Dandelion 100

 

The band plays on. As a misty morning turns moist. And umbrellas are deployed, on the St Peter Port waterfront.

The drizzle puts a dampener, on hopes of record times, for the hillclimb competitors. "We haven't had a dry hill yet this season," grimaces one, wryly. Before donning his helmet, with a predatory smile.

The race is run over the steep, wooded, switchbacks of the Val des Terres. The coast road, south out of town. Which has been closed to traffic, for the event.

The bikers swiftly take refuge beneath the gazebos of the pit lane. Taking their machines with them. Muffling the tyres with electrically heated 'warmers,' to maintain temperature and maximise grip.

Drivers of the single seaters tour in (as Murray Walker used to say) from a timed run. Hopping smartly, from their steeds, in search of a solid roof above their heads.