was held on the Formula One track so it was a a massive, wide course.

"There was a $US 12,500 first prize with money down to 25th place - our plan was to stay together and move up late.

"The field was pretty cosmopolitan with Euro Pro Tour teams like Footon and Lampre plus US squads like Bissell and Kelly, not to mention Aussie outfits like Fly V.

"The corners were wide and sweeping so there were no tricky bits where you had to brake - into the last few laps it was apparent that it was going to be a bunch sprint, so we got our string together.

"It was perfect for us, I was last wheel with Rob at the front - but when I got out of the saddle to go at 300 to go, I'd punctured and that was that!

"Rob got 20th, Scott was 21st and I was 25th - so we came away with a few bob."

James is loving the Pro lifestyle.

Where did all the dosh come from?

"It was sponsored by OCBC Bank, it's the longest established bank in Singapore and has one of the highest credit ratings in the world.

"It was a great race, we were really well looked after; hotels, shuttle buses, everything - and the food was awesome."

Kirsten won for Australia and Fly V.

"He was very impressive, he won the US crit champs, last year and has made a brilliant transition from kilo rider to road rider.

"He won by five or six lengths clear - once he hits that top end kilo speed no one can get near him.

"Fly V were impressive too, they gave him a very good lead out."

Changing the subject - what about the big crash, in The Med?

"I've had loads of crashes - when you see it coming you think, 'I'm gonna lose some skin,' or 'I might break a bone, here' but in that one I thought, 'I'm going to die!'

"I had a double puncture on a decent and was chasing back from that, I was just off the back of the convoy, no stress, when i went into this left hander and the bike started to do a 'high sider' on me, I could see I was running out of road and I braked as hard as I could.

"I was doing maybe 20 mph when I went over the edge, it was a 10 metre drop but I flipped over in mid air and my back wheel hit the tree, first.

"I was amazed I'd survived, my wheels were totalled but I didn't have a mark on me.

"The doctor checked me out, but by that time I was 15 minutes down; I got back on the bike but the shock kicked in, I felt dizzy and light headed - I had to climb off.

"After a while in the car I was fine, but at the time you don't know what you might have done to yourself - I was just lucky to walk away from that!"

How do you rate the French adventure?

"It was very worthwhile, to tell the truth I hadn't really realised how cool this sport is - everyone in France is just so into bike racing.

"There were folks stopping us in the street and coming up to us with Plowman post cards to sign - Evan even had to sign DFL cards.

"I just wish I'd come over when I was younger - I'm so glad to have this opportunity."

The Endura lads are having to get used to signing autographs.

What about the reality of a UK programme?

"It's not so bad, we have the Tour Series crits to look forward to and the Premiers are good races.

"We're quiet for two weeks then we have The Reservoir followed by Doon Haem - we're back to France for the Tro Bro Leon, Finisterre - and then it's the Rutland before the Tour Series and Premiers get properly underway.

"It's as good a year as any for us to win that crit series!"

Is there room for the track?

"Rob Hayles has been in the same position - riding for a road team but having track commitments - so he's sympathetic to the cause; the crits are just about finished by the end of June, remember."

The full time pro life - is it agreeing with you?

"I'm loving it!

"It's nice to be able to train properly and not have to worry about the stress of another job; my girl friend says that I'm so much more relaxed about things.

"It's great to be doing the right training, eating the right food and getting the rest you need."

Endura have had a great start to the season, mixing it with the top ProTour teams.

The Med in Feb through to The Commonwealth Games in October - a long season.

"I'll have a wee break for a week or so - but not much more.

"I hope to ride the scratch and points on track and the road course is pan flat - it would be good if we could get a Scot up there in the top ten.

"If we just get a wee bit of luck, you never know!"

Indeed, James, indeed.  With thanks to Mr. McCallum for his time and wishing him all the best for season 2010.

Thanks to Kevin Hague and Endura Racing for the pics.

This year, he's off in search of cobbles, riding for a famous name - ASFRA-Flanders, the team started by the late and sadly missed, Frans Assez.

Dan opened his 2010 campaign with a 5th place in the Lierde kermis last week.

Best results of 2009, Dan?

"I had a stage win and second overall in the U6 stage race in Sweden and I got seventh and king of the mountains in the East Yorkshire Premier Calendar - that gave me the confidence to believe that I could win a Premier."

The new incarnation of Magnus's team - Sprocket Pro - offered you a renewal.

"Yes, but I've been thinking about Belgium for a while - I spoke to Magnus and Martin McCrossan about my decision and they've said that there's a place for me, if I want."

Why Belgium?

"When I raced as an amateur in the UK the club I rode for was sponsored by Flanders UK and then at the end of last year me and Russell Hampton decided to spend a month over there riding the pro kermesses.

"I got to talking to the Flanders guys when I was there and we arranged it all over the winter - it's actually the UK Flanders importer who put it together but Frans Assez's son, Ronny (formerly not a bad rider, on his day) is heavily involved.

