Hundreds of spectators gathered on Kingston Bridge to get a sneak preview of London 2012 as the London-Surrey Cycle Classic passed through town.
Some people clambered up on the parapets to get a better view.
Police motorbikes regularly swept past to cheers. One rider stopped and tried to organise a Mexican Wave.
Expensive BMWs carrying VIPs and police also crossed the bridge ahead of the race but an ambulance with flashing sirens was later turned around.
When the riders did arrive, they passed in a flash.
A pair headed the field followed by a mass pack. Other smaller groups were arriving up to 20 minutes after but were cheered equally by the crowd.
In one group a suspiciously un-Olympic looking cyclist with a t-shirt, combat shorts and a rucksack cycled alongside the Lycra-clad athletes.
Children made a brief dash along the bridge on their BMXs but were ticked off.
Given the road closures as far away as the end of Brighton Road, amateur cyclists were everywhere, slowing down to negotiate the departing crowds with a few tuts.
But this was one day when it was OK to walk in a cycle lane without a telling off.
Were you there? Comment below, or send your photos to martingeorge@london.newsquest.co.uk.
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