Photographer Reflects on 20 Years of Tour de France

Pete Goding, a seasoned photographer, has been capturing the essence of the Tour de France for two decades, having started his journey in the early 2000s when Lance Armstrong's reputation was beginning to unravel. Goding's first experience with the Tour de France was a memorable one, as he photographed Armstrong circling the Champs-Élysées with a film SLR, unaware that the era of film cameras and Armstrong's untarnished reputation were both nearing their end. Now, after twenty years of documenting the world's most prestigious cycling event, Goding reflects on his experiences, providing a unique insight into the world of professional cycling.

As Goding sits in a Parisian cafe, sipping a café crème and observing the city's tranquil atmosphere, he is reminded that the Tour de France is about to disrupt the peaceful Sunday morning scene. The streets, currently filled with laughing couples, pampered pets, and waiters attending to tourists, will soon be transformed into a bustling thoroughfare as the world's top cyclists speed through the city. Despite the impending chaos, the atmosphere remains laid-back, with the locals and tourists alike going about their day, oblivious to the excitement that is about to unfold. Goding's account offers a fascinating glimpse into the contrast between the ordinary and the extraordinary, as the Tour de France prepares to take center stage.

As the Tour de France gets ready to conclude in Paris, Goding's reflections serve as a reminder of the event's ability to captivate audiences and bring people together. With his extensive experience and unique perspective, Goding's insights into the world of professional cycling are invaluable, providing a captivating narrative that transcends the sport itself. As the city prepares for the grand finale of the Tour de France, Goding's story serves as a fitting tribute to the event's enduring appeal and the photographer's own remarkable journey, spanning twenty years of documenting the world's most iconic cycling race.