A Proud Racing Heritage
Essex Roads Cycling Club has a long and distinguished racing history. For well over a century, club members have competed with success across many cycling disciplines, including road racing, time trials, track racing and grasstrack. Generations of Essex Roads riders have represented the club with distinction, and that competitive spirit remains an important part of who we are today.
The club continues to have an active group of racing members competing at local, regional and national level, and we are always keen to encourage more riders to discover the enjoyment and satisfaction that cycle racing can bring.
Whether your ambition is to compete in your first race or to progress through the racing categories, you’ll find experienced members who are happy to offer advice, encouragement and support.
Promoting Racing in Essex
Essex Roads believes that a thriving racing scene depends on clubs working together.
In partnership with our friends at Southend Wheelers Cycling Club, Primo Race Team and London Academy Women’s Team, we recently promoted the Essex Reservoir Road Races. The event featured an exciting open race in the morning followed by a highly successful women’s race in the afternoon, attracting riders from across the region.
The success of the event demonstrated the strength of collaboration and our shared commitment to providing high-quality racing opportunities while encouraging greater participation in competitive cycling.
Track Cycling – Experience the Velodrome
Track cycling is one of the most exhilarating disciplines in the sport. Riding on the smooth, steeply banked boards of a velodrome develops confidence, bike handling skills, speed and fitness in a safe, traffic-free environment.
Essex Roads regularly organises taster sessions at the Lee Valley VeloPark, giving members the opportunity to experience track cycling under the guidance of qualified coaches. These sessions are suitable for riders who have never ridden on a velodrome before as well as those looking to develop their skills.
The sessions provide an excellent introduction to one of cycling’s most exciting disciplines and have inspired many riders to progress into track racing.
Why Race?
Cycle racing is an enjoyable way to challenge yourself and become a stronger cyclist. Training with a clear goal and competing against riders of a similar ability helps improve fitness, bike handling, tactical awareness and confidence.
Racing also builds friendships. You’ll become part of a supportive community that celebrates personal achievement, whether that’s completing your first event, earning a category upgrade or standing on the podium.
Thinking About Giving It a Go?
Many of today’s experienced racers started by asking exactly the same question: “Am I good enough?”
The answer is usually yes. There are racing opportunities for adults and young riders of all abilities, with events ranging from novice-friendly races through to regional and national competition. Our members are always happy to help you understand the different disciplines, choose suitable events and prepare for your first race.
Whether you’re interested in road racing, circuit racing, track cycling, cyclo-cross, gravel racing or time trials, Essex Roads Cycling Club offers a welcoming environment in which to learn, improve and compete.
Join us and become part of the next chapter in Essex Roads’ proud racing history. Email the club coaching team.