Question time again, this time with under 23 rider Ellen Barker who’s best result in 2018 was 7th in the National Road Championships (junior Women)
Q&A: Ellen Barker (Team On Form, U23)
VeloUK: How did you get into the sport of cycling?
Ellen: I had sold all my horses because I had exams and they were too much work, so I needed a new way of exercising so my parents bought me a bike.
VeloUK: Full time rider, student or working?
Ellen: I am a full time rider. I have just finished A-Levels and I have a part time job in a restaurant as a waitress
VeloUK: Best result for you in 2018?
Ellen: Probably 7th in National champs (junior women)
VeloUK: Best organised/fun race you did in 2018?
Ellen: The Ras Na Mban in Ireland. It was really fun and interesting and also organised very well
VeloUK: Toughest race of 2018?
Ellen: Cicle classic for sure, I found that really tough
VeloUK: Best moment in a race or funniest moment in a race in 2018?
Ellen: Going off the front in the National Scratch Race championship. Because of my lack of track experience, I didn’t really know what I was doing and just thought I would give it a go. I was unsuccessful however.
VeloUK: Do you train alone or have others to help you get through the ride?
Ellen: I am lucky enough to usually train with others, unless I have specific efforts, then I will ride solo.
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VeloUK: In the winter, training on the road or indoors?
Ellen: 100% road! As much as I love my shiny new turbo, sitting in a small room with a pool of sweat below you will never be as good as actually getting out and riding.
VeloUK: How many hours on the bike can you fit in during an average winter training week?
Ellen: I am moving to Mallorca for two months so I am hoping to do a few long weeks, average maybe 14-16
VeloUK: Is there any off the bike training (running/swimming/gym etc)?
Ellen: Yes, recently I’ve been going to the gym twice a week
VeloUK: Do you train with any gadgets (Heart rate/power) or just go on ‘feel’ of the ride?
Ellen: Yes, I train with heart rate and power. However on bad days, I try not to analyse my power too much ;-)
VeloUK: Are you eager to race again or happy to wait for the first to come along in 2019?
Ellen: I am eager to race again but not in this cold weather, I hate ice!
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VeloUK: Are you doing anything different in training this winter than last one?
Ellen: I’m not really doing anything different, just doing more riding and more frequently.
VeloUK: Which races are you looking forward to most in 2019
Ellen: I am looking forward to Lincoln GP, Ras na Mban and to tackle the Cicle classic again.
VeloUK: Favourite pre race meal?
Ellen: Tuna pasta
VeloUK: Favourite race drink?
Ellen: Sis hydro tabs
VeloUK: Best one thing you learned about racing in 2018?
Ellen: Believe in yourself, and have faith in your legs
VeloUK: Favourite professional to watch on tele (male or female)
Ellen: Marianne Vos
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