Q&A: Rob Kennison

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Seen working hard at Sweetspot events throughout the year, Rob Kennison has bike racing in his blood …

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Rob, a bit of a sprinter, rides for the Medway Velo Cub (Kent) and has been racing since he was 12. Like so many die hard cycling fans, Rob admits to enjoying Frites and bunch races on the track the most. No surprise that his nickname on Twitter is Flandrian!

Asked about a highlight for 2013, Rob says it was seeing both his sons move up to 2nd cats within a couple of weeks of each other but that sneaking a win at Cyclopark was pretty good for an old fella as well!

“The most fun race of the year was the one I won of course” says Rob but adds “watching the Tour of Britain stage to Haytor was simply stunning.”

Rob doesn’t have a coach, but as a coach himself and with a background in Sports Science, he’s excused as he admits he has a pretty good idea of what he needs to do. “Doesn’t mean I always do it though!” Rob adds.

Talking about his own training, he says “In a good week, I probably manage 12-15 hours but in the height of the racing season, I find it difficult to fit any in at all. My training is a mixture of alone and in a group and I think variety is the key”. Working for the Tour of Britain means I work part time in the winter, then in the build up to the Tour, it’s seven days a week.”

Rob explains that the best thing about racing bikes over the years is that he’s been to some amazing places and met some real friends, all through cycling. On things he’d like to improve, he admits “I’d love to improve my climbing. As a junior I was very strong, but I’ve got too fat now.”

Rob rides a Scott Addict with Campag Super Record and Fulcrum Zeros so something special to be sure. “I’m not geeky at all” he says though. “Campag is tried and trusted, never lets you down. I don’t use deep sections as I don’t think at my standard/speed they make a difference!”

This winter, Rob says “I’ll be riding hard all winter and then hope to maintain some fitness when work ramps up. I train on my old race bike, a Klein with Dura Ace, no mudguards; they always rattle and rub.”

On what is special about our sport, Rob says “It may sound weird but when not riding, I absolutely love being at races and being with bike riders. I gain a great deal of satisfaction from Medway Velo members improving as riders. I also enjoy getting away to Mallorca in the Spring if I get the chance.

Whilst Rob expects to start racing in March, it’s a new Sweetspot event he’s looking forward to in 2014. “I’m really looking forward to the Women’s Tour next year. It will really be a game changer for women’s cycling. Personally, I’m 50 next year so a result in the Crit champs would be a good way to mark the year. Lots of work to do first though!”

All the best to Rob and see you in 2014

 

 

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