Majorca Training Camp with Irish Junior Development Squad

Hi guys,

Just an update on my training camp in Majorca with the Irish Junior Development Squad. We were based in Alaró just outside of Palma for the week and the camp focused on road and track. 

After a day of travelling we arrived and unloaded the bikes at Andy Sparks' place where Martyn Irvine, Caroline Ryan, and a few other riders were staying ahead of the World Track Champs. We stayed in a Hostel just up the road which was a typical Majorcan Bed and Breakfast. Here are some of the views from the rooms.

The first day comprised of building bikes in the morning followed by a two hour spin to loosen the legs and track in the evening. This day was the busiest with 11 road bikes to build and 10 track bikes. Most days followed a similar schedule of Breakfast at 8am and out on the road for 10am. Lunch at Cycling Planet at 1:30 and head to the track in Palma for the afternoon.

The roads were wet for the first few days, so we stayed clear of the hills and rode on the flat. It was only on the last two days that we hit the hills, as the weather really picked up. There is nothing like it where I live, 5km climbs at a constant gradient on perfect roads made for great climbing. The long descents where great too with sweeping bends which gave plenty of opportunities to improve descending technique. The scenery was pretty spectacular and I can certainly see why all the pros are out training in Majorca this time of year. I got a real buzz from training on new roads with the lads in some great weather. 

We focused mainly on Team Pursuit on the track. Some of the lads had never ridden track before but everyone picked it up quick and it wasn't long before we were getting stuck into some technical stuff. 

I had a really great time and was nice to get away from the snow and train with a great group, it was a real laugh. I'm in Ireland next weekend for the next training camp so will catch up with everyone again then. Thanks to Brian Nugent, Frank O'Leary, and Martin O'Loughlin for supporting us over the week. 

Until next time,

James

@jamesjosephking