40 + years ago.

My first international road race.
The Pernod Grand Prix Beaconsfield (109 miles.)
I was fortunate to get a ride as I was listed as 10th reserve.
Weather conditions were grim, early April with rain and wind causing dirt to be washed across the roads and into our eyes in the spray from 80 plus riders including some of the top European International riders.
I instigated an attack to get away and a group of 10 of us worked hard to stay away.
Feeling strong with 2 miles to go I prepared to get away solo only realise that my front tyre was losing air rapidly. I hung on until the rim was bouncing on the tarmac and had to relent and take a spare wheel from the service car and watch the 9 riders disappear into the last mile without me.
I finished 10th 30 seconds behind the 9th rider.
The rider in the centre is Steven Rooks of the Netherlands, mountain classification winner in the Tour de France and stage winner in the same. I am the rider on his left and following him.
Someone sent me this photo on a social media page.