Orla Chennaoui
@SportsOrla
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Eurosport and TNT presenter, talking & writing sport for a living. Juggling work, travel and 2 kids. Balls may drop. https://t.co/xJcuhLkRUx
Joined March 2009
My heart…not the drama I was expecting tonight 😳🤣.
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Kirsten Faulkner, the first American winner of the women’s road race in 40 years. She only turned pro 4 years ago. Had been a venture capitalist, now she trades in gold🥇
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Tour de France organisers are giving Mark Cavendish his own podium ceremony at the end of today’s stage. Not just any old slot, but between the presentation of the green and yellow jerseys. A beautiful gesture.
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Never has there been such collective disappointment over a Tour race abandonment. From the oh-so-close yesterday, to leaving his final Tour today. What a desperately sad way to say goodbye to this beautiful, brutal race.
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I will never tire of Amsterdam rush hour. A 12km round trip for kids’ hockey practice and this is by far the busiest it gets. No road rage, we alongside each other and chat, and it’s as quick for these distances, if not quicker. You cannot tell me this doesn’t make sense.
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You know what I loved about that Geraint Thomas leadout? That was two of the best in the world racing as little boys again, friends helping each other out, riding for friendship and taking rush to the world stage, making history. I simply do not know of a comparable sport. Poetry.
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Please can we take a moment to celebrate the very act of celebration, to salute the spirit that brings these people to the top of a mountain in pilgrimage. There is simply no sport like this. Nothing hits like this. @ThibautPinot @GroupamaFDJ @LeTour @eurosport @gcntweet
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For every troll who writes nasty, mostly sexist comments to me here for every single day I’m on air, there are a swarm of people who swoop in to show they get it. Thank you to each and every one of you, it truly makes a difference.
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Words can’t do justice, even though we have used many variations over the course of the last hour…Sir Mark Cavendish, history maker, record-holder, confounder of critics once again…simply breathtaking. Thank you for stage 35. We all f*cking loved that.
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A thought on the the Tour de France Femmes and how you can do your bit to grow womens cycling. It’s simple. Watch. Shout about the coverage. Consume news coverage. Feed the algorithms, add to the data. Show the demand is there. This is our time.
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Didn’t know it was a big day? Now you do. @mcewenrobbie @daniellloyd1 @AdamBlythe89 @gcntweet @eurosport @discoveryplusUK
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If you need a lesson in the value of persistence, of tenacity, in the merit of sheer, bloody-minded hard work, allow this race, this stage win, this man to be your teacher. One Tour de France stage is enough to make a rider’s career, 35 is enough to make a legend. Arise Sir Mark.
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It’s not enough. It’ll never be enough. But we got to take Richard with us for Flanders this morning. A huge thanks to an amazingly compassionate team who allowed me to at least try to do this.
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Christophe Laporte didn’t even know he was in the fight for a medal. He sprinted but didn’t know how many riders were up the road. Had no idea he’d won bronze until Valentin told him and Remco confirmed. Crazy.
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So incredibly offensive. I know it’s 2023 but we can still find dictionaries online people…😬
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So, my lovelies, that is it. It is the privilege of my career to sit in this seat, alongside the people I do, with the off-screen team of trojans, sharing this joy, passion and sheer fun with all of you. Thank you for allowing me into your living room for 3 weeks. Next stop TdF❤️
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In what other sport do you step away from the race to go for a whizz in a brassiere? Honestly, I love this sport.
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Just the most horrific news. Gino Mäder has died after his crash yesterday. All my love, all my sympathies, all my condolences to his loved ones and the team. I’m so sorry Giro.
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A few very personal words for anyone who’s bothered. As a woman in sport I point out the times that I feel othered, objectified or belittled for how I choose to represent, but this past month has empowered and liberated more than I could have hoped.
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To everyone who’s shared this historic 3 weeks with us, to everyone who’s cried tears of joy and heartbreak, who’s been buoyed and boosted…to everyone working on our show both in studio and on the ground, and especially to the teams and riders, thank you. 100 times thank you.
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Awww man, I’ve been shortlisted for sports presenter of the year and now I’m full on 😭😭 So proud of all the team at @eurosport @discoveryplusUK @DiscoverySports for seven nominations in all. What. A. Team .🙌🙌🙌.
⭐ The shortlist for the Broadcast Sport Awards 2022 has been announced! ⭐. Congratulations to everyone who has been nominated, we look forward to seeing you all on awards night. See the shortlist in full at: #BSportAwards22
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This is possibly the most magnificent moment of cycling I’ve witnessed. Ever.
