Norbury’s Germain Burton says rubbing shoulders with some of the best cyclists on the planet at this year’s Prudential RideLondon could help propel him to future success.
Prudential RideLondon is a two-day festival of cycling that culminates in the annual Surrey Classic, which sees elite riders duke it out around the closed streets of the capital.
For 20-year-old Burton and his Great Britain Cycling Team it was a chance to go up against the likes of Mark Cavendish, Sir Bradley Wiggins and Philippe Gilbert on Sunday.
Burton eventually finished 104th with teammate Scott Davies the highest placed member of the group in 52nd.
And the youngster says the opportunity to pit his wits against the big boys is something that he believes can help his development no end.
“It’s always a great experience riding at this level – it’s the biggest one day race in Britain, so it was a great experience and day for it,” he said.
“The crowds were brilliant and it was fantastic to start at Horse Guards Parade and finish on The Mall.
“It was a tough day out in Surrey – obviously with the World Tour boys here, it’s a race of attrition.
“Us here at the GB Academy were just looking to see what we could do and Scott Davies made the third group which was a good ride.
“He’s been doing pretty well but we’ve been focusing on track recently and are only two weeks back into road training.
“Races like this are very important for us. Obviously you have the Under-23 races and the domestic races as well to push for wins but racing at this level is a step up.
“Hopefully in future years we can come back here and pull off a result.”
As well as hundreds of pro cyclists, RideLondon also attracts thousands of amateurs who take to the roads in the annual Surrey 100 and FreeCycle events.
And Burton says seeing so many people out on their bikes is hugely encouraging for the sport.
“My old man did the 100 earlier so it was really nice that so many people came down and got on their bikes,” he added.
“Cycling has had a huge boost in recent years and I think events like this just show how big it has become.
“The attitude towards cycling is great and to see so many people lining the route is fantastic.”
Prudential RideLondon is the world’s largest festival of cycling. Prudential is proud to support people’s ambitions. Visit www.pru.co.uk/ambitions
Picture courtesy of Alex Whitehead/SW Pix, with thanks
