Condor has been supporting the Women’s Track League at Herne Hill Velodrome since racing resumed following the pandemic.
The six date league is open to all levels of track rider with three experience categories to give riders the best opportunity to get the most from their racing.
At each round we ask a photographer to the event to capture the action. Condor makes the images available to the riders to download for free, so they can document, remember, and share their own participation over the season.
Round one took place on 15th April, and photographer, Mark James, took up the task for Condor.
Interested in track cycling and want to get started? Herne Hill Velodrome have a developed a track cycling pathway to take you from beginner, all the way to entering your first event. With the support of Condor, the Herne Hill Velodrome provide women's only sessions beginner, training, and race practice sessions.
Can you choose your favourite images from the evening of racing?
I like to try and not just capture the event but other aspects like shapes, lines, symmetry, personalities, colours. I love the combination of faces, riders and the location. I especially like the one of Elisabetta, lit by the laptop screen. The balance of the two Brixton riders feels good too.
What did you find hardest about photographing the league?
The toughest part of photographing early or late in the season is the fading light and shooting under floodlight as the correct exposure can be tough to get with limited light. It's a fun challenge to work out. Photographing somewhere as iconic as Herne Hill is always an honour but with it comes its own challenges. Whilst you can get good shots of riders in action, it's hard to differentiate your photos from another photographer.
Can you sum up what photography means to you in five words?
Exciting, challenging, eye opening, technical, healthy.
Can you describe the atmosphere at the Women's League?
We were blessed with dry weather and the attendance was excellent with competitive but friendly racing. I especially like the inclusivity with teams such as Velociposse, that's got to be the way forward for the sport.
What was the best part about photographing the league?
Meeting the riders, organisers and supporters in person. I felt free to mingle and shoot as I felt, which always makes for better photos. I cant wait to do the next one!
Where can we see more of your work?
I was lucky to do press at The Traka in Girona in the last week. There are a selection of images across my Instagram.
