Commitment

"Nerves before a race? Don’t let them stop you from giving it a go! I came from a triathlon background and didn’t know much about road racing etiquette, which made me nervous at first. I had no clue about drafting! My first race at Aoraki Mt Cook taught me quickly, and after a few races, I found my rhythm. My male friends from North Canterbury pushed me to give road racing a try, and I kept learning on the job. Racing has taken me all over—Aussie, Europe, and beyond. If you're nervous, just stay aware and keep your distance from wobbly or surging riders. It’s all part of the thrill. And if things get too tense, just drop a turn and buy us a beer post-race. Haha!"

I wasn’t very familiar with bunch riding and had never done a cycle race or handicap before—I was worried I’d be too slow and get left behind. And guess what? I was… haha! But I kept coming back. I’d started taking triathlon more seriously and wanted to improve my cycling after coming from a running background. With consistency, I began seeing real improvements, not just in fitness but in my overall confidence on the bike. Each race at Leeston felt like a step forward. The sense of achievement and being part of the cycling community has been incredible. The first race is always the hardest, but if you keep showing up, you’ll begin to enjoy it more every time.

I was super nervous before my first Leeston race, especially since I thought I wouldn’t be good enough. It was the fear of the unknown. What put my fears to rest immediately was seeing how many ladies were there—outnumbering the men for a change! I had been worried about being on my own, but it turned out that many of the women were first-timers too, and everyone was so supportive. The adrenaline rush of group racing is like nothing else—it pushes you to go deeper than you think you can. There are grades for every ability, so if you’re wondering whether you’re good enough—trust me, you are!

Oh my word—did I have worries before my first race? Absolutely! I had no idea how to race, didn’t know what bunch riding was like, and I was sure I'd struggle to keep up. I had such bad butterflies, but it turned out to be one of the best cycling experiences of my life! I was immediately welcomed, and people gave me helpful comments throughout the race. Yes, I got dropped heaps in my first season, but each time I held on a bit longer, and I kept coming back for more. If you’re nervous, just come along and tell people it’s your first time—everyone is welcoming, and before long, you’ll be looking forward to that sprint at the end just like I do!

 "I worried about my first race—would I be strong enough to stay with the group? But what surprised me the most was how safe it felt. My cycling buddies always looked out for me, and even if someone dropped off the group, they’d be there to support and encourage me. The more I raced, the stronger I became, both physically and mentally. It’s not just about pushing yourself—it's about racing in a group where everyone has your back. I even managed a sprint to a top 10 finish! If you're thinking of giving it a go, don't worry—there are groups for all strengths, and the racers are always looking out for each other." 😊

“I first went to Leeston racing when we moved down to chch (i was 13). Ever since then, my family has loved the racing, and we went every week. It's hard, honest and fun. Everything I really enjoy about racing! The other riders there (known as the boatshed crew) have been extremely helpful in guiding and training with me over the years. .”

“Leeston racing has been super good for my sprint tactics when you are already tired from a hard 20 minute race. It’s also helped me heaps when coming down to sprinting off tired legs because it’s like doing a 20 minute test with a max effort at the end. It’s always a good test on how my fitness is before big races and has helped me with becoming the rider I am today..”

Came for Leeston Classic, stayed for the intensity of Thursday night races. It's all-out effort here: you push to your limits, in old-fashioned, no-holds-barred racing that truly tests your mettle

Dragged into Leeston racing by friends, I found a place to shatter my limits, setting two 20min power PBs this year. It's the journey as much as the race – riding out and back, bonding with pack mates, and sharing stories. In Leeston, it's all positive, all about exceeding expectations.

Since 2005, Leeston racing has shown me the unique challenge each race brings, even on the same circuit. It's about learning to hang on, with the promise that it might get easier. The success of Leeston lies in the diverse mix of people united by a love for cycling, each bringing their passion to the forefront. The consensus? It's hard, but incredibly rewarding

Initially daunted by the distance from Christchurch, I embraced Leeston racing for its fitness-building opportunities. I've learned that getting dropped isn't failure, but a step towards greater fitness, pushing me to my limits. It's Alex's passion and the unwavering support of volunteers that make Leeston unique, fostering a positive environment filled with social rides and friendly competition

Shaun Cassidy's recommendation led me to Leeston racing, where I've discovered an incredible team spirit and fast-paced tactics. Its success stems from passionate members and professional organisation, attracting high-caliber riders. The buzzwords here are 'organised,' 'fast,' and 'the club to be in' – a true testament to Leeston's racing culture.

Drawn to Leeston for more racing thrills, I've come to appreciate its unique terrain, despite its flatness. The timing of the races, perfectly aligned with the year, makes it a success. The word on everyone's lips? 'Fast.' Leeston is where speed meets opportunity.

Following my coach's advice to race more regularly, Leeston's Thursday night races fit perfectly into my busy life. It's taught me to hold a wheel in fast-paced races and use my energy wisely. What makes Leeston special is not just the racing, but also the rides to and from the venue, making summer evenings memorable. I've made numerous friends, and the common sentiment is clear: Leeston racing is fast, honest, and the only racing of its kind