MATTIE DODD

Mattie began his cycling career aged 18 months. Speeding on a wooden balance bike and terrifying dog walkers on Wimbledon Common, he has steadily progressed to a confident and capable cyclist aged 17. With a pathological resentment of the renowned training “zone 2”, he’s a rider who gets better as the race gets harder. He relishes high power levels for extended efforts, and the pain it brings to himself and others.

2021/22 Results:

• 16th Kuurne-Brussels-Kuurne UCI Juniors
• 1st Stage 3 Junior Tour of the Mendips (UK National Road Series)
• 4th on GC Junior Tour of the Mendips
• 4th at National Junior Madison Champs
• 15th on GC Junior Tour of Wales (UK National Road Series)
• 2nd at National 10 Mile TT Championships
• 1st at National Closed Circuit TT Championships

Mattie's route: “A Little Bit of Everything”

This is one of my favourite 200km training rides out in the cycling Mecca of Mallorca, starting and finishing at the famous Cafe 1919. Head up over the Col de Femenia and up the back of the island's famous Puig Major before a long descent down the “Pig”, cutting off just before the bottom to continue along some nice little roads to arrive in Port de Soller itself. Follow the breathtaking coastline which includes some great little climbs including the 'Claret'.

Head down towards Palma on the flatter roads for a bit before turning left for a long stretch on a major road. The prevailing breeze usually gives you a great tailwind along, along with the effect of passing cars, helps you to speed along on a beautiful road surface, did someone say chaingang? It’s then a right into Bunyola, a good spot for a mid-ride cafe stop and then up the Col d’Honor.

After a descent on a bit of a rubbish road, there’s a short climb up to Orient followed by a flowing descent. You will then find yourself heading up Coll de sa Batalla, one my favourite climbs. Race down the Femenia and make your way through the the middle of the small, beautiful town of Pollenca. Head towards Alcudia on the coast, slightly downhill and again a likely tailwind again will really pick the average speed up. At Alcudia you're back towards home, with a little loop inland to get to the all important 200km target.

Top tip: end the ride at Cafe 1919 and eat your bodyweight in their superb chicken sandwiches.

VIEW THE STRAVA ROUTE.