First ride of the season in the 171.7km Castellón Grand Prix – Ruta de la Cerámica.

2,500m elevation in total, probably more suited to the climbers but not a bad start to the year.

Didn’t really know what to expect and knew coming into today it was always going to be 50-50 whether I’d make it over the climbs with the best.

The main climb wasn’t that long either but it was just the blistering pace the fastest guys went up it was to be expected.

Not worried how I went over it though. The form is good, the legs are good, which is always a nice sign as ye know yerselves coming into the season. Always difficult to gauge where you’re at before getting stuck in.

The race itself kinda played out like most pro races really. Big teams controlled it and we were in on that. We took up position early on 2nd wheel, and because there was only one long climb that was ridden hard, it wasn't the most “exciting” of races. Having said that, the finish livened up a bit with a few more twists. Hard.

Maybe later on in the season, I might have gotten over the climb but at the minute, just wasn’t to be.

So, I’ve answered a few questions that were in the back of my mind anyway. And the stuff we’ve been working on in pre-season feels good. With that bit of sharpness I think the upcoming Tour de la Provence will give me a few more opportunities.

For now though, it’s just knuckle down, keep the head down, stay focused, stay in camp for another while, get the work done and on to the next one.