JULY 2014

[El Gordo]

I watched the Yorkshire stages on the TV -- particularly the Sunday. Looked like a great experience for the locals, who did the country proud with their enthusiasm. (Though there seemed to be a fair few nutters too -- I'm amazed there weren't more collisions between riders and piss'eads jumping out to try taking a selfie.)

But it was quite a nostalgia trip for me. Huddersfield, Holmfirth and all stages up through Haworth are places I know, or knew, very well. The previous day too, with Leeds and Harrogate. I'm not very knowledgeable about cycling but I love the spectacle, and the way that the aerial cameras allow you to see familiar places in an unfamiliar way. Last year, the Tour de Suisse, which is as massive in these parts as the TdF, went past my workplace and then along Lake Zurich, through the place I live. The TV coverage was incredible. Unfortunately I lost the recording when I changed TV box, but must try to get a copy somewhere.

That (running) race looks totally crazy. Love the casual instructions, that after the cattle-grid you "follow the well defined path under the Half Way and Clogwyn bridges and continue to the summit of Snowdon Mountain." As you do. Well done on entering, never mind finishing. I remember that evening shortly after you'd taken up running when we jogged up Simon's Seat together. You weren't much fitter than me at the time, and I never suspected there was a half-decent competitive fell-runner lurking within. Probably you didn't either. Would be good to catch up if you make to the Moyleman next year. I'll give you a run for your money though, be warned.....