"I've raced here before, so it's not like I don't know what to expect."

Dan will be back in the UK for a few of the bigger races.

I heard Raleigh offered you a spot.

"Yes and I definitely considered it, my coach is Adrian Timmis; he rode for Raleigh and was keen for me to get involved, but it was down to their programme.

"At that time it looked like it was going to be largely domestic and I wanted to race abroad.

"Flanders have 50 days of racing programmed, plus I can ride as many kermesses as I want.

"If it doesn't work out, I can come home for 2011."

And you're in the placings, already.

"Yes, I was 5th at Lierde from a good field; Tony Bracke (ex-pro and Tour of the Cotswolds winner) won it and Mario Willems (second only to Kermesse King Guy Smet in this form of racing) was riding too.

"I got away early with them, it reformed and I attacked again, those two and a couple of others got across and Bracke managed to get away on a little climb there was on the circuit with about one kilometre to go.

"It was a solid start to the season."

Dan shows off his Flanders machine.

Where are you staying?

"With Andy Griffiths in Oudenaarde, he's a British rider who has lived here for a few years.

"Russell and I stayed with him when we were over, last year.

"The Flanders shop is in Oudenaarde - in fact, it's just across the road! - and there's plenty of racing locally - it's ideal."

How's the programme?

"It's an amateur team so we're not guaranteed spots in the Top Sport races, but Ronny is very well connected - he knows everyone - and I'm pretty sure we'll get wild card invites.

"We have a three day in the Ardennes soon and I'll be riding a race in France in a week or two; but I have a kermesse in the week then two at the weekend."

What's the deal with the team?

"The UK importer has set me up with the bike and I get all my clothing - there's no wage as such, but if you're getting in the placings you can live on that.

"It's not like the UK, where it costs a fortune to enter a race; three euros - In the UK, with entry fees, you're lucky to break even."

How has the weather been?

"It's nice today, we've had a little snow but not too bad; the first race I rode was Gent Staden on the same day as Kuurne -Brussel-Kuurne that was pretty grotty!"

Will you be riding much in the UK?

"I mentioned to the management about The Rutland (the UK answer to Paris-Roubaix, with large sections of farm road).

"They were intrigued and there'll be an ASFRA-Flanders team there.

"I'll come back for selected Premiers - and the National road race of course."

Dan (centre) has another top 10 placing in a kermis this weekend - 8th in Geluwe.

Belge/Blighty - differences?

"It's just so much more aggressive.

"In the UK a race will 'settle down' here, it never does, it's full-on from the gun and there's no neutralised start in kermesses.

"If you can get past the first hour, that's the most savage part - only the strong survive, really.

"There are no easy races, you never 'just get round in the bunch' and at the finish, if there are 30 places they'll sprint for 30th like it was the win.

"They're hungry: they want those euros, and that contract."

A favourite training route for Dan.

Your objective for 2010?

"To come out here and use the opportunity afforded by there being so many races available to get noticed, string results together and get on to a bigger team."

As Stephen Roche says; 'if you're not in it, you can't win it!'  We'll be keeping in touch with Dan regularly (see 'Just one more t'ing sir!' below).  Oudenaarde - there's a great bar there, The Carillion under the clock tower...  [OK Ed, calm down!  Editor]

You can find out more information on the different Flanders framesets, paint and build options, and Jazz Cycletech products, by contacting the importer.

The rear view of Dan's bike. (click for the full image)

That's a nice finish on the carbon. (click for the full image)

With thanks to CyclingNews.nu for the race images.

Just one more t'ing sir!

Watch out for Dan's blog coming soon, right here on VeloResults! Dan will be keeping us up-to-date on his racing progress,  and what's it's like living in 'the heartland'.

Results

13/03/2010- GELUWE (W) 1.12B - ind.reg.wedstr.(100-120 km) Elite z.c./U23
Aantal deelnemers: 96
1.NACHTERGAELE NIELS, NEW HEEBRA-LOMBARDEN, 02:51:30
2. KUYPERS BART, ISOMAX - KENTUCKY CT MIDDELKERKE 00:00:10
3. NAUWYNCK STIJN, NEW HEEBRA-LOMBARDEN
4. DEGRAEVE THOMAS, PASS CYCLISME
5. VANHUFFEL WIM, WORLDOFBIKE.GR
6. GODERIS JELLE, CYCLING TEAM LUTHO
7. VERHELST LOUIS, WIELERGROEP BEVEREN 2000 VZW 00:00:25
8. PATTEN DANIEL, ASFRA RACING TEAM
9. DEVRIENDT TOM, NEW HEEBRA-LOMBARDEN 00:00:35
10. DECLERCQ THIERRY, WIELERTEAM DECOCK-SPORTIVO MOORSELE

