Sprint school kicks off in Newport

• Monday, 23 March 2009
• Cycling Weekly
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The new series of DHL Sprint School got off to a strong start, with over 130 stars of the future taking part over two events in Newport Velodrome.

The third season kicked off on March 6 and continued with the second school on March 13. For those lucky enough to attend, they were well worth missing two regular school days! DHL Sprint School uses a unique on-track coaching approach, with star riders getting on the track, leading sessions, providing close-quarter support and boosting confidence for those less-experienced riders.

Over the first two sessions, there have been four star riders on hand to provide their expertise and guidance to the DHL Sprint School kids. Helen Scott, Pete Mitchell and Christian Lyte are all part of the Olympic Academy Program, whilst Becky James is on the Olympic Development Program; a feat that many of the current Sprint School riders will want to emulate.

“I thoroughly enjoyed the DHL sprint school and trying to help some of the less experienced riders in particular with their skills and knowledge both on the track and in match sprints. It was amazing to watch how quickly the young riders progressed throughout the day and hopefully I will be able to participate in the DHL Sprint School again in the future,” said Pete Mitchell.

Tim Buckle and Geoff Cooke are the fantastic regular coaches at the DHL Sprint School, both of whom are coaches in the current British Cycling setup. They have focused these first two sessions on promoting track awareness and improving acceleration. Using video feedback of themselves and observation of others, Tim Buckle helped the kids to reduce what he refers to as “flappy sprinting” by encouraging the youngsters to keep their arms and their bike straight while putting the power down. This culminated in classic 200 metre time trials in which everyone performed very well.

The Sprint School has also seen riders taking part in off-track activities such as bike maintenance work shops, popular bicycle sumo and tag skills games, and roller sessions. Many of the kids did exceptionally well here as they were relatively new to rollers and the coaches pushed them to their limits.

The Sprint School website now holds details of the sessions completed in previous season three Sprint School events. Head coach, Tim Buckle will be posting regular tips and advice for registered Sprint School riders.

“The first two sessions have been great. The work ethic was great, and top marks for time keeping and listening, which has all ended up in massive improvements shown for all of you,” said Buckle.

The DHL Sprint School will now head to Manchester for the next two dates on 17th and 24th of April. The variation in location ensures that Sprint School riders, who often span from all over the country, have the opportunity to compete in events nearer to them.

For more information on the DHL Sprint School, please visit www.sprintschool.com