We had seen the forecasts of lots of wind and rain for the start day but had no idea that it was going to be as bad as it was.  The worst wind for over two years with the biggest gust coming in Holyhead, not far from Liverpool, recorded at 98 mph.  

Even then, the final decision was not made until what seemed like moments from the start.  The race start was postponed for 24 hours. 

I have never experienced such a fluctuation of emotion.  The morning started out with sheer panic and complete apprehension, which was followed by resignation that the next few days would not be much fun mixed with a feeling of relief that we would at least be on our way.  

Then the start was postponed - immediately followed by a wave of relief and elation that I would have time to spend with family and friends.  The frustration crept in later in the day as the realisation that the agony of saying goodbye was simply postponed for a short time.

Overall our delay has been a good thing for me.  It has given me the chance to relax following a crazy month of preparations and spend some valuable time with Rachel, my parents and brother, Sara (my aunt) and Rebecca (my goddaughter) and other friends, fans and groupies.  And one more night in a comfortable bed can't be sniffed at!

Below are some photos of my final weekend in Liverpool."