A new kind of practice
At the latest Yangpyeong balance-bike event, Valentino lined up as the youngest rider, racing alongside older children. It was also his first event on his Rockfish race bike. For our family, this was a useful step in preparing for Okinawa: a chance to experience a race day together and see what we should work on next.
Learning alongside older children
Racing with older riders puts the experience in perspective. They have had more time to grow and practise. We want to give Tino room to learn at his own pace, enjoy riding, and build confidence. Lining up in a busy race environment is valuable practice in itself.
What we will practise next
The race gives us a practical focus for the coming weeks: short start-line practice, looking ahead through corners, and becoming comfortable riding near other children. These are our next practice goals, rather than a claim that one race tells us everything about his riding. We will keep sessions playful and adjust them to his energy and interest.
Preparing for an early race day
The early start was useful preparation for the kind of morning we expect in Okinawa. Our preparation includes more than the bike: getting enough rest, leaving time to eat, checking equipment, and avoiding a rushed arrival. We want the routine around racing to feel familiar, too.
One experience at a time
There was no podium this time, but there was another race-day experience to build on. We are taking these lessons into the next practice session and continuing the Road to Okinawa, one small step at a time. Thank you for following Tino’s journey and encouraging him along the way.