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The is lots of knowledge on the web.

But we know that the web was really invented to share Unnecessary Knowledge.

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Talking 'bout a Revolution

Last weekend I was up in Manchester to go to Revolution 28. The Revolution series are track cycling meetings that are a cross between an exhibition event and a team meeting, which gives a chance for young talent to develop. Held at the national Velodrome on a Saturday evening it's a good family event for cycle fans - blending the best of the world (Sir Chris Hoy and Victoria Pendleton were competing) with up and coming talent.

I'd never been to the velodrome before and it's a great venue. Spectators are close to the tight, banked track as the athletes whizz past - the atmosphere is great. It must be incredible at a World Cup or championship event.

British Cycling is have a wonderful time - dominant on the track and now with a strong Protour professional team with Team Sky. Interestingly Sky where at the event doing some 3D recording - which will be fascinating to see. But like most sports in the UK it relies on a strong volunteer base. Looking at the officials at the meeting doing their thing in the centre of the track I couldn't help but wonder what some of these volunteers make of it - some of them must have been helping cycling during the lean years. I wonder what they'd have said if 15 years ago you'd told them what the state of UK cycling would be today - complete with knighthoods, world champions and a thorough and professional outfit?

So a great evening - thoroughly enjoyable. And the banking of the velodrome track has to be seen to be believed!

Moore at the Tate

Went to a preview of the Henry Moore exhibition at Tate Britain the other evening.

Not sure what to make of it. I'll admit that I'm not a huge sculpture fan, but looking at these pieces up close you are forced to admire the artistry. Moore worked with a variety of materials - bronze, concrete, elmwood, alabaster - and his works comes in a variety of sizes. Seeing them all together does give you an appreciation of the sheer scale of his work.

But... well... putting so much Moore in one place does dilute it. There is a whole room of 'Mother & Child' pieces, another room has numerous 'Reclining figures'. It, frankly, becomes rather boring and 'samey' after a while - perhaps less really is Moore.

However, there are some simply stunning drawing of miners at work and people sheltering in the Underground during WW2 - they are beautiful and haunting. These are certainly worth seeing and spending time with.

If you are a fan of Moore then you'll enjoy this. If not I suggest an alternative. Within yards of Tate Britain find two of Moore's pieces - one by the Thames across the river from MI6 building, one on the green by Parliament where the TV crews do their interviews. These are beautiful pieces in beautiful locations - and can be enjoyed for free.