Val Di Sole actually means Valley of Sun, not Sun Valley Chickens or anything like that, so it’s good that the sun has finally come out, saying that it is getting a bit cloudy so who knows. Elite women have just had their practise, spike tyres still on. Rach A was looking good through the top rocks, so was Floriane Pugin and Tracey Moseley. Sabrina J didn’t look like she was having too much fun through the rocks and roots at the top. The sun maybe out but it’s still as slippery as a fishmongers apron.

The Commencal mob seem quite happy with the rain. Affy flew home last night to get his collar bone fully checked out.

Talking of collar bones, Dave “Bullhead” Wardell has arrived, fresh from laser treatment to his collar bone. (he’s not seen the cartoon yet).

The juniors have just started their practise session, Sam Dale and Josh Bryceland both feeling confident. Sam D was sporting a massive gravel rash caught from some girl in Willingden. I think Miami came 6th at the test race here a while back.

Talking of Miami, mullets seem to be popular here with various people sporting the look. This marshal was dead proud of his bouffant.

The press room buffet thing even includes free booze, I swear there are some guys who don’t even leave the building.

Training for the Elite men, kicks off at 13.00pm local time, I’m going to try and strap a helmet cam to somebody, so stay tuned for the video.

Oh, and I just went to buy that fluffy rat/weasel mascot thing (what you is all trying to guess) and they wanted 20 euros, and it doesn’t even squeak or anything, if I can’t haggle them down to something sensible I’ll have to offer an alternative prize.

I think I could buy a real one for the amount they are selling at.