Ollie Knights

What was your reason for wanting to ride the Trafalgar Way?

A real team challenge; with everyone pulling together to beat the 24hrs barrier. I grew up in Cornwall so knew about this piece of our maritime history so loved this link

How would you sum up your ride of the Trafalgar Way to a friend?

Not just another sportive but one that should be on everyone’s bucket list. The team version is accessible to all as you can do as much or as little as you can. Excellent support from the TW team, the best bar none feed stations and a great route of quiet, but direct, B roads

What was your most memorable part of the ride?

Riding the night stages are not to be missed. Really magical especially on a clear night where you are surrounded by stars. Plus is makes the hills easier as you can’t see them coming! Finishing at the Admiralty is very special; not something you can do as a civy and really completes the narrative of the ride

What are your top 3 tips for anyone thinking of riding the Trafalgar Way

1) Buy decent lights. Most are designed to be seen; you’ll need lights to see with. 2) Pick the A Team including;
The clown - who can keep moral up when you are all tired (Paul G), The strategist - who can look at the terrain and pick the right rider for the stage (Jim B), The quartermaster - keeping the van topped up with goodies and readying the next bikes - it’s amazing how much time this saves (Stewart), The Shirehorse - who can just grind out the miles with no complaint (Sam K, Charlie H), The Racing Snake - who can catch the clock if you are getting behind (Kate). 3) Don’t be put off by the long day and night. The format of the team Colossus means that you can get plenty of cat naps and the excitement of the event will keep you alert and riding like a champion

What are your top bits of equipment or kit you wouldn’t want to ride the Trafalgar Way without?

Waterproof gloves - the event is in Autumn and can be cool. Riding with icy hands is not fun so pull on some cosy winter gloves. Spare socks - there’s nothing more morale boosting than pulling on some fresh socks at the half way stage. Harribo - other Germany jelly sweets are available. They keep the entire British Army on the march so are ideal for this type of event.

What bike (make and model) and chainset / cassette set up did you ride the Trafalgar Way with (if available)?

Planet X Pro Carbon - 11 Speed 11/28 cassette