The Ultimate Welsh Sports Venue . . . Caerphilly Mountain Is A Test For The Best In Tour Of Britain

By Owen Morgan

The Principality Stadium, Sophia Gardens, The Racecourse, St Helen’s . . . Wales has a rich mix of modern, atmospheric and historic sporting venues.

But on Sunday, one of the nation’s most unique sporting stages marked a return to the international stage after a decade’s absence.

Some of the world’s top riders experienced the unique challenges and atmosphere generated on arguably our best known cycling route.

It may not have the Principality Stadium’s roof or the Racecourse’s history, but the ascent of Caerphilly Mountain provided the likes of Belgian superstar Wout Van Aert with an experience he’s unlikely to forget in a hurry.

When the Tour of Britain last tackled the infamous climb in 2013, an estimated 10,000 extremely excitable cycling fans lined the mountain road.

Some clad in no more than wrestling masks and ‘budgie smugglers’, others proudly sporting their local cycling club jerseys, spectators cheered, cajoled, clapped and in some cases even pushed their heroes up the mountain.