There is a moment that belongs to magic, a sort of supernatural state, when the alchemy works its spell and two people, in the end so different, become like one. A total fusion of their spirits and bodies, as if the eyes of the cameraman became the trick of the rider, so that they give us the impression, just for one second, that we are flying in the middle of their paradise. This is when the most beautiful images are captured, as an evidence of this perfect union. Magician of the firs...

Morning has only just broken. Sleep's hold is hard to break. The air is eye-wateringly cold. The time has come to scope out the course. Everyone has their own routine - either be one of the first to go and hide away before the race, or take the time to check out the lie of the land and the key passages. Concentration takes over, smiles are frozen. The first four competitors set off - in less than 10 minutes' time, it will be his turn. Movements are methodical, almost programmed. Protections,...