Meet the riders: James Hockey, Knight Frank

James Hockey is new to Knight Frank Cycle to MIPIM. For his first venture, he is looking forward to the scenery and the ride experience of rolling road closures, but like many, is hoping the weather doesn't serve up both cold and wet together.

Tell us a little bit about yourself and what you're working on right now:
I’m 33, originally from Colchester in Essex but I now live in Walthamstow, London. I work as a Project Manager at Knight Frank, focusing on office refurbishment and enhancement projects on behalf of landlord and investor clients.

How long have you been cycling and how did you get into it?
I got my first road bike when I was about 17 or 18 (which I still own) but have always been a fairly casual cyclist. I did my first single day long distance event in 2014 when I did the Ride London-Surrey 100 and have been cycling on and off since then. I have done Ride London a couple more times, and I have been cycling to work since I moved to London.

How did you get involved in Cycle to MIPIM?
I’ve always been interested in Cycle to MIPIM ever since I first heard about it after joining Knight Frank, but I never thought I’d get the opportunity to do it myself. As soon as I heard Knight Frank had a few places up for grabs this year, I put my name forward straightaway, and was very happy to be given a place. 

What are you most looking forward to?
Riding through central and southern France with amazing scenery and rolling road closures, and enjoying the atmosphere in the peloton along the way.

What are you dreading?
If we have to push a headwind the whole way, or if it's cold and wet (don’t mind one or the other - just not both at the same time). And the sore bum…

How are you approaching training?
I am cycling to work 3-4 times a week (over an hour on the bike round trip) and 80-120km rides at the weekends. I'll be upping the distances closer to the departure date.

Any top tips you’ve picked up that you’ll take with you on the ride?
Top tube bags are great for easy access food whilst riding. Arm/leg warmers instead of full length bibs/tops are a good option for the cold morning starts, as they can be quickly removed as the day warms up.

What would you most like to get out of the event?
I'd like to raise lots of money for charity, meet lots of new people in the industry and make new friends, and get that sense of accomplishment from completing a tough endurance event.

We wish James the best of luck. You can find James' fundraising page here.