31/10/2020
Over the next twelve days I’m going to tell the story behind each of the images on my 2021 Road Cycling Calendar. Exclusively available from
First up January, and a race that was run for the first time this season, Gran Trittico Lombardo. Slotted between Strade Bianche and Milan San Remo. Run under grey skies the race traversed some of the areas finest Industrial estates, completely uninspired we frantically searched the road book for any glimmer of photographic gold, and like a diamond in the rough we spotted a small climb called Piccolo Stelvio, even with my grasp on the Italian language I knew this was the spot. On arrival at the base of the climb we could see a short series of switchbacks snaking up the hill side, groups of spectators lined the road as we drove to the top. Parking at the summit the weather looked ominous, rain attire was donned and we set off walking down to the hairpins below. As with every location I choose I’m always tormented by indecision, is here better or is there better, what are my colleagues doing am I missing something.
Eventually I settled upon a spot that allowed me to look down on the approaching peloton and get a second shot of them rounding the bend. As per usual it was a case of hurry up and wait, as we waited the sky’s darkened, umbrellas began to be unfolded, spectators began to frantically look for any form of cover, then what can only be described as a biblical rain storm hit, ive never seen as much water fall from the sky in such a short space of time, leading motorbikes struggled to get up the hill as a torrent washed down. With the race approaching the priority in situations like this is to keep equipment dry, water and cameras is not a great combination. At the last second I uncovered the cameras and began shooting, unable to see through the view finder I threw caution to the wind, spraying and praying. Praying I’d get a decent shot and my gear wouldn’t be a complete right off, with over two months still to go on the road dead cameras wouldn’t be ideal.
Hopefully you enjoyed this insight into what goes into getting these shots, if you have any questions please leave them in the comments below.
