By Lisa Carolin
Sixteen-year-old Connell Alford has no shortage of energy.
The soon-to-be Chelsea High School junior is an accomplished cross-country runner, who won a national bicycle race in July.
Connell competed at the USA cycling track nationals July 27-31 near Allentown, PA. and won the omnium, a combination of four different races where points were awarded for placement in each race. He competed against 15- and 16-year-olds from across the country.
“I really wanted to win this title,” said Connell. “Starting in January, I focused my bike training on this championship race. I think with both my cycling and running training, I was in peak condition coming into this race.”
His Chelsea High School cross country team coach Eric Swager has known Connell for four years.
“The one thing that jumps out is his consistent work ethic,” Swager said. “In any endurance sport, the number one predictor of success is a high consistent training volume. Connell uses his experiences in cross country and track to supplement his aerobic biking base and vice versa.”
Connell’s mom, Jen Alford, says he started racing his bike when he was 10 years old and was motivated by watching the Tour de France.
How does Connell balance his time to include riding, running, academics, and time for himself and his family?
“This definitely can be a challenge for us all,” said Jen Alford. “The program in Chelsea is great in there are always kids running on their own or under Coach Swager’s direction. Connell has been focused more on cycling in the past six months with the upcoming national events. The focus will shift to cross country now. When school starts, he does a great job of getting what work he can done at school, leaving time for a ride in the evening after cross country practice, dinner and homework. He knows academics matter and ultimately will lead him to success post high school.”
Swager says Connell is a tough and resilient competitor.
“Connell is also quite affable,” said Swager. “We love having him as one of the team leaders. Using an auto analogy, he beats other ‘cars’ because his engine is more powerful – plain and simple.”
Jen Alford says Connell is committed and doesn’t miss practice sessions.
“I also think his dual sports training gives him an edge,” she said. “He’s extremely conditioned to ride/run at high level for a long time. The endurance he has from running likely played a big role in his ability to race the four races in one day that made up his championship.”
Connell sees a future for himself in bike racing. He says, “If I can have similar success at nationals next year, that would put me in a position to ride for the USA at the junior world championships.”
