Feature: Dom Campbell Q & A

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The first question and answer for February is with second category rider Dom Campbell of the Medway Velo

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Feature: Dom Campbell Q & A

1. When will you start your road season and what will be the first race?
Dom: The season will start in mid-February with the SERRL winter series crits. The first few races will be used to test the legs and get back into the swing of things before the road races kick off at the end of February.

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2. What races will be your targets for 2016 and why?
Dom: I’m looking to have good form and be consistent all year, so not necessarily peaking for one or two events. However, it will be my first year racing some National Bs, so I will always try to be on top form for those. I have the National 10 in the back of my mind, as well, but we’ll see how that goes.

3. How will you spend the time on the bike between now and your first race in training? 
Dom: With work during the week, and a long commute, my training mid-week is confined to the turbo in the kitchen…which my family are great about (although I’m sure it drives them mad sometimes).

The weekends are all about getting outside though… getting the longer, steadier miles in, with specific efforts and strength work thrown in for good measure. Chris McNamara at TrainSharp is coaching me this year, and it’s making a massive difference. I don’t have to think too much about the plan, as I know every session is exactly what I need.

4. What was your favourite Xmas present?
Dom: Lots of good books, clothes and some cycling bits as well. The thing I like most about Christmas though is just being at home, relaxing with good food and friends. I did treat myself to a Stages PM, which is awesome.

5. When it rains, which its doing a lot right now, is it turbo time or wrap up and get wet?
Dom: I always try and get out in the rain – with the right kit its really not a problem. I’ve been really impressed with the Prendas Ciclismo winter jacket and tights.

After being on the turbo all week, it’s nice to get some fresh air, and remind myself what it feels like to be outside. I will only hit the turbo when the weather means I can’t complete the planned session properly. For example, I did a 4 hour turbo session over Christmas after almost being blown off the road by the wind. I don’t mind the turbo, but that’s the max really.

 

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6. If you could do any race in the world including the best ones in the world etc., what would it be and why?
Dom: It would have to be the Giro for me. The climbs and conditions are absolutely brutal, it’s a proper race. It also seems a bit calmer than the Tour, which can seem like a circus at times. I also really like the Tour of the Basque Country, some of those smaller stage races look very tough.

7. What piece of food can you not do without where ever you are on the road during the season!
Dom: Malt loaf. I can easily eat a whole one in minutes.

8. What is your favourite music track when warming up for a race or on the turbo?
Dom: I love a bit of Metallica or Rage Against the Machine to really get in the zone. Sometimes I just put the headphones on with no music, to concentrate on the race ahead with no distractions.

9. If given the option, would you prefer normal brakes or disc brakes on your road bike?
Dom: I have never ridden disc brakes, but I have never felt like I need more brakes on my road bike. So rim brakes all the way. It also means buying a new bike, wheels etc… That’s surely why the UCI are introducing it? It’s all marketing…

10. What’s the spec of your race bike for 2016 and your favourite bits on it? (include a pic or two if you have them!)
Dom: My road bike is a Giant TCR (2008), with 105 11s groupset. I am getting some Corima wheels hand-built by Strada, and cannot wait to ride them! The frame is a bit old now, but still stiff and in good knick. Favourite part (before the wheels arrive) is the Rolls saddle. Bit old school, but all day comfort and retro style. My TT bike is a Planet X Exocet 2, with Ultegra 11s. That bike looks fast standing still.

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