Meet the riders: Mike Thornton, Knight Frank

Knight Frank's Mike Thornton will be a familiar face to many Cycle to MIPIM riders, having first taken part in the relay in 2013 and riding it twice since. We are glad he is returning again, and he also brings with him some great tips for new riders.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you’re working on right now: 
I'm a Partner in the Knight Frank Property and Asset Management team. I am 50 and live with my wife and 2 girls (9 and 13) in Surrey.
I’m currently working on a number of existing mandates in Central London as well as new business opportunities. Existing mandates range from management of 3 Mills Studios in East London (where we currently film anything from Masterchef to Ru Paul’s Drag race) to Sellar’s latest development Paddington Square. There are lots of opportunities in the market at the moment so follow me on LinkedIn to find out more.
 
How long have you been cycling and how did you get into it?
I’ve always ridden a bike from an early age. I was brought up in the age where you were kicked out of the house at the weekend and told to be back before dark. I had a Striker, a Grifter and a Raleigh Burner. My brother got the Raleigh Chopper and BMX with Mag Wheels (he’s the favourite).
For serious cycling, it was Cycle to MIPIM in 2013 that got me into endurance riding. I bought a Pinnacle Evaporite II from Evans on the Cycle to Work Scheme in 2012 and started training for the March 2013 ride. I was working for Broadgate Estates (British Land) at the time and they were headline sponsors.
 
What did you most enjoy about the times you have ridden Cycle to MIPIM previously?
I’ve previously taken part in Cycle to MIPIM in 2013, 2018 and 2022… and yes it has taken me 4-5 years each time to reconsider going again! 
What I have enjoyed most about the times I have ridden previously is the camaraderie and lifetime friendships that are formed bonding in Lycra over hours in the saddle.
 
What are you most looking forward to this time?
Some warm weather without wind and rain. I’ve never experienced it on these rides.
 
Anything you are dreading?
Not getting the weather. Injury potential is a concern. Since 2013, I’ve had a hip replacement and broken a few ribs. I’ve also witnessed a couple of nasty crashes on the tour so am hoping everyone joining has their wits about them.

What is so enduring about this relay challenge that makes people come back year on year?
 No idea, I think they are mad! On a serious note though, it’s the people, the networking potential and the good cause raising money for Club Peloton.
 
Any top tips for new riders?
Be organised. Having fresh kit laid out, lights and phone charged the night before will pay dividends. Also have a couple of porridge pots in your bag so if you’re running late for that first leg, you can get something down your neck in your room rather than a bun fight at the hotel breakfast buffet at 530am.
 
What changes does your business expect to see over the next year?
Well LandSec have called the bottom of the market, so we are very optimistic that things will pick up from the latter half of this year.
 
Great to have you back, Mike, and some sound words of advice for new riders. Find Mike's JustGiving page here.