No training at all this weekend, because I've come -- with eldest son -- to the Manchester Velodrome for the latest in the Revolution series of track events. It's not a cheap option for us -- after the train fares and a night in a hotel are added on, but it's a great day out.
It's our first time at a Revolution -- we came to the World Cup here last year -- and we're both really impressed. Twenty-two races over the evening, organised with amazing efficiency -- some events getting under way while the previous one's winner was still circling with the bouquet.
A sell-out, friendly and knowledgeable crowd -- perfect view of the action from anywhere.
And Hugh Porter's commentary struck a good balance for both the diehard fans and the casual visitor -- aided by the excellent scoreboard.
Other random observations:
Britain really is spoilt for choice when it comes to choosing track cyclists for the Olympics - in addition to the big names, a whole new and even faster generation is coming up behind.
A roast-beef roll with gravy and a can of Boddington's -- close to the perfect food combination?
Rob Hayles' gold-plated Dolan is so pimp it's not true.
Disappointment at two people missing -- Chris Hoy, who had to pull out at the last minute because of illness; and Yvonne Hijgenaar, who enlivened the World Cup with her cheeky grin and ENORMOUS thighs.
We're going to have to start plotting a trip to the next one -- because our England and Crystal Palace hero Geoff Thomas is doing an exhibition race.
Royles - the Velodrome bike store -- have one of the few remaining stocks of GP3000's -- my favourite training and all-round tyre. Only yellow ones left -- but I stocked up anyway.
If you're staying -- the Holiday Inn in Central Park is walking distance. And avoids the queue for taxis at the 24-hour Asda, which got a bit "Shameless" for my liking last time we were here.
Brian has started his training for London-Paris in earnest - keeping a log and everything. I need to get serious.
