I have recently read Mary Webb’s The
House in Dormer Forest. Many people dislike this book, I was fascinated by
it. I am sure that last summer I cycled through the locations that inspired it,
I know the deeply wooded valleys where families could be lost for generations -
living by the own obscure rules and the country churches that have changed
little since Norman times. This is what inspires my cycling, I couldn’t just
pass time by watching the computer count the miles. That is what I love about
watching cycling in Europe, even the most basic of club competitions take place
on the open road and visit places along the route. I did attempt racing in the
UK, both as a BC rider and in the Veterans league. Most UK racing takes place
on uninspiring circuits – one hour plus 10 laps. Not for me, I like to go
somewhere. Hence why I tour and ride Audax. It’s the thrill of
reaching a far-flung place and riding home again that I find exciting.
Bunch sprint in Roquetas De Mar
Reach for the finish. Italian Matteo Moschetti
takes first place.
The English Disease
Time Trials are referred to as the English Disease
in Europe, but really it is the circuit race. Events have been forced down this
route due to lack of cooperation from the authorities and several loud
internet-based critics. The Clasica de Almeria may have only been one of
hundreds of races held across Europe each weekend, but local town halls see
such races as a way of promoting their town with free TV coverage and therefore
ensure that every facility is made available to organisers. Cafes, bars, and
restaurants saw a welcome boost to Sunday trading. Local people enjoy a brief
touch of glamour as team convoys and staff descend on small sleeping towns. In
the UK, councils see street closures as a hindrance rather that a potential for
trade, and as for the police – don’t even go there. The UK really has become a
petty-minded country of shop keepers.