La folie des supporters de @BenoitCosnefroy et @AurelienParetP dans Joux Plane 🔥🔥🔥. Le vélo qu’on y aime #TDF2023
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This was one of the most powerful, eloquent, insightful and compassionate interviews I have ever heard after a stage win. Congratulations @matmohoric and thank you for your intelligence.
"Not just for myself, but for 𝙂𝙞𝙣𝙤, and the team.". Incredible interview from Stage 19 winner Matej Mohoric, on finding a way to keep going and get across the line ❤️. @matmohoric | @BHRVictorious | #TdF2023
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The last few days I’ve been criticised (again) for my perceived parenting and the fact I sometimes don’t cover my legs on the telly. Standard. Just a reminder, your opinion is none of my business ❤️
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Christmas cheers, however you toast. If today is one to survive, then you will, I promise. You’ve beaten everything so far. Keep your head down and get through. If you can, take hugs and love where you can and breathe fresh air into your lungs. And chocolate. Always chocolate ❤️
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Today the Tour de France is honouring one of the most influential people in my life. One of my dearest friends, my biggest work influence and most constant cheerleader. Dearest Richard, my life wouldn’t be what it is today without you. I love you. I miss you. We all do, every day
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Over and out. For now. I cannot thank enough everyone who takes the time to let us know you’re watching these races with us, who gives us support and who is a part of this big, joyous family. It’s an honour every time, and it only gets better. 🙏 ❤️ @eurosport @gcntweet
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Gonna party like it’s the High Alps @AdamBlythe89 @mcewenrobbie @daniellloyd1 @eurosport @discoveryplusUK @gcntweet
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That’s it. Giro, completed. 💕@daniellloyd1 @mcewenrobbie @AdamBlythe89 @gcntweet @eurosport @discoveryplusUK
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This is quite phenomenal. Katie Archibald is world champion once again. I have no idea how, but she is quite simply an exceptional human. For what it’s worth, I am in awe.
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From start to finish, it has been a blast of a three weeks with my second family. I love this race, I love this team, I love every single comment of support and enjoyment that comes our way. It was the @TamauPogi show and it was an honour to be in the supporting cast. @eurosport
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My timeline is RAMMED with womens sport right now and bloody hell does it feel good. We’re getting there people, we’re frickin getting there.
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I’ve said it over on insta, I’ve said it to his face, and I’ll take the chance to say it here too, it has been the privilege of my career to work with this team and I couldn’t have asked for a better colleague, friend and fellow dancer than @daniellloyd1. Thanks for everything x.
As some of you will have read/seen, we recently regained financial and editorial control of PSN (PlaySportsNetwork) from Warner Bros Discovery, which means some changes for me. I could never have imagined when I joined GCN at its inception in 2012 that we'd go from a small
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I just want to start my day in a non-cycling way, and give my huge respect to @BootstrapCook, someone who works every day at helping feed those on the limit. Constantly fighting the cost of living crisis, as well as social media abuse, must be exhausting. A remarkable person 🙌.
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On Monday, our hearts were crushed and the air sucked from our lungs. Words can never do justice. Richard, you were the best of us. You charged from the front. You made shit happen. You were one of the few friends who never, ever let me down. You never let anyone down.
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At the risk of dwelling on the grief of others, and superimposing a bravery that was never invited nor willingly accepted, I’ll cheer all the harder for Katie and Laura in the next few weeks, if only in the hope sport can give them solace we all seek in it
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So, next chapter! I am beyond thrilled to announce that I’ll be fronting @Eurosport_UK cycling coverage this year, joining Sir Bradley Wiggins as the new kids on the block. It’s an honour to join the current team of amazing talent on the Home of Cycling. First up, Giro d’Italia.
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The very last words any bike racing fan would have wanted to hear.
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Sunday morning cycling through the centre of Amsterdam with the 6-year-old. 2-year-old in the bucket on the front of my bike. Just thought I’d share.
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And with that, my 18th Grand Tour with @eurosport is done. I actually can’t believe that number 🤯. A huge thank you to everyone for your ongoing support, love and laughs. We appreciate every kind word and post. Shall we do it all again next year? Ahhh, go on then!
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Our teams in France waking up to this today… 🤔 Remember what Tadej said about hoping for bad weather?
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Happy Bastille Day, tout le monde. Mange tout 😉 @eurosport @gcntweet @mcewenrobbie @AdamBlythe89 @daniellloyd1
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I am so, so sorry for everyone who knew and loved Andre Drege. It is absolutely heartbreaking to lose a rider, and my heart breaks for the life not yet lived. Sending all my sympathies to his family, friends and team coop repsol teammates.
