Team Sky's first get together in Manchester is in its third day but so far meetings, presentations, planning and fitting sessions have filled most of the hours spent together.
Team principal Dave Brailsford has been working on the Team Sky project for two years, after the broadcaster first came on board with British Cycling in order to promote grassroots cycling. During those two years Brailsford, Scott Sunderland and Shane Sutton have selected all the staff and riders.
"A lot of people have come together to make this team happen, it's a pleasure to finally get together in Manchester and get things moving," Brailsford told Cycling Weekly.
"We're really happy with the welcome we've been able to give the riders at this first get together and they're really impressed with the steps we've taken. It's a busy time because we're working on laying the foundations so that we can compete at ProTour level from day one."
Rider's excitement for the new team can be see in Twitter messages. They are tiny glimpses of what is going on behind the scenes, but indicate Team Sky will be unique. Here's a selection...
Can't give away too much just yet but some very unique and unconventional ideas coming through. Watch this space...
Made it to Manchester. Greeted by sideways cold rain. But... Team Sky is next level. Hands down better than anything I've been with before.
Related links
Sean Yates looks forward to team Sky debut
Team Sky given ProTour licence
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