Has anyone seen my bike? Yorkshire Grit is Victorious

Friday, 12th July 2013

Simon Gueller of The Box Tree Restaurant in Ilkley relished his chance to test his stamina, initiative and strength at one of the world’s most renowned amateur cycle races, L’Etape du Tour in Annecy on Saturday 7th July.

After months of hard training and preparation, Simon Gueller and a Yorkshire team of fellow cycling enthusiasts, arrived in France ready for action. With high spirits, they went to baggage claim and after waiting to collect their all-important bicycles, found in horror that the majority of their bikes were still back in Manchester where it transpired they were to remain for the entire weekend.

Having consulted on the best and safest method to transport their bikes to France, the team were dismayed.  That is dismayed, but not beaten!  The Yorkshire team, which included senior level management of some of the region’s most illustrious companies, and despite the Alps being a popular cycling destination with a major race imminent, they managed to hire bikes in time for the departure early the following morning.  Despite the course being specifically designed to give the competitors a taste of the pain and suffering that tour riders endure, they were not put off, and set off in 37oC heat not knowing if they would make the finish.  Showing true Yorkshire grit all the welcome to Yorkshire team riders finished within the time limit.

Their true Yorkshire grit meant that all participated and completed the 128km race, despite being on unfamiliar (and uncomfortable) bicycles. In hope that their own bikes were safely being stored in the airport back in England, the brave and battered cyclists returned home to retell the heroic tale to friends and family.

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