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From the bottom of my heart, the hugest of thank yous to this team of beautiful, dedicated, fun souls, to those in the pics and those not, in Bath, Chiswick and Italy. To everyone who’s watched and interacted, you mean the world. Thank you for making this community what it is🙏
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That was, quite simply, one of my favourite days on the Champs Elysées in my 14 years covering this race. So much to soak in and savour. As we continue with the Femmes, from the men’s race, it is goodbye and thank you. To everyone.
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Boys. Caught in the act. @AdamBlythe89 @daniellloyd1 @mcewenrobbie @eurosport @gcntweet @discoveryplusUK
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I’m often asked about/criticised over posting pics on my upright bike without wearing a helmet. This piece explains why it’s a much more nuanced debate than most people take the time for. If you’re interested, please do read in full. Thanks @rouleur for the space to explore.
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Just me, in my pleated tuxshedo, causally holding a mic to say I am THRILLED to let you know I’m extending my partnership with Eurosport 🎉 I’ll be leading the channel’s cycling coverage once again, and also having fun withother sports, starting with Moto GP. Just a bit excited!
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If I had one wish for everyone for 2024, it would be to ditch the car more and get on your bike. Not for Lycra outings, thats great too but I mean to pop to the shops. To go to work. To head out with friends. This is my ride @TenwaysEBike Here’s a little story about me.
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I’ve only gone and gotten my own Olympic show…😳.So delighted to be a part of this incredible @eurosport team for #Paris2024 and honoured to be hosting the morning show, waking you up to Olympic news, setting up the day ahead, and chatting to medalists, families and more.
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And just like that, my 2021 Breakaway season has come to an end. What a weekend to finish it on. From the bottom of my heart, thank you to everyone for watching us this year. It has been a privilege to hang out in your living rooms/garden sheds/downstairs loos. Thank you. 🙏
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“This isn’t personal, but you’re a failure”. “You seem an intelligent woman, so stop the dancing”. For every baiting tweet I receive there are hundreds, hundreds, of kind ones in return. Don’t believe people are mostly nasty. In my experience, it’s not the case.
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A huge & heartfelt thank you to everyone who’s watched and been so lovely to us all on @Eurosport_UK and @gcntweet over the last 3 weeks. We read every one of your comments, so it’s a relief when most are lovely! We know what a privilege it is to be part of this cycling family❤️.
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Evening rush hour, central Amsterdam. It’s so easy to dismiss bike culture as something that can only work somewhere else. Yes, it takes commitment and political will, but it’s worth it. This works. Imagine each of these people were in one car. Think of the space this frees up.
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So, tell me people, was that a Tour de France worth waiting for?.
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From pulling out of the Tour de Suisse with injuries from a crash, to not being selected to defend his Olympic title, to becoming the first Ecuadorean to win the yellow jersey and now his first Tour de France stage win. What a roller coaster for Richard Carapaz. Pure class.
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Time to teach the boys some French. We’re off to le Tour homeland 🇫🇷 All together now, je m’appelle… @AdamBlythe89 @mcewenrobbie @daniellloyd1 @eurosport @discoveryplusUK @gcntweet
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The problem with the Tour de France, is the first week is just so bloody boring.
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7 years ago I was on anti-depressants. That sounds like the start of a horrible story. It’s not, it’s just a part of mine. Mental health issues are so much more common than you think when you’re going through them. You are much less alone than you think ❤️ #WorldMentalHealthDay.
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You know what I’m loving? My timeline filled with debate on the women’s cycling road race. Regardless of the result, that’s what I want, right there.
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This is the 14th time I’ve prepared to cover the Tour de France yet last night I couldn’t get to sleep. Christmas never gets boring, does it?.
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I do my job in a way that makes me comfortable, and where my personality can flow. It seems to connect with a lot of people but we’re never all going to agree. I work in an industry of high standards so I know you’ll have excellent coverage of you tune in somewhere else ❤️.
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Non-cycling life for a few weeks, and it’s also rather lovely 🥰
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This should not go unnoticed in the wider world of sport. To become world champion 16 years apart is phenomenal. To do so in a sport as brutal as cycling, by a rider who also bosses and has been world champ in road and track is the stuff of legend. Shout the name, @marianne_vos.
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Wout van Aert cementing his place, as if it was needed, as one of the most exciting and accomplished of the next generation of riders. For Mark Cavendish, the romantic in us may have wanted otherwise, but history doesn’t need it. The best sprinter the race has ever seen.
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I admire all my colleagues, but when I hear Sean Kelly’s dulcet tones, everything feels safe in the world. Do not even think of replying if you don’t agree. I’m not interested and you’re wrong.
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After writing about cycling and mental health in my latest @rouleur column, I got myself out in the Dutch lanes today. We put so many mental, emotional obstacles in the way of simple happiness. Don’t overthink it. Sometimes, it’s better to just do.
