THE day may have started with torrential rain, but the clouds parted to let the sun through as crowds gathered for the UCI Junior Mens Race.
Newbiggin in Richmond was already packed at 11am with team buses and young cyclists warming up in preparation for the big race.
The riders shared group hugs with teammates as they waiting in the Market Place for the start of the race before the leader of Richmond District Council, Angie Dale, cut the ribbon.
As the teenagers took off from the Market Place, the crowds, including youngsters from local schools, cheered and waved their flags.
Inspector Mark Gee from Richmond Police said it had been a fantastic event.
"It is great to see local families enjoying the atmosphere."
Leader of Richmondshire District Council Angie Dale said it had been exciting to see the district on the world stage.
"It was amazing to set the riders off by cutting the ribbon.
"Everything has gone seamlessly and it is largely thanks to a couple of years of hard work by council staff and officers, as well as the event organisers.
"The land art looks spectacular and the local schoolchildren have made artwork hanging on the Green Museum, and on little flags that have been handed out."
One excited family travelled from Sint Truiden, Belgium, to support 17-year-old Milan Paulus.
His mum, Carine Paulus, said she was nervous but keen to see him cross the finish line.
She said: "We have been here since yesterday and staying until Sunday to watch the rest of the team riders.
"He has been cycling for five years so has done very well to get here this year, it is his first year at UCI.
"I'm very nervous. He wants it to rain because he likes it in the wet but I want it to stay dry!
"I just hope he gets over the finish line ok. This is such a great experience for him as he wants to ride professionally in the future."
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