Tour Down Under 2010
An interested observer of the Tour Down Under near Clare
Last month we went to stay with our daughter in Clare. We especially went to see the start of the 2010 Tour Down Under. The first stage of this year’s race started for the first time in the main street of Clare.
On our way to Clare the day before the race start we were amused by the various decorations people living along the route had prepared.
We were particularly amused by the “lady” in the photo above. Looks like she has had a terrible accident on her pink bike. Now she is trying to hitch a ride with one of the official riders in the race.
I wish her luck in that endeavour.
Tour Down Under 2010
Clare Primary School children waiting for the Tour Down Under 2010
The 2010 Tour Down Under Stage 1 started today in Clare in the mid north of South Australia. We took a short drive from my daughter’s home and found a good viewing position in front of the Clare Primary School.
We arrived about an hour early and found a shady spot to set up our folding chairs. A group of children from the school had already organised their spot. Several of the children were encouraging every car, truck and police car to toot as they went past. Several of the police cars obliged with their sirens blaring and their lights flashing.
Police on bicycles ahead of the riders in the 2010 Tour Down Under
The police presence was very obvious. In the half hour before the start of the race, I estimate that at least of a third of the vehicles were police cars, motor bikes or bicycles like those in the photo above. They were needed as the road become increasingly busy as the start of the race approached.
One of the sponsors cars in the 2010 Tour Down Under Clare
An amusing highlight about ten minutes before the riders came through was the procession of sponsors’ cars, each featuring a “rider” on top and each featuring a different jersey. The leading car featured the ochre jersey worn by the race leader.
As the riders passed by I was too busy with my camera capturing the moment to look out for cycling legend Lance Armstrong.
Tour Down Under 2010
Start of Tour Down Under 2010 Clare South Australia
I am currently visiting my daughter in Clare in the mid north of South Australia. This rural town has been abuzz for a few days in preparation for the start of this year’s Tour Down Under cycling race. The first stage started less than an hour ago in the main street of the town.
We positioned ourselves in front of the primary school about two minutes into the race. I figured that this would be a good place to get an uninterrupted view of the riders.
Somewhere in the peleton shown in the photos on this post is the legendary Lance Armstrong, seven times winner of the Tour de France.
Click on the images to enlarge the photos.
More photos will follow in the coming days.
Start of Tour Down Under 2010 Clare South Australia
Start of Tour Down Under 2010 Clare South Australia
River Angus, Strathalbyn, South Australia
2 Comments »3rd November, 2008; Category: Adelaide Hills, Mt Lofty Ranges, Parks and Gardens, South Australia
River Angus, Strathalbyn, South Australia
Strathalbyn is a popular destination with tourists and locals. There are many fine historic buildings to be seen on a gentle stroll around town. Many cafes and specialty shops cater for those who enjoy shopping. Seekers of antiques will find several good outlets catering for their interests.
River Angus, Strathalbyn, South Australia
I have different interests. Yes – I enjoy some of the shops too, especially the interesting second hand bookshop where I try to keep the wallet zipped up in my pocket. I really enjoy having a picnic down by the River Angus. This gently flowing river wends its way through the centre of town. I enjoy having a few relaxing hours in this picturesque park because it enables me to relax while also doing some birding. No exertion needed – the birds come to you.
Picnic area, River Angus, Strathalbyn, South Australia
Historic Strathalbyn, South Australia
Old church in Strathalbyn, South Australia
Last year I spent several weeks working in and around Strathalbyn, South Australia. This historic town south east of Adelaide is about a half hour drive from my home.
I was there to relieve one of the local courier drivers. The deliveries in the town and district rarely took all day, so I had some time around my lunch break to enjoy the beautiful buildings and parks of the town.
Old building in Strathalbyn, South Australia