Thankfully, the joys of a major sporting event tend to bring out the best in the area, city, citizens and visitors. Unfortunately, they also tend to bring out the worse in the detractors, wether that is protesting about impact, alterations to the their plans, the frustration and inconveinence caused. Cyclesguff has reported on a few sporting events that have brought out the best in Glasgow and the current UCI World Championships have been something to behold. However, it's not just Glasgow putting on the show, other cities and towns have joined the party, hosted events and adding spectacle to the routes. Talking of parties, Fort William was the place to be for the Mountain Biking Downhill World Championships. It's an epic course and always benefits from an amazing crowd. The place erupted when GB riders left the staring gate. The Women's Team GB chance of a podium were looking pretty good, but ended with Louise-Anna Ferguson missing out on a podium finish.
The riders in the initial stages of the Men's category were no doubt wondering when the heavens would open. Not surprisingly, when the it really started to pour, the riders that where occupying the hot seats due to times set earlier in the day certainly stood a chance of a medal. The rain didn't dampen the spirits of the crowd and Fort William favourite Greg Minaar received a huge applause as he set off on his run. What would he have achieved if it wasn't for the rear tyre malfunction? We can only imagine. Then, it really went ballistic! Danny Hart came out of the gate like a man possessed, the crowd erupted as his split times had everyone asking how is he able to cover ground at those speeds, in those conditions and in that time? Well, it is Danny Hart after all. The gasps of despair as he stacked were almost as loud as the cheers when he set off. It would be down to Charlie Hatton to put the crowd into a frenzy. Watching his run on the big screen at the finish line was mesmerising, the skill level and bravery on display was and will remain a talking point for years. For those of us lucky enough to witness his run, it was a very special moment.
Staying with the theme of a rough surface, the UCI Elite Road Race route had come in for criticism, key points being the state of the roads (we've been banging that drum for years!) and the brutality of the city centre circuit. From a spectators perspective, the course was a a 'belter'! The stunning aerial shots of the the landscape, buildings and sculptures would certainly entice a Global audience. Even the protest allowed the chopper camera crew to go on a wee jolly and explore the countryside. Glengoyne Whisky distillery featured and I think Adam Blythe was heard on Eurosport saying that he's been there!
There was a guffers plan in place to meet up on the Crow Rd and then in town. I made it to the Crow Rd and was somewhat surprised at the lack of people at the carpark viewpoint, but was informed of larger crowds on the ascent. The pace of the peloton as they began the descent towards Lennoxtown took the uninitiated by surprise, the resulting draft was probably on a par with the jet wash from the Emirates A380 that was flying over head. Would Pogacar be on a UAE/Emirates plane in Gold later?
Upon arriving in town, blue skies and an amazing atmosphere were enjoyed during a quick walk through Kelvingrove Park to the Guffers rendezvous spot. It was at the end of a climb just before the course entered the splendour of Park Circus.
It wasn't long before the rain decided to remind everyone that it is Glasgow. The sudden downpour added to the excitement of the race, more attacks, nerve racking speeds across slippy surfaces and unforgiving drain covers and it was all to play for. When Van der Poel came down there was a moment of silence. Those watching the live broadcast on their phones were either wishing for him to get up or be caught by the chasing Superstars. What happened next demonstrated the same type of commitment that was witnessed at Fort William. The determination, belief and raw unadulterated talent to get the job down. It was, yet another moment to savour.
Predictions for next year......marketeers will be rejoicing that the Boa does indeed keep the shoe in the foot, but a new product line with the Boa wheel on the crank side of the upper or the tongue area will be footwear of choice for the discerning cyclist that want's to ensure that their shoes are not damaged from a journey doon the road.
There's still a host of events to enjoy, and cyclesguff may even upload another post before the end of the Championships.
Stay upright
