It’s been three long years since the last outing of our flagship charity challenge, so the mood at Herne Hill Velodrome – the start location for Knight Frank’s Cycle to MIPIM 2022 – was one of jubilation this morning.
As cyclists reunited with fellow cycling and property industry buddies, a distinctly carnival atmosphere prevailed among the last-minute kit and bike faffing. However, the purpose of the challenge – seven days of cycling from London to Cannes, 1,438km away, while fundraising for several incredible charity projects – was not lost on anyone.
Following instructions from event director Chris Clarke, the riders arranged themselves for a warm-up lap around the velodrome track before pairing up and heading out on the road. The first two stages of the day were undertaken by riders from all three teams: Civic Engineers; Lockton; and Vectos.
Today was also about remembering a great friend and supporter of Cycle to MIPIM: Knight Frank’s Will Monk. A number of Will’s colleagues joined the riders for the day – including William Beardmore-Gray, Emma Goodford, Kathryn Cripps, Mark Sutton, Josh Braid and Roy Sorby – along with his wife Claire and two sons. George rode in the peloton while Claire and Archie rode in the lead car, Knight Frank’s hybrid taxi.
For the most part, the weather was kind and stayed dry all day, although the occasional headwind wasn’t welcomed (a headwind is not a cyclist’s friend). As the peloton made its way through the spring countryside, they began to gel together as a group of 90 cyclists, transforming from individuals to a much more tightly knit unit as the day wore on.
The group was treated to morning coffee and a light early lunch at two charming pubs, before arriving at Folkestone for their coach-ready packed lunch (complete with a very welcome small bottle of wine), courtesy of REFUEL sponsors AHMM.
Day one and 120km in the bag – well done to everyone.
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