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Fran Scott - 1 to 101 race update

Fran Scott - 1 to 101 race update

Kinesis Ambassador Fran Scott has recently returned to riding after suffering a serious cycling accident. Her sights were set on building her fitness ahead of taking part in the 1 to 101, a race for women, non-binary and trans riders. 

But, as the race approached, Fran had to make the difficult decision to pull out. In her own words, she explains why and what might be next.

Fran's update

Definitely happy to answer a few questions about my decision to pull out of the race, and yes, once I had made the decision it was a relief. 
I was dot watching and following the race, and I whilst I did feel a little sad that I wasn't there and joining in, I still feel like it was the right decision. Quite glad I missed out on the terrible wet weather at the start of the race!! It looks like it was a great success overall and I was hugely impressed with the winning time- only 3 days to complete it, absolutely incredible. Hopefully I can participate next year. 

Caven O'Hara

Close up of Fran riding a Kinesis Tripster AT through a wooded area.
Fran riding a Tripster on the South Downs in an orange top
Fran riding a Kinesis Tripster AT on the road in the North Downs
Fran riding through a gulley on the North Downs

In answer to your questions. I emailed the race organisers earlier in the year, maybe end of Feb/March time. I had been getting back on my bike and had got up to about 80km, but was experiencing quite bad back, neck and shoulder pain. Even back then I was worried this was going to impact my ability to do the race. Hannah, one of the Lost Dot team, got back to me and said I could defer my entry if needed and I could see how things go and make a decision nearer the time.

Changing my stem, and adjusting the saddle height made quite a big impact on my neck/back/shoulder pain, although it was still an issue on longer rides (150km +). 101 is an ultra race and very physically demanding. Its multiple back to back long rides, extreme fatigue, and I wasn't sure how this was going to be for my injuries. And there's a higher risk of coming off the bike, and injuring myself. This all weighed heavily on my mind.

I also had further follow up for my neck fracture, and although it's showing signs of healing, there is only partial union of the fracture and I'm at increased risk of re-injury. In addition to this I need further follow up for my clavicle fracture and shoulder injury. It has only recently come to light that I do have some permanent nerve damage and might need further imaging and follow up.

So all in all, I decided not to do the race. I don't want to jeopardise my recovery and the progress I've made so far. I would also be absolutely devastated if I injured myself again and couldn't cycle this summer.

It was good to have something to train towards and it definitely got me motivated, and back in the gym and back on my bike, and gave me some focus. I am glad I signed up and got a place, but also glad I've deferred it.

Since deciding not to participate in the race I have slightly eased off my training, however I don't want to lose any fitness as I've worked really hard to get to where I am now. I'm focusing a bit more on core strength, weights and resistance training. Besides cycling outdoors, I'm also enjoying going out running and doing a few higher intensity classes at the gym, keeping things varied.

I'm looking into some other cycling events and races, but haven't got anything penned in the diary just yet. This summer is quite busy for me with non cycling commitments, such as friends hen dos, weddings, big birthday parties, and family events too. However, I'll be looking into getting some cycling in alongside this! Some friends of mine are getting married in Italy in September, so I'm hoping to get some cycling in there! I'm currently weighing up if I have enough time to cycle there or back!