Our sporting idols up close

Let’s start at the beginning. The run-up to a cycling race is always full of magic moments. The teams gather for signature check, and the riders leave their bicycles at the racks before going on stage. There’s a look of anticipation on their faces, as they await anxiously, hopefully and eagerly what is coming up next.

It is also a magical time for the people gathering around there, who can have a close up view of the contenders, scan the look on their faces, and then tell everyone that their favourites were right under their nose.
For many cycling aces, it all began just like this. One day, when they were kids, their father or grandfather took them out to catch a show they would end up falling in love with.