2019 photographs of the year: Michael Blann

2019 photographs of the year: Michael Blann

Mountainscapes, Geraint Thomas and three rounds with Bouhanni – Blann’s pick of a bumper crop


Michael had a busy year for us in 2019, alongside producing work for the updated edition of his best-selling book Mountains: Epic Cycling Climbs available now to pre-order.


His selection ranges from race shots at the Tour and Giro, to a sparring session with Nacer Bouhanni in the boxing ring, via an insiders view of a Zwift advertising shoot with Geraint Thomas.

Nacer Bouhanni
Bouhanni playing to the camera. Initially we only expected him to stand there for a portrait but once in front of the camera he started sparring with us, enjoying his moment.
Nacer Bouhanni
Nacer Bouhanni – Taking a blow from his off-season training partner. Contrary to cycling convention, Bouhanni uses boxing to stay fit during the off-season. This has only helped fuel his bad boy image which some of the French media like to portray.
Peter Kennaugh
Peter Kennaugh. From an upcoming 2020 feature on his retirement and mental wellbeing during his career.
Geraint Thomas
Geraint Thomas. Winning a Tour de France brings financial reward in the form of endorsements and advertising campaigns. Captured here on a commercial shoot for Zwift.
Former professional and owner of the Service Course in Girona, Christian Meier, being photo-bombed by a bunch of tourists on a shoot for Hexr helmets.
Mortirolo
Giro D’Italia, Passo Mortirolo. Weather in the Dolomites in May is always unpredictable and the heavens opened on this day leaving both riders and fans frozen.
Colle Del Novolet
Giro d’Italia – Colle del Nivolet. A climb rarely used in the Giro due to the logistics of getting the caravan and support vehicles up this narrow road and limited space at the summit.
Lautaret
Caravans line the route to the base of the Col du Galibier.

 

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