Clasica Sân Sebastian peloton nearing the finish.

Back to San Sebastián today with the main event the Clasica San Sebastián being run. This professional bike rase is part of the European Championship series so all the top rides will be there. Never been to a bike race before so it should be fun. We plan to be at the finish line this afternoon.

So we took our time getting ready and eventually meandered down to the bus stop. As we rounded the last corner we saw the bus roar off down the hill. This meant an hour’s wait for the next one so we decided to walk the 1.7 km. At least it was down hill, cool, and with a nice breeze.

There was some wandering among the shops which were open today so I bring you a bit more of San Sebastián.

The old clock mechanism for the huge tower clock.

The beach was busy as you would expect.

Another very talented busker, this one playing a 10 string electric charango, originating from South America.

Had to visit another museum, this one on Basque history. The museum is in the old building with the new one an entrance and admin centre.

The wall of the new building was designed with a lot of holes in it. Wether by accident or design they facilitate some great plant work.

This is a locking system to secure your umbrella. Not sure if it advertises a lot of rain in San Sebastián or a lot of umbrella thievery.

Overall we felt the museum disappointing in explaining the Basque history. This may be due to there being very little explanation in English but it looked much like any other indigenous race museum. This church however was amazing.

In the blog about Zauritz a few days ago I showed a photo of a two walled racquet game. I have now identified it as Jai Alai. Here some of the equipment is displayed.

A vintage horse racing themed roulette wheel.

An early motorbike.

Time to hurry to the finish line as the race was due to conclude. We have watched Tour de France and professional cycling races but never been close to the real thing. Today was an opportunity not to be missed and it was an incredibly thrilling experience. It is impossible not to be caught up in the excitement of the crowd and the announcer, specially in Spanish.

After the peloton comes all the team support cars, almost a show all on its own.

Cycling is huge in Europe and the crowds were massive.

I had a great spot for my photos until all the pro photographers agreed with me and hogged my view.

The winner, Remco Evenepoel, just after crossing the line. with Richard Carapaz in second.

The winner gets to wear a funny hat in San Sebastián.

It was an exciting and unique day and a lot of fun to be involved even as a spectator with a cycling event. Tomorrow we explore more Basque Country.

David & Collette