The Brompton World Championship 2012 has nearly arrived. It’s a bit of a different cycling race. For instance, there’s a dress code: “sartorial elegance (not fancy dress)”. Further explanation, from the Brompton site:
Back for the fifth time at Blenheim, its seventh showing ever, the Brompton World Championship has retained its midday slot. With nine national championships taking place across the globe, this year is set to be the most international event yet.
Despite its glittering alumni, including the likes of four-time Vuelta a España winner Roberto Herras, and national time trial champions Julia Shaw and Michael Hutchinson, the race doesn’t take itself too seriously, however, there is a strict dress code and prizes for best-dressed; the rules state that “participants must wear a suit jacket, collared shirt and tie. Shorts and three-quarter length trousers may be worn if preferred but sports attire will not be tolerated.” [my emphasis]
Oh, and did I mention it’s on Blenheim Palace grounds? And that there’s a “Marathon” tour through the Cotswolds?
Haven’t you always wanted to cycle through the Cotswolds? I have! There’s a video of the terrain on the Brompton site. (What are those funny-looking cycles the lads are riding, anyway?)
Working hard, here, to get the Brompton events on the domestic agenda for 2013. Mr. Diarist, while thrilled I’ve found a group of fellow nutters enthusiasts, doesn’t seem terribly keen on the idea of flitting across the pond for a few hours’ sport, for some reason.
Oh, there is something called A Festival of Cycling the weekend of 18th and 19th August at Blenheim, but, honestly, what events could compare with the Brompton Treble (the Championship, the Sprint, and the Marathon)?