07/03/2010- LIERDE (O) 1.12B - ind.reg.wedstr.(100-120 km) Elite z.c./U23
Aantal deelnemers: 93
1. BRACKE TONY - JOHN SAEY CYCLING TEAM 02:53:00
2. CRIEL TOM - C.T. KEUKENS BUYSSE KNESSELARE 00:00:03
3. DE ZUTTER KRISTOF - WIELERSPORTVER. ARTEVELDE VZW GENT
4. WILLEMS MARIO - KINGSNORTH INTERNATIONAL WHEELERS
5. PATTEN DANIEL - ASFRA RACING TEAM
6. PENNE FREDERIK - SDC - ROGELLI CYCLING TEAM 00:00:15
7. VANDAMME DAVY - SDC - ROGELLI CYCLING TEAM 00:00:50
8. CASSIDY MARK - SEAN KELLY TEAM
9. VAN SPEYBROECK BART - WIELERSPORTVER. ARTEVELDE VZW GENT
10. VANLUCHENE STIJN - WC SPORTVRIENDEN - EEKLO

Murcia may have been no cake walk but it had a happy ending for Endura - taking the sprints jersey and numerous top ten finishes.

Evan, no time to shave at Murcia.

Here's what Wick's finest had to say...

You hit the ground running at Murcia, Evan.

"We were in the first break on the first day; Alex Blain was going for the mountains jersey but in the end he took the sprints jersey - which we defended, right through."

Is it fair to say that Murcia was more controlled?

"The weather was much better so everyone wasn't wanting to smash it so much to get it over and done with!

"Once the break of the day went we would cruise for an hour, that just never happened at The Med or Haut Var, it was flat out, all the time."

Better weather, then?

"Every day was dry except the last one, I wore shorts every day - I had leg warmers on every day in France."

Alex defended the Meta Volante jersey from day one 'til the finish.

How do the Murcia parcours compare to France?

"It's pretty lumpy, the climbs aren't as steep but they're long but on the first day maybe the pace wasn't as fierce.

"The second day they smashed it on the climbs though - Jack Bauer made the front group, that day."

Rob Partridge and Ian Wilkinson warm up for the TT.

Wilkinson was going well.

"Yeah, three top tens.

"On the last day, the plan - as well as defending Alex's sprint jersey - was for us to look after Ian in the finale and see if we could get him top three.

"It was a wide, fast run-in, but Sky went early and were swamped which upset our plans - in the sprints it's all down to timing, just going at the right moment."

Jack shows the effort, after a blinding time trial in a borrowed skinsuit.

Jack rode a sound TT.

"Considering he'd never been on a time trial bike until the night before.

"I was out with him to test it the night before and he was blasting along on the flat at 60 kph!

"I was looking forward to riding mine but we didn't have one with us to fit me because of the changes we made to the race line ups.

"They have integrated seat posts so you have to have be the correct size.

"Jack had to wear Ross's skinsuit because he only had his New Zealand champion's one with him - Ross's was way too small for him but it added to his aero-ness. Ross reckons that's the fastest his skinsuit will ever travel!

"I've trained on my TT bike, it's really nice but I think I'd better with small rather than medium.

"The skinsuits are nice, similar to last year but with the Equipe inserts."

Jack catches his minute-man, Oscar Pujol of Cervélo Test Team.

Were Columbia impressive in defence of Rabon?

"At the start of the last stage, Vacansoleil were trying to wrest the sprint jersey from us, but we had two or three marking their danger man.

"Eventually we got Alex in the break, so the pressure was off.

"Columbia collaborated with us when the break went, but they couldn't let it go too far because there was a guy in there at only two minutes down.

"Rabobank were chasing for Graeme Brown and the break came back, but Alex attacked again before the sprint and took it.

"It was good to be working with Columbia - it shows we have a bit of respect there."

Lance?

"He didn't do much, his team always rides in front of him - I think he was just there for the training kilometres.

"Ross was the youngest rider in the race so one day they had him on The Shack bus for a spot with lance on 'Planet Armstrong' which is on Eurosport."  [Have a look at Ross on film here]

Ross gets filmed for 'Planet Armstrong'.

Ross and Lance seem to hit it off.

With hindsight?

"No, I'm pretty happy with how i've come out of those races - I'm feeling good.

"Racing at that level has certainly brought us up; it's done a perfect job for us - and we took more out of Murcia than Sky."

Any dodgy Spanish hotel stories?

"No, we stayed in bungalows on a golf resort - it was good.

"The Shack were there but they stayed in the hotel.

"Gary Beckett (DS) did most of our cooking - it's actually a good way to do things because you can have what you want to eat, when you want."

The reality of the UK programme?

"I'm glad to be home - I was away for a month, so I was ready to get back.

"I did 30 hours a week for four weeks, I have to be happy with that - we have some good races coming up; The Reservoir, Doon Haem and then the Tro Bro Leon and Finisterre in France."

Jack likes his bike.

