News & Features

This week we catch up with Lynne Scofield, the Rockingham Forest Wheelers rider from Northamptonshire. She tells us about how she got into time trialling, what she likes and dislikes, and what her plans are for 2026.

How long have you been competing in time trials?

About five years – I did my first time trial in April 2021. It was just a little series of five-mile events.

What got you into time trialling?

My other half races, so I was going along to all the events with him. I’d started racing cyclo-cross and thought I’d add time trials in the summer to keep up and improve my fitness. I didn’t realise how much I’d end up loving it!

What do you like about time trialling?

I love everything about it, it’s so addictive - I did 69 events last year! Even though there are other people in the events, I mostly focus on myself and how my own ride has gone.

I’ve had some big improvements in my times this year, which really helps spur me on. I also love that you start to recognise the same faces — I’m a bit of a people-watcher, so I notice riders from other events, and eventually you just start chatting. We’ve met some really lovely people that way.

What do you dislike about time trialling?

When it rains on the start line! Cars passing too closely. Events being cancelled because of roadworks, especially when it’s too late to enter anything else. Also when there are no photos of me from the race photographer!

What is the furthest you’ve travelled to compete in a time trial?

Wales – about 165 miles each way!

Tell us something about your favourite courses.

I like courses that offer a bit of variety. I really enjoyed the National 50 course in Monmouth because it had both a classic dual carriageway section and a twisty, hilly section.

Tell us something about your least favourite courses.

Anything that’s known for being open and head-windy, and anything too flat. I prefer a bit of undulation to help me along.

How many miles do you ride in an average week?

I don’t get much time to ride during the week, so during the time trialling season most of my mileage comes from racing. It’s usually around 60–100 miles, depending on how many longer events I’ve got that week.

A lot of people think you need loads of fancy kit to start time trialling, but you really don’t. I did my first events on my normal road bike and absolutely loved it — the main thing is just giving it a go.

I’ve also realised this year that if my legs aren’t hurting, I’m not pushing hard enough! Learning the difference between being uncomfortable and being at my limit has really helped me improve.

Looking ahead, I’d love to keep chipping away at my times and maybe take on more longer distances next season. I really enjoy seeing how far I can push myself.