Race Season 2026 Goals We all know the Ultra Distance Race Season for cy…
Race Season 2026 Goals We all know the Ultra Distance Race Season for cycling is starting soon. I have participated 3 years in it while not much longer on cycling at all. With some acceptable success. Unfortunate 2023 I and no official result because I did not finish RAAM Solo. However, in 2024 I was able to finish it 3rd and 2025 2nd across all age groups. Not too bad for a cyclist 60+ years. I am turning 62 this year and admitting that getting older year by year does not make it easier. What’s my main goal for 2026 season? The main answer is very easy … I want to finish 2026 with zero accidents. And hopefully as little as possible injuries. I have some health issues that I can work around but not avoid since mid 2025 and that’s ok. The second important goal is to show to as many cyclists as possible that age and some health issues do not mean we must stop cycling and/or competing. May not be as many races as I try but the key is to find some level of enjoyment in ultra-distance racing. Ranking (also for me) is secondary. It’s about what we can accomplish and crossing a finish line is amazing. We may have health issues but pacing ourselves a bit differently helps a lot and even with limited budget as many of us including myself have we can do more than many expect. Most races have convenient stores as well as gas stations on the route and it’s manageable to refill our drinking supply and food. I tested it in 2025 with cool success. So, what’s my target in overall ranking. Since I finished two years in top 3 many may expect something similar … If it shows during the year that I can do it, I will fight for it, but I am realistic and will target a respectable top 5 result or close enough to it. There are Facebook posts and some other internet posts when I am reading those I feel like I am more like a beginner cyclist. I fully understand some coaches and some racers need to make a good show and impress the world. I will try to stay away from that. Yes, I will post race reports and details for next month racing. Plan is to be on as many races as possible well knowing it’s counterproductive due to lack of recovery time. Different to top racers I will again (done it in 2023, 2024 and 2025) try to participate in every race category (12 hours, 24 hours, 750-1500 km (466-932 miles) as well as 1500+ km / 3000+ km (932+ miles/1864+ miles). The hardest maybe the 12-hour race but I think I have one to do. My idea is to do one 12-hour race, one or two 24-hour races, a few 500+ mile races and a race over 2000 miles . In addition to the races and direct competition I am working on a few not so important but cool record attempts. That nevertheless will be extremely limited since I prefer competing in real races. In addition, I am working on a new toy that’s not official until I have it here. It’s going to be very cool and hopefully I can make official posts. Everyone out there a very cool and mostly safe season 2026.
