18 May 2018
Alice Chaplin moved to New Zealand with AECOM in 2008. In her day job at Coffey, she's responsible for a business that spans geotechnical, environmental, client side project management and testing services. But outside of work, she’s likely to be found on two wheels, training for a cycling world championship event.
What's your current involvement with cycling?
I am a committed amateur cyclist, predominantly focused on road racing and time trialling. I’m also the ladies’ club captain for my local club, Counties Manukau Cycling, who put on approximately 20 races a year.
What big race are you training for?
I would like to qualify to represent New Zealand again at the UCI Gran Fondo World Championships in Italy in August. I raced in Perth in 2016 and came fifth in my age group. Last year in France sadly I got brought down in a crash, 13km from the finish, whilst in a medal-winning position.
When did you start competing?
After a number of years doing triathlons I realised my swim was sub-average, my run was improving and my cycling was extremely strong. I’d done a number of mass-participation cycle events over the years; however, a couple of years ago I decided to give road racing a serious go. It was a great decision and I’ve been really surprised how successful I’ve been.
What result has meant the most to you and why?
Winning the New Zealand road racing national title for my age group in 2016. I attacked the field halfway into the race, and rode solo for 30km to win. I put everything and more into holding off the field. The next day I got on a plane to the UK to spend the last two weeks of his life with a terminally ill family member. He called himself my “number one fan” and I won the title for him.
To be a successful racer you need to choose a good race strategy then quickly make changes as the race develops.
How do you juggle training with work?
The volume and intensity of training depends on the time of year and the event I’m training for. Typically I train 10 to 15 hours a week. Each week I carefully consider my work commitments and generally fit my training around work, training at least once a day, six days a week (Monday is a rest day). On Tuesday and Thursday mornings it is gym work for strength conditioning and rehab on my shoulder. I will wind train or go out on the road on the other mornings and in the evenings, work permitting. It is always a juggling act as work must come first. I also ride to work when I can.
Beyond the physical challenge of racing, what key personality traits help you achieve success?
Teamwork in cycling, just like engineering, is really important. To be a successful racer you need to choose a good race strategy then quickly make changes as the race develops. I have a good ability to read the course and then make snap, split-second decisions in the race. I don’t let the pressure of racing get to me, it’s my hobby and I’m there to enjoy myself. I think a key part of my success is when I commit to a goal I can be doggedly determined and refuse to give up.