Who wouldn't like top of the range LOOKs with SRAM Red?

The Commonwealth Games are in October - a long season for you.

"In 2009 I was racing from Majorca right through 'til Australia in the winter - it was the same when I was with DFL, I raced right through to the Tour of Tasmania.

"I'm planning a couple of weeks break in July and I'll begin my serious build up for the Games after that - for the last Games we had a really quiet spell of racing for around three weeks mid-season and that let us recharge our batteries."

And what do you miss most about Scotland, when you're way?

"My fiancee, Annette."  [we knew he'd say that!]

Anything else?

"Haggis!"   [that's better!]

With thanks to Evan for his time and congratulations to Endura on a good showing in Murcia.

James, er, at a party - we hope.

For sure, Vik!

Where are you from in the UK, James?

"Originally from Stoke but we moved to Exeter when I was young.

"I raced in the UK as a junior but mostly mountain bikes; I made the GB Talent Team but in the last few years I’ve only raced a couple of times in the UK."

You went to France?

"Yes, I moved to France and rode for VC St. Lo, UC Castelsarrasin and Tarbes Pyrennes Cyclisme.

"I won a couple of smaller races but at the end of 2008, I started to get top tens in French Cups.

"That got me into the Marco Polo Cycling Team with Leon Van Bon and I rode 2009 for them, there was a lot of travelling - South Africa, Asia, the Ras, Holland, Hainan but it was a great experience."

How did your ride for Qin [pronounced 'queue-in'] come about?

"Leon Van Bon was talking to Eric Vanderaerden - who is DS on the team - for me last year and it just went from there."

It’s a Continental team?

"Yes but the hope is that over the next year or two to go to Pro Continental - but the set up is good as it is, we have three bikes, road, TT and training.

"There’s a team bus and it’s all very well organised; it’s a new team and that usually means it takes a while to get settled but it’s coming together very well.

"Qin is a coffee shop in Brugges, there’s just one at the moment but they’re aiming to spread the chain across Belgium."

James is "doing it": living and racing in Belgium.

Who’s team leader?

"Jan Kuyckx, two seasons ago he was second in Paris-Tours and won a stage at Beseges.

"We have Jeremy Yates (ex world junior champion) too - he’ll be living just down the street from me."

How did le Samyn go?

"It was a nice race, I felt pretty good - it ended in a mass sprint of 70/80 guys.

"It was nice to be back in action - Jens Keukelaire won it but Cofidis did a great job for him, that day."

And West Flanders?

"The first day I missed the split with 8 K to go.

"The second day it went through Brugges - that’s the team’s home town so we made sure we were active and had someone in the break.

"On the third day there was a big cross/tail wind selection coming in to the Kemmel and it split to bits - that’s where my lack of racing told."

James takes in some fuel.

You're right in the mix, so how come we haven't heard of you?

"I was on the Talent Team but then I went to France, plus I don't have a track background.

"And I really only started to go well once I was Under 23 - I asked about U23 Worlds selection last year, but they told me that they really only consider riders that have been on The Plan."

Describe yourself as a rider.

"A climber, but I like punchy little climbs the best - Amstel Gold type climbs."

How's the Qin programme?

"Really good - we ride all the Top Sport Under 27 races in Belgium, Dwars door (we hope), Triptyque des Monts et Chateaux, Brabantse Pijl (we're hopeful of that too), some Spanish races, all the Belgian 1,1 races, the Tour of Belgium and Tour of Britain.

"We have a partnership with the Belgian Federation - some of their riders are with us and that's very helpful."

And how are you enjoying the Flanders lifestyle?

"I'm enjoying it - it's not that different to France.

"You get a few jokes about being English - but bike riders are bike riders.

"We had a team get together at Bencassim for two-and-a-half weeks where we all got to know each other.

"The team has fixed me up with an apartment - so no complaints."

James relaxes with some pals.

Goals?

"I definitely want to ride all of the Top Sport races and get in the top ten in them.

"But my biggest goal is the Tour of Britain, one of the stages goes over my English training roads - that's a big target."

No 'Plan' but a place in a good team with an excellent programme - sounds good to us! With thanks to James; we'll [make that Vik] will be keeping an eye on James this year and hope to talk to him again, soon.

Rab takes 3rd place, as Matthew Kipling salutes the win.

Were you happy with 2009, Rab?

"Not really, I enjoyed my year with Kinesis but I never really had the form that I wanted.

"I think I was over-trained by the time Girvan came around.

"I wanted to go well but I think I did too much. After that there was the Ras and the Tour de Beauce in Canada - I enjoyed those races but I was never really going the way I wanted to be."

Are you still with Kinesis, Rab?

"I’m still with Kinesis but it’s a different structure; it’s called the Kinesis-Morvelo Project.

"Morvelo are a company who are based in Blackpool, they make T-shirts and clothing; it’s cool stuff.