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What a winner. What a champion. What a day. @lizziedeignan we salute you. And @marianne_vos and @ElisaLongoB and every single one of you pro riders who have brought us to this day. 🙌🙌🙌.
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This morning my daughter made me email her teacher pictures of yesterday so she could tell the class all about the cyclocross world championships and I swear my heart is going to burst out of my chest.
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Ah bloody hell Rab…literally the only person who would drive through the night with me to go see a burning fire pit. Truly one of life’s beautiful, fun, good souls. I’m so damn sorry. I send all my love to those who loved you. What a loss ❤️
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It’s not easy being an Irish sports fan, but when there’s a win…🙌
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Tell me, is everyone else loving this Vuelta as much as I am? I mean, it is wild, right?.
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It’s been an absolute joy, privilege and a whole lot of fun to be hosting the Tour coverage. Off to get myself ready for the Olympics and another 7 weeks away from home, so budge up on the sofa y’all. I’ll be watching from the other side for the final week. 💛
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GCN has been not only an incredible service for cycling, but exceptional in the world of sports broadcasting. We’ll still be with you on other platforms of course, but to all my GCN colleagues, you’ve been amazing and a credit to the craft. ❤️.
In a few minutes, we'll be broadcasting our last ever live race on GCN+. The men's UCI CX World Cup on the classic Namur course. You'll then have until Tuesday to watch any on demand racing or documentaries before it shuts down. It's been a hell of a ride - I've loved every
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One of the most common questions I get asked about not owning a car. “What do you do when the weather’s bad?” Answer: “We ride” 🤷♀️.@TenwaysEBike #tenwaysmyways
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Our Grand Tour season is over and I want to thank every member of this magnificent crew, including not in these pics, every one of you for supporting, watching and cheering, and the riders and teams who have delivered one of the most wonderful seasons in memory.
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And to the trolls, you’re speaking to an actual person, you’re tagging so that they can read. Just think if you’d be happy with your wife, daughter, sister or friend getting abuse for working hard at their jobs. I am not coming for your children. I’m talking about bike racing.
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Sean Kelly on @Eurosport_UK just now: @Sammmy_Be's mum messaged me before the intermediate sprint, saying she had an easier time in labour than she's having now. The quote of the Tour for me 💚.
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The drive back last night @thejensie “Is the Thames clean enough to swim in?” .Me “Well people do, so…” .Jens at dinner “So I did it, over and back again, with one arm”.“Why did you swim one-armed?”.“I had to keep my phone above my head. If it’s not on Strava, it didn’t happen”.
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After 7yrs at Sky Sports News, and 14 at Sky, I’m braving the big, bad world to try my hand at ventures new. So incredibly grateful to everyone at SSN for being the best bunch in the business, and for giving me the time of my life. Very excited about the future. Watch this space!.
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I didn’t post this for support, more to remind others that how you choose to live your own life is a matter for you to decide, no-one else. The support, however, has been overwhelmingly beautiful and the reason I fundamentally believe in goodness. Thank you.
The last few days I’ve been criticised (again) for my perceived parenting and the fact I sometimes don’t cover my legs on the telly. Standard. Just a reminder, your opinion is none of my business ❤️
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Today I get to celebrate another year of living. As a woman we can be conditioned to fear ageing, to try to deny it in some way. F@ck that, I say. Living is a ruddy privilege that won’t last forever. Enjoy every bit of it that you can. Here’s to every year of getting older.
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Disbelief from @roliveira57 on becoming Olympic Champion. ‘I have never won a race in my life’. Absolutely beautiful. Congratulations to Portugal on a sensational Madison.
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Watch this and tell me this isn’t what cycling is all about. Don’t, by the way. Just rejoice. @Eurosport_UK
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Lovely interview with @GeraintThomas86 and his long-time friend @AdamBlythe89 Just brilliant to hear his thoughts immediately after the stage @eurosport @gcntweet @wbd 1/2
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To the teams at Eurosport and GCN from the studio floor up, thank you for your commitment and passion. To everyone who chooses social media as a platform for support & encouragement, I applaud you. To everyone who wants to just be themselves, do it. You’re the only one who can 🙏.
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Ahhh it’s good to get the band back together. Giro d’Italia live now.
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Every single lap, amidst the throngs on Montrose Street, I’ve been able to spot my brother and his daughters and I swear it’s made me as happy as the racing itself.
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Happy days in Oudenaarde with him, pulling his serious/cool face. Every single time you skipped* with joy though, didn’t you? Today will be a beautiful day of bike racing because it always is and will have to be so. *I hear your protests. Don’t worry. Everyone knows it was manly.
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