Race Skills Sessions

May 2026.

Two sessions on the Lee Valley road circuit. Building towards the third edition of the London Academy GP on 6th June.

Thinking about racing for the first time? This is where to start. Already racing and want a technical workout? You're welcome too.

Each day will follow the same format.

  • 12:00. Arrival, sign-on, classroom

  • 13:00 to 14:30. On-circuit coaching.

  • 14:30. Q and A’s

  • 15:00. Finish.

This is the second edition of these sessions. Both are different. Session one is bike handling. Close contact. Cornering. Positioning. Group riding. The skills that make you safe and confident in a bunch. Session two is race craft. Pacelines. Surges. Attacking. Bridging. Tactical riding at speed. The knowledge for you to perform well.

Time off the bike either side of the circuit work. The theory behind racing. Race preparation. Routines. What to expect on the start line. Q&A. Everything that helps it all make sense before you pin a number on.

I'd recommend booking onto both.

Led by Saddle Up Matt . Supported by experienced riders from the London Academy Racing Team.

The GP includes a 4th cat race. Perfect if this is your first time lining up.

Spaces are limited.

Booking.

£30 for both sessions. Book

£20 Race Skills Session 1: Handling Book

£20 Race Skills Session 2: Race Craft Book

The practical stuff.

Bring a road bike in good working order. No single speeds, fixed gears, or tri-bars. Bar ends plugged. Helmet. Clipless shoes. Clothing for the weather. Food and drink. Tools and spares. No headphones on the circuit. Let us know at sign-on about any injuries or medical considerations.

Last time.

Same format. August 2025. Around 20 riders per session. Several came back for both. Over half went on to race the London Academy GP.

The hardest part is turning up.

Skills Covered

  • Pre-Session Theory and Classroom

  • Riding confidently in a group

  • Cornering technique at race speed

  • Drafting, group rotations, and through and off

  • Sprinting drills, gearing, and positioning

  • Short race scenarios and practice

  • Post-session feedback and Q&A discussion

Who Can Join?

  • Women aged 16 or older (Under 18s require parental consent)

  • No racing experience required.

  • Ideal for new, returning, or experienced riders

  • Maximum of 20 riders per session.

What to Bring:

  • Road bike (no mudguards or tri-bars; bar ends plugged)

  • Helmet, clipless shoes, suitable clothing

  • Food and drink

  • Tools and spares you usually carry

  • Optional notebook for post-session notes

Other Details:

  • Lee Valley VeloPark, E20 3AB

  • Entrance B, overlooking the velodrome

  • Ramp or stairs next to the car park

  • Free parking up to 4 hours, register at the terminals

  • Lockers available (Padlock Required)

  • Changing rooms, showers, café on site