TCR START – We were kings

I had hardly slept that night. Images of the race were playing in my head. On the way to Geraardsbergen there was no way to relax either. We arrived at the Transcontinental registration hall with my whole family. Both my parents, my wife and my daughter were with me that day, and followed me through the registration process. It’s funny to see that they appear on the background of several GCN videos.

Entering the sports hall was a very special experience. I’d been following the activities of many participants for years, without ever meeting them. They felt familiar but also virtual. Talking to ultracycling legend Kristof Allegaert was such a moment. He was very down to earth and took the time for a long-time fan like me. We sorted out a solution to attach my frame bag, and he wished me a safe trip, which I’m sure helped! (I don’t believe in God, but I do believe in Kristof Allegaert…)

Registration went smoothly. I passed the insurance and identity check, the bike check, installed a satellite tracker and queued for an official photo by Kinesis UK. After that, I tried to lay down in a corner, but that didn’t work out. The best thing I could do was socialise and enjoy the moment.

Belgian ultracyclist Kelly Vander Haeghen (aka @k_karnemelk) had come over to get something of the TCR atmosphere. My uncle and sister arrived to encourage me, and most family members were probably a bit worried that something would happen to me. That gave the whole moment a solemnous touch.

Meanwhile, the market square of Geraardsbergen filled up with high-viz wearing cyclists. The stress steadily grew and I took my place amid the other participants whom I had talked to: François Laperche, Ryan Le Garrec and Bruno Ferraro. Our last looks said « good luck ». After a few words from the organisers, the countdown and traditional clock sound announced the start of Transcontinental Race n°6. The whole group started moving. A movement that wouldn’t stop for two weeks.

Our first pedal strokes were accompanied by the TCR anthem « Be More Mike », written in memory of adventure cyclist and TCR founder Mike Hall. The song popped up in my head days later and helped me pedal on. « One foot in front of the other now, day after day. »

NEXT DAY >

NEXT DAY >

#tcrno6 #tcrno6cap54 #transcontinental #race #ultracycling #cycling#cyclinglife #cyclingshots #roadcycling #roadslikethese #fromwhereiride