"It’s not a results driven team, at the centre is the team website, none of the riders are full time - we all work and all have a blog on the site.

"It’s about how we live our lives around cycling - there are road, track and off road riders and we all share a passion for the bike."

What’s your programme for 2010?

"I’ll be riding a dual programme, road and mountain bike.

"But I decided back last September that I wanted to focus predominantly on the mountain bike, again.

"My road racing will be to support that; I’ll be riding six of the seven rounds of the Scottish Mountain Bike Series; the British Mountain Bike Series; the Scottish and British Mountain Bike Championships; a couple of races in Turkey and an Alpine stage race.

"Road-wise the biggest race will be the Tour Doon Haem; I’ll be riding on the road for Glasgow Wheelers - that’s part of my arrangement with Kinesis."

Rab, Callum and the rest of the break worked hard.

Tell us about Gifford, please.

"It was the usual circuit (see our course recce from a previous edition), eight laps, and conditions were good - usually there’s wind and that splits the bunch on the climbs.

"We had nine riders there from the 'Wheelers and we decided that we would cover every break.

"I went away on lap two with Matt Kipling (MTS), Callum Wilkinson (Endura Racing) and Michael Nicholson (Dooleys) and we stayed away all day.

"It did look like we might get caught at the end, though - Wheelbase and Leslie Bikes were chasing.

"Every one in the break worked well, no one gave up - but it’s not often that I’m in a position in a road race where I’m sprinting for the win."

Hindsight?

"I was going to attack them late and try and go it solo but the bunch was chasing hard and it was a case that if I broke up the group then maybe they’d be caught and the bunch would chase me down; instead of sprinting for the win, I’d be 20th.

"Then late on, maybe a third of a lap to go, Matt broke a spoke in his front wheel, when that happened we all hesitated - I thought then that maybe I could beat him in the sprint so I didn’t attack.

"He was always the danger man; he’s pretty quick at the end and he won the sprint, Callum was second and I was third with Michael fourth; Davie Lines won the bunch sprint."

And are you still with Scottish Cycling?

"Yes, Glasgow Development Coach, it’s quiet over the winter with the bad weather and shorter days but we’re getting back into the swing now.

"We’ve had a change off coaching culture, we’re going to hit the schools and also help the clubs more with coaching - we’re trying to get more youths racing and raise the level of youth racing."

Goals for 2010 for Rab Wardell?

"When I made the decision, last September, to go back off road, I set myself targets: to win the Scottish Mountain Bike Series and Scottish Mountain Bike Championships; to be in the top ten of the British Mountain Bike Series and to stand on a podium at British level.

"I’m asking a lot of myself, but those are my goals."

Maybe he is asking a lot of himself but ancient Chinese proverb say; ‘Man with no target hit nothing.’ Thanks to Rab and I’ve asked him to keep us clued up on that mountain bike stuff as the season progresses.

For more, why not check out Rab's new team site, and his own blog.

Result

'A' Race

1 86 Matthew Kipling MTS Cycle Sport 02:36:31
2 84 Callum Wilkinson Endura Racing same time
3 34 Rab Wardell Glasgow Wheelers 1 same time
4 10 Michael Nicolson Dooley's Cycles RT 1 3
5 18 David Lines Endura Racing 1 26
6 9 Graham McGarrity Dooley's Cycles RT V1 same time
7 41 Alister Watt Granite City RT V1 same time
8 64 Scott Macrae Team Leslie Bikshop - Right Mov 1 same time
9 56 Eddie Addis Stirling Bike Club 2 same time
10 83 Ross Crook Edinburgh RC same time
11 21 Martin Coopland Falkirk BC 3 same time
12 46 Dillon Byrne Herbalife/Wheelbase Elite same time
13 58 Eddie Cowle Stirling Bike Club 3 same time
14 69 Richard Chapman www.thebicycleworks.com 2 same time
15 77 Liam Hassan V3 same time
16 75 Colin Ash 1 same time
17 59 Calum McLean Stirling Bike Club 2 same time
18 20 Finlay Young Equipe Velo Ecosse / Montpelier J3 same time
19 53 Scott McCrossan Pedal Power RT same time
20 71 David Lindsay www.thebicycleworks.com 3 same time
21 27 Alan Thomson Glasgow Couriers 2 same time
22 2 Calum MacLean Edinburgh RC 3 same time
23 47 Jonny Knox Herbalife/Wheelbase J1 same time
24 5 Mark Skilling Dales RT Scotland 3 same time
25 4 Kenneth Armstrong Ayr Roads CC 3 same time
26 23 Franco Porco Falkirk BC V3 same time
27 50 Andrew Matheson Musselburgh Roads CC V2 same time
28 35 Dougie Young Glasgow Wheelers 2 U23 same time
29 73 Craig Adams 2 same time
30 65 John David McCaffery Team Leslie Bikshop - Right Mov 3 same time
31 8 Stuart MacGregor Dooley's Cycles RT V2 same time
32 68 Alistair Robinson Team Leslie Bikshop - Right Mov 2 same time
33 19 Lewis Oliphant Equipe Velo Ecosse / Montpelier 2 same time
34 6 Greg Brown Dooley's Cycles RT J2 same time
35 32 Keith Smith Glasgow Wheelers 2 same time
36 17 Derek Walker East Kilbride RC 2 same time
37 22 James McPake Falkirk BC 3 same time
38 11 James Smith Dooley's Cycles RT J2 same time
39 49 Damian Smith Herbalife/Wheelbase 2 same time
40 85 James Dunlop Herbalife/Wheelbase same time
41 40 Veli-Matti Raikkonen Granite City RT 2 same time
42 43 Tommy Murray Hawick CC 3 same time
43 3 Ian Norris ActivCycles/Fentimans 2 same time
44 24 Barry Crumlish Glasgow Couriers 3 same time
45 1 Gary Hand Pedal Power RT Elite same time
46 48 Stuart Reid Herbalife/Wheelbase 2 same time
47 26 Jamie Kennedy Glasgow Couriers 2 same time
48 55 Peter Sammon Sandy Wallace Cycles 3 same time
49 62 Matthew Hamilton Team Leslie Bikshop - Right Mov same time
50 52 Niall Aitken Pedal Power RT 2 01:34
51 30 Graeme Neagle Glasgow Wheelers 3 same time
52 60 Graham Mercer Team Icarus V3 01:36
53 14 Peter Murdoch East Kilbride RC 3 01:46
54 72 Alastair McNicol www.thebicycleworks.com 3 U23 02:26
55 13 David Murdoch East Kilbride RC 3 03:08
56 33 Grant Stevenson Glasgow Wheelers 3 08:02

