I remember the build up to leaving from The Ace Cafe London really well. There was me, Steve and Matt at the hotel getting excited like a bunch of school kids ahead of their first trip away from home. Alpinestars had custom made us a set of leathers each and we decided to try them for size before the next day’s departure. Trying them on for the first time was mad! Honestly, it was like Christmas day! To see us in those suits for the first time was amazing, me and Steve in pink and Matt in mean and moody black. The three Amigos were ready to ride!!

As a mark of respect to Marco Simoncelli (who had tragically died in a racing accident the week before) we decided to get some “Afro Style” wigs to wear but in pink. This was a charity ride and we all knew what a great sense of fun Marco had. We hope he appreciated it.

The next day we headed to the Ace Cafe and were greeted by a whole load of fellow bikers and the Carole Nash ladies who were all there to send us off in style. As we sat on our bikes with the crowds around us it did feel a bit like we were on the grid at a MotoGP. After paying tribute to Marco we were good and ready to start our journey. Viva Valencia!