The Etape field set out having just witnessed the wedding of two dedicated cyclists, who were brought together by the sport and the Etape 12 months ago.
Rick Millin and Jo Louden from Guildford in Surrey were married on the start line, before their fellow cyclists and two official witnesses MSP John Swinney and Scottish cycling legend Graeme Obree.
Husband and wife, both riding for Macmillan Cancer Support, then set out in search of good times, with Rick initially planning to leave the new Mrs Millin on the slopes of Schiehallion to seek out a first place finish.
In the end, the couple stayed side by side throughout the 81-mile route after the groom gallantly sacrificed his chances to help his bride.
“We managed to stick together for the entire race,” said Jo shortly after she crossed the finish line. “We had initially intended to split up on the climb but I had a puncture so he very nicely stayed with me and got me back on the road.”
Rick said, “It’s been a wonderful day and I can’t thank everyone enough for the part they’ve played.
“We got together because of cycling and the Etape and when we decided to get married we asked ourselves whether we wanted to pop into a registry office for 20 minutes or make it really special.
“Jo suggested that we tie the knot on the start line and, even though there were just five weeks to go, IMG and Macmillan Cancer Support gave us their support to make it happen.”
As a special treat for the tired but happy couple, the event’s organisers presented them with a cake and a pair of engraved Etape medals, bearing the words “Mr and Mrs Millin, Congratulations on your Wedding Day” on the reverse.
Event director Amy Whitely said, “We were really pleased to be invited to play a part in Rick and Jo’s special day.”
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