'B' Race

1 30 Craig Dale Edinburgh University Triathlon 4th 01:57:11
2 70 Jack Barrett Stirling Bike Club J/4th 7
3 25 Christopher Underwood Dumfries CC 4th/V40 11
4 77 Martin Ferry same time
5 82 Gerald Grant Falkirk BC 4th same time
6 53 David Thomson Johnstone Wheelers CC 4 same time
7 61 Callum Gough Onimpex RT-BIORACER V50/3rd same time
8 26 Lee Anderson East Kilbride RC 4th same time
9 80 Eileen Roe U23 W same time
10 2 Georges Avraam Edinburgh RC V50/4th same time
11 5 Charlie Billington Edinburgh RC 4 same time
12 55 Keith Johnston Lakeland Cycle Club 4th same time
13 10 Angus Elliott Edinburgh RC 4 same time
14 22 Craig McCulloch City of Edinburgh RC same time
15 3 Andrew Underwood Glasgow Wheelers same time
16 24 John Paterson Dumfries CC 4th same time
17 29 Jamie Maxwell Edinburgh University CC 4 same time
18 74 Brendan Roe Team Leslie Bikshop - Right Mov V50 same time
19 67 Steve Beech Sandy Wallace Cycles V60 same time
20 75 Randle Shenton Team Swift 3 same time
21 43 Craig Holmes Glasgow Nightingale CC 4th same time
22 38 Keith Laird Glasgow Couriers - DB Developme 4 same time
23 59 Mark Murray Moray Firth Cycling Club 4th same time
24 57 Eamonn Staunton Mid Argyll Triathlon Club 4th same time
25 1 Graham Barclay Team Leslie Bikshop - Right Mov V50 same time
26 20 Ian Wallace Edinburgh RC 4 same time
27 7 Phil Deveney Glasgow Nightingale CC 4th same time
28 69 Francis Curran Sandy Wallace Cycles 4 same time
29 64 Jordan Stokes Pedal Power RT J/4th same time
30 63 Barry Duncan Pedal Power RT 4th/V40 same time
31 13 Alex Hale Edinburgh RC 4 23
32 28 Allan Love Edinburgh University CC 4th same time
33 58 Andrew Wylie Mid Argyll Triathlon Club 4th 30
34 79 Cameron Milne 4th same time
35 56 Paul Selfridge Mid Argyll Triathlon Club 4th 01:01
36 14 Alisdair Hall Edinburgh RC 4th 01:04
37 40 Terence McMahon Glasgow Ivy CC 4 01:12
38 19 Huw Thomas Edinburgh RC 01:23
39 68 Daniel Curran Sandy Wallace Cycles 4 same time
40 60 Lindsay Gordon Musselburgh Roads CC 4th 02:33
41 27 Brian McCardle East Kilbride RC 4th 02:42
42 85 John Milligan Dundee Wheelers CC 4th/V 02:51
43 47 Malcolm Paterson Glasgow Nightingale CC 4 04:44
44 73 Wilco Van Wijgerden Stirling Bike Club 4th 06:57
45 42 Scott Glasgow Glasgow Nightingale CC 4 same time
46 36 Michael Paton Falkirk BC 4 09:17
47 72 Owen Philipson Stirling Bike Club 4 same time
48 44 William Logie Glasgow Nightingale CC 4th same time
49 15 Marek Jurasinski Edinburgh RC 4th 09:20
50 46 Duncan McIntyre Glasgow Nightingale CC 4 10:30
51 45 Jacob Lovatt Glasgow Nightingale CC 4 same time
52 51 Michael Graham Hawick CC V50 15:20
53 11 Anne Ewing Edinburgh RC 2nd 16:24
54 71 Kevin Jackson Stirling Bike Club 4 same time
55 76 Allan Duncan 17:00
56 49 David Lang Glasgow Wheelers V60 19:34
57 50 Ally Wight Hardrock cc 20:41
58 81 David Hamill 26:33:00
59 41 Scott Forshaw Glasgow Nightingale CC 4th at 1 Lap

