The second instalment of Andy’s Mallorca 312 adventure
In the second instalment of this blog, Andy will provide his training advice and top 5 tips for cyclists who wish to participate in the Mallorca 312.
Andy’s training advice:
Andy was able to give us first-hand training advice. Firstly, Andy stated that when training for the event, it’s important to choose wisely which one of the three distances you are aiming to do, ensuring that you’re adapting your training plan accordingly.
Secondly, Andy spoke about the importance of doing training rides before the event, especially those where climbs are involved. This will enable you to train on courses that are similar to those at the Mallorca 312 and to replicate the elevation.
Thirdly, Andy spoke about how participants need to build up to race day gradually! The 312 can last up to 13 hours, it is therefore important to increase your distances slowly. In addition, competitors should tailor their rides as to be in their best physical condition on race day.
Finally, Andy’s last piece of advice is to make sure that you inform your training coach (if applicable) that you’re planning to complete the 312. They will then be able to create a training plan accordingly.
Andy’s top 5 tips:
- Ensure that you take lights with you. They are mandatory for the event as it begins very early in the morning. The front light on your bike needs to be strong enough to provide you with excellent visibility as the size of the peloton is extensive.
- Get to the start line early. Whilst each rider has a timing chip, the time of the event begins when the gun goes off. There is a large number of contestants, and it can take over half an hour to get past the start line. This can lead to losing time and cause problems when it comes to making the cut later on!
- Take layers with you. It is important that you can be flexible with the amount of clothing you wear. Andy wore a base layer, a jersey, and a gilet with arm warmers. As the temperature increases throughout the event you can take off items to suit the weather conditions.
- Take your own nutrition suitable to your own dietary requirements. Whilst there is plenty of food and drinks at the stops, Andy found that if you wish to complete one of the longer distances, missing the early feed stations increases the riders’ chance of making the cut.
- When ordering your kit from 312 please be aware that the cut of the jersey is “race fit”. The manufacturers of this year’s jersey were GOBIK and Andy would advise going up a size from your normal comfort fit jersey.
To conclude, Andy highlighted just what a memorable and fantastic week it was. Kilometres were ridden, friends were made, and fun was most certainly had. Clients came for a variety of reasons, but with one common goal: completing one of the distances of the Mallorca 312. Andy confirmed that it was an absolute privilege to be the Sports Travel International representative and he took real pleasure in working with and for such a great bunch of clients. Regardless of the riders’ aspirations, the 312 is an epic event and a bucket list challenge that Andy, alongside many others, will be returning to attempt again.
