TdF 2

The whole TdF experience was great. It all started with the team presentation on the Friday night. I was their with my sister and we decided that rather than fight the crowds in the middle of Trafalgar square it would be better to wait around the corner and watch the riders coming off the bus. Each team then walked past us, and although there were barriers between us it was still very close. The riders didn't go out of their way to give out their autographs, but managed to get the attention of Tom Boonen, Levi and Frank Schleck and got their signatures on a TdF Meussette (spelling).

The riders then all went inside to prepare for the presentation and we climbed onto a small wall where we could look over the barriers and see the riders very closely. This only lasted for about 3 teams though before the marshals started moaning about "health and safety" and how they would be sued if we fell and broke our legs!! The wall was less than a meter high and about a meter wide. (Brits obviously lack balance!!)

As for the prologue, got there very early 9am, but was worth it because if you were even one row off the fence you couldn't see much. There was a big screen behind us so could keep up to date with the leader board.

The crowd was very much behind the 5 UK riders in the race, but there was also huge support for all the 'big' riders and a huge roar when F.C. blitzed the field

I had put up 2 SA flags on the barriers and the bunch of South African's I was with gave Robbie a huge cheer when he came past and he gave us a quick wave and a smile.

I think though if you want a chance to talk to some of the riders then the stages in France in the smaller towns would be the best bet, especially on the rest day.

All in all it was a magic experience! Now to start saving to see them on the big Alps!!