Jim McFarlane.

"Goodie bag!" I'm not used to "freebies"; by the time Dave or Martin and I stumble into the press room at races, all the goodies have gone - but we have the best suntans.

However, when Jim McFarlane mentioned "goodie bag" I was out to Livingston like a ferret.

It seemed like a shame to waste a trip to Endura and not interview the main man. The timing was perfect, Jim was just back from seeing his boys in action at Haut Var.

Was the pro team your decision, Jim?

"It was a joint decision between the directors, Kevin Haig, Pamela Haig and myself."

For the cost of a team, you could have done a lot of glossy advertising.

"In the UK we're market leaders in the mountain bike clothing field.

"But to be competitive against the high end road clothing manufacturers we need a platform, a show case for our new Equipe range which is launched at the end of March.

"We need to show that our road clothing is credible - and of course, there's the product development aspect."

The Endura kit, from the Equipe range, is top quality gear.

Sportivs/Fondos/Marcas must be a big market?

"Equipe is targeting that market, yes.

"It's a big market and one of the reasons that the team races in Europe.

"It all fits in well, we're going to supply Europe direct from Livingston - we're already getting good feedback on our road clothing from France and Spain and we've just started two account managers in France."

Evan Oliphant already has a ton of experience of racing at a high level.

How difficult was it to get partners?

"We had conversations with others but the match with Fisher Outdoor is perfect; they import Look, SRAM and Met helmets.

"The Looks are one of the best frames you can ride - they have a long history.

"With the Zipp wheels and Continental tyres, it would be hard for us to be better equipped."

Rob Partridge messes around.

What are the team's sporting goals?

"To be a credible and successful UK race team; the Med, Haut Var and Murcia are to get them in shape.

"Having said that, we'll be riding more in Europe, hopefully including some French Cups."

The riders check out their new kit at the recent team launch.

Are you happy with the Med and Haut Var performances?

"Yes, but we really did have all our bad luck at once in Haut Var - James McCallum's lucky to be alive after the crash he had!

"Whilst Jack had food poisoning, jet lag and ended up in hospital!

"But we did the race miles, were drawn out, had new experiences - judge us later, on the UK race results."

The Equipe racing overshoe. (click for the large image)

Evan and Ross are waxing lyrical about their clothing - that must be satisfying?

"This year we're doing all the stuff we said we'd do last year - individually numbered kit, trying different fabrics, having the riders fill in feedback questionnaires.

"It looks good and it's very recognisable - it was easy to pick out the guys in the bunch from the car at Haut Var.

"The riders like it and I think we can compete with the likes of Assos and Castelli - we offer functionality and value for money."

Ian Wilkinson, here modelling his custom jersey, has been making top 10's on stages in Murcia.

Have you had any feedback from Endura dealers about the team's exploits?

"Yes, it's working already, our account managers have been getting unprompted feedback from places like Steels and Ribble.

"There's been a lot of activity on the forums, too - positive on the whole."

Jack Bauer kicks back, and he's every right to: 15th in Murcia today, in the same front group as Lance, Luke, Andreas, Roman and Brad.

Jack Bauer, a VeloResults 'discovery' - we think you've won a watch.

"He's a huge talent, a good team player, has a huge engine and he's a nice guy.

"We'll give him all the support we can and hope that we can hold on to him for 2011."

Jack winning the New Zealand Road Champs just a few short weeks ago.

Another watch with Alex Blain!

"Yes, he's very well known and very popular.

"Like Jack, he's a nice guy, it was a relief to see that we've no 'divas' on the team.

"Alex is from Aix and it was strange to see 'Endura' written on the roads.

"He's very well connected and has been instrumental in getting us into French Cups - The Tour of Finistere and Tro Bro Leon."

Have the UCI and BC been OK?

"All of that side sailed along, smoothly.

"There have been no issues but we haven't asked anyone for any favours, either."

Alexandre Blain taking the Meta Volante jersey after stage one of the Tour of Murcia.

Pro Continental in the future?

