Considering the constant power struggle that takes place within the coalition government, prime minister David Cameron could learn a thing or two about team work.
- David Cameron talks tactics with Ed Clancy and Dave Brailsford
And British Cycling would be a good place to start. After all, Britain’s cyclists returned from the 2008 Beijing Olympic Games with 14 medals, while a near-perfect performance at the World Championships earlier this month delivered Mark Cavendish to gold.
Just as well, then, that the PM, who is in Manchester for the Conservative Party Conference, spent the morning seeing first-hand how British Cycling and its athletes are preparing for the London 2012 Olympic and Paralympic Games.
Cameron was greeted by British Cycling president Brian Cookson, who this weekend confirmed Britain would bid to host the World Road Race Championships, chief executive Ian Drake and performance director Dave Brailsford.
Ed Clancy and Paul Manning, half of Team GB’s victorious team pursuit quartet in Beijing, then talked Cameron through the team’s training programme at the velodrome, before the prime minister was taken to the adjacent BMX track to watch Shanaze Reade in action.
“I have been very impressed by the setup here in Manchester, both in terms of the facilities which are second to none, but also the sense of professionalism and winning mentality you see in the coaches and riders alike,” said Cameron.
I hope you were taking notes, David.
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