Lastnightstony

Mates of Slate

My friend Slate has made a change in his world. He was the Nike client for 7 years and headed up Nike Cycling and Running amongst other things. For him, it is time to shift gears and leave the swoosh behind for new goals in the world of sport. Welcome to Rapha. The highest end of performance cycle clothing, proudly made right here in London. Last night was the presentation of the Rapha Condor Professional Cycling Team.A talented group of riders with a combination of youthful power and savvy experience. Exactly what is needed to be able to throw spears in the heat of battle at the highest level. An unexpected surprise was in store for these guys as well. An invitation to ride the Tour of Britain this summer will be a high point on the calendar of Team Rapha Condor.The cycling community is close knit all over the world. I was blown away how many connections with my own past I was able to make. Having ridden on the streets of San Francisco as a courier for several years created a bridge to all kinds of folks. People who knew friends from different parts of the world, stories of other people who are in town, events shared from ages ago. kind of bizzare really.It’s really nice to see friends from home. Slate is heading back to Portland to represent Rapha North America. Who knows what could lie ahead. That is the best part of it.

With that I was spent. Work hard and play harder has been my experience so far here in London. On my way back to the tube station I rolled by St. Paul’s Cathedral. Absolutely no shortage of incredible architecture here.