"It's something we might think about - but let's wait until we get this season in.

"A thing you soon notice when you race at this level is that even the Continental teams are well funded."

2010 will be a success, if . . .

"We're recognised at the end of it as being a credible contender on the UK race scene."

With thanks to Jim for his time - and my jersey; I must get some weight off and I'll need to buy a pair of those Equipe shorts!

Murcia has gone a lot more smoothly for Equipe Endura - we'll be talking to our boy Evan and also new boy James Moss, about their experiences, on Monday.

And this year he's part of Endura Racing's continental adventure; he rode the savage Tour of the Mediterranean, sat out Haut Var but will back behind the oars, ankle chains and all, for the Tour of Murcia.

However, when we spoke to him, he was just back from a three hour coffee run from Nice to Monaco and back - beats the snow, ice, cross winds and F des J stamping on the 53 x 11's.

Ross enjoys the social coffee runs.

The Tour of the Med - a hard way to start your year, Ross.

"It's always a shock to my system when I start the first race of the year, even if it's a small race in Scotland - never mind the Tour of the Med!"

You sat out Haut Var.

"I was a bit under the weather in the Med and my body was down when I came out of it; I think if I'd ridden Haut Var it would have delayed my recovery - I'm really looking forward to riding Murcia."

You rode the Majorca Challenge, last year, how did the Med compare?

"Evan and I both agree that it was much harder here in France - stage one was a 55 kph average.

"In Majorca there were parts where it was savage, but a lot of guys were just there to get training kilometres in - a gruppetto would form when it got really hard and the guys at front would race, whilst the rest would ride in.

"At the Med, everyone was there to race!"

What was the toughest aspect for you?

"The cross winds on stage one, they were blowing at 100 kph plus."

Ross and his Endura teammates haven't had a hard time riding with the ProTour guys.

Have you been accepted by the 'big boys?'

"When I was at Majorca, last year with Plowman Craven, we got a little bit of stick, guys not letting you into the line and such, but here there's no problem, I think it's maybe because Alexandre is on the team and he's a respected pro."

How were the echelons?

"That's the first time I've ridden in serious echelons, you couldn't look up, just cling on to the wheel in front, the problem is that if someone cracks three or four wheels ahead - you've had it.

"The further up the bunch you are, the easier it is; Alexandre Blain is good in those conditions, he's the guy to follow - he's been giving me a few pointers."

You never rode as an amateur in Europe; that might have prepared you for these race?

"The Med was only my second ever international stage race - I had four years on the UK mountain bike academy, I never really had the opportunity to race on the road; it has made life harder."

Any faces in the bunch from your mountain bike days?

"Not really, just Scott Thwaites and Jack Bauer from our team - and Michael Rasmussen, of course, I remember when he was world champion."

Ross in his MTB days.

How are you taking to 'living out of a suitcase' routine?

"It's pretty hectic, with the transfers and hard racing when you get back to the hotel you just want to ly on the bed and sleep - but you can't, you have to be organised, get all of your kit sorted out for the next day or it turns into a nightmare.

"But I'm used to having to be organised from my mountain bike days."

Who's team joker?

"A lot of the guys, but I guess Wilko is the best, he never lets it get to him - you need guys like him around to keep morale up."

Who's on top eating form?

"We're all pretty competitive there, the food appears - then it disappears!"

Ross: It's not impossible to get to ProTour level.

Are you a book/DVD/internet man, at night?

"There's one little room in the hotel where there's wi-fi, so we all cram in there to connect to the internet, but it's all pretty sociable, we take a couple of hours over dinner, chatting away - it's not like we eat then all go back to our rooms.

"After I've been on the internet, I'll watch a DVD on the laptop."

A hard baptism for you - how's the head?

"It's definitely good, Rob Hayles said that he didn't want us on the top of our form for this race; bearing in mind that one of my goals is the Commonwealth Games which take place in October.

"You're sitting in the bunch beside some of the best guys in the world and you can see that a lot of them are suffering too - you know that it's feasible get to their level, it's not impossible.

"Especially when you realise that many of them had the Tour Down Under in their legs."

The Endura team have the best of kit.

Murcia?

"I'm really looking forward to that; Haut Var was very hard so I'm glad that I didn't ride, it's given me a chance to recover from the five hard days I had at the Med.

"Murcia is five days, mixed parcours, hilly and flat with a 20 kilometre time trial.

"But It's a little scary looking at the start sheet - Radio Shack with Lance and Astana with Contador!"

And your aims for 2010?

"There are three main ones - ride the Commonwealth Games in Delhi; do a good ride in the British Under 23 road race championship and defend my Scottish road race title."

The lads prepare for a training run from Nice to Monaco.

With thanks to Ross for his time - get stuck in to Lance, over there in Murcia, boy! We'll be hearing from Endura again, after the Spanish phase of their adventure, good luck guys.

With thanks to Kevin Hague & Endura Racing for the images.