This morning I waved Jamie, Iain and Susie off on the beginning of their round the world bike ride. Their project will “highlight ways we can work together to combat climate change. In particular, they will demonstrate the potential for solar energy to provide a sustainable solution to global energy needs.”

My friend Tom (aka the Hungry Cyclist) joined me. [Tom’s book launch is next Monday evening at 6.30, with free booze offered as a shameless way of bringing in the masses. I’mll be there to buy my copy.]
Both of us were amazed at the paparazzi gathered this morning. The beginnings of our own rides were very low-key events; me pedalling away from Mum and Dad, Tom cycling alone out of New York. We must have sounded like a couple of old men wittering about the old days. But I think it is fantastic how the profile of cycling continues to rise.
Boris Johnson popped along to crack a few gags and wish the team well. He has done a lot for promoting cycling in London.
The superstar of cycle touring, Mark Beaumont, has also massively helped to raise the profile of long-distance riding after starring in an Orange phone advert and a 4-part BBC TV series about his 6-month world record ride round the world. The launch of the book about his ride is at Waterstones in London next Wednesday. I’mll be there to buy a copy of his book as well! He’s off on a new trip soon, commissioned by the BBC. [update: read Mark’s own blog post above]

Whilst writing this blog I have just received a text: Jamie, Iain and Susie have had their first puncture and Iain’s panniers fell off on a roundabout. And they’re not even at Dover yet. Could be an entertaining journey worth following!