London-Surrey Cycle Classic
Dan Craven (Rapha Condor Sharp)
Getting up at 5 a.m. on a Sunday isn’t too bad when there’s an exciting day ahead, and I’d woken up fully by the time my train arrived at Charing Cross.
I met my brother Rob, and Neil from Condor Cycles on the way, and we set off to meet the Rapha Condor Sharp team who were preparing for the race in St. James’ Square.
It was great to meet some of the riders, who were relaxed and friendly, and happy to have their photos taken. A selection of team vehicles, from the massive Sky Team bus, to estate cars, were ranged around the square, and we were able to walk along, and watch teams warming up and making final adjustments to their kit.
Following the riders down to the Mall, we noticed fans in racing gear, mingling with the competitors.
Neil had kindly given us wristbands for the restricted area, but the road crossings had been closed, so we stood near to Buckingham Palace and waited for the start. As the riders streamed past my rather old camera struggled to write the images fast enough.
Unfortunately, there was no proper race coverage, and no screen, so we went for a coffee, while we waited for the return of the riders.
Returning to the Mall to get a good place on the barriers along the finishing straight, we heard from the announcer that Kristian House, (Rapha Condor Sharp), was part of a four man break, and we were delighted when he went on to win The King of the Mountains prize.
As the race helicopter came closer, the crowd was urged to practise hammering on the barriers to show their support. The atmosphere was great, but the shortage of wristbands made the enclosures a little emptier than they could have been. The thumping grew louder as the lead group came round the corner into the Mall. Most of the crowd were cheering for Mark Cavendish, and the Manx Missile didn’t disappoint, as he shot ahead in the bunch sprint for the line. Cav later pointed out that things may be different in the Olympic race, which will cover a much longer distance, and will include nine ascents of Box Hill instead of two.
We returned to the square, where the riders were relaxing on camping chairs in the sun. Again they were willing to have photos taken, and chat with fans. With Kristian’s KOM win and high placings for Andy Tennant (10th) and Dan Craven (12th), it was a good day for the team.
I had a great time, and look forward to next year’s race.
You can see more of my photos from the race on the BT Storytellers website