At Merlin Cycles, we live and breathe cycling, so when the opportunity arose to attend an exclusive “Evening With” professional cyclist Romain Bardet, we jumped at the chance. The event, held at the venue of our close friends Rivington Brewing Co. This is a perfect setting for a night of camaraderie, storytelling, and cycling inspiration. As close business partners of ours, the team at Rivington Brewery once again proved they know how to host a fantastic event, and the place was buzzing with fellow cycling enthusiasts.
teamJoining Romain Bardet on the panel were cycling commentator Rob Hatch and three Director Sportives from Team dsm-firmenich PostNL: Matt Winston, Roy Curvers, and Phil West, as well as young and upcoming rider Max Poole. Together, they created a lively and engaging discussion, packed with humour, insights, and behind-the-scenes stories from the world of professional cycling.
A Night of Cycling Stories
The evening kicked off with Romain Bardet, who shared personal anecdotes from his illustrious career. Whether he was describing the gruelling climbs of the Tour de France or the friendships forged in the peloton, his stories were both captivating and relatable. His humility and passion for the sport were clear, and it was a privilege to hear from one of cycling’s modern legends.
Rob Hatch, the voice of many iconic cycling moments, brought his wit and charm to the table, offering a unique perspective on the sport from behind the microphone. With tales of live commentary challenges and the quirks of the cycling world, Rob kept the audience laughing while shedding light on the art of broadcasting.
The trio of Matt Winston, Roy Curvers, and Phil West added incredible depth to the evening. Their behind-the-scenes insights into Team DSM’s operations were eye-opening. They discussed the meticulous planning involved in race tactics, the importance of managing rider dynamics, and even some funny and heartwarming moments that highlighted the human side of pro cycling.
Laughter, Insight & Inspiration
What stood out most was the camaraderie among the panellists. Their easy banter and shared love for cycling created a warm and welcoming atmosphere. From amusing anecdotes about life on the road to inspiring tales of triumph and perseverance, the evening struck a perfect balance between entertainment and insight.
The Rivington Brewery Tap Bar provided the ideal backdrop, with its relaxed vibe and fantastic selection of craft beers. It was great to see the cycling community come together in such a friendly and familiar setting, celebrating the sport we all love.
A Memorable Night for Cycling Fans
As the night wrapped up, we left with more than just stories to share—we left inspired. Hearing firsthand from some of cycling’s biggest names reminded us why we’re so passionate about this sport. It’s not just about the bikes or the races; it’s about the connections, the shared experiences, and the joy of being part of a vibrant cycling community.
A big thank you to Romain Bardet, Rob Hatch, Matt Winston, Roy Curvers, and Phil West for an unforgettable evening. And, of course, a huge shoutout to our friends at Rivington Brewery for hosting such a fantastic event.
If you’re ever in the area, we highly recommend stopping by Rivington Brewery Tap Bar—whether for a drink or to soak up the atmosphere, it’s always worth the visit. Here’s to many more nights like this, celebrating cycling and the people who make it so special.
