* The author is part of the community of readers of La Vanguardia
Few hours are left until this Saturday, at 12:30 p.m., the world cycling event par excellence begins to pedal; the Tour de France, which this time kicks off in the cosmopolitan and always appealing Bilbao. Although in reality that yellow perfume has been flooding the city and its surroundings for weeks, even months.
Because neither decision nor proof can be improvised, in the case of a framework that is woven meticulously and, precisely, throughout the days. From the money, discussed or not, that the city pays to host such a magnanimous event, to the route through which the delegation and cyclists will travel. Traffic cuts, transport reinforcement; security…
The hourglass falls, leaving very little, and the yellow perfume intensifies, like that of the gigantic lime trees on the Gran Vía, when they bloom in spring.
Signs, symbols, warnings appear everywhere. That become a generalized invitation to participate; to the party, to the revelry.
A combination in studied and successful proportions, of sport, enjoyment for citizens and visitors, and generation of profitability.
From end to end, the city smells and has dressed as a tour. And not only because the people of Bilbao wear T-shirts with red polka dots, offered free of charge by the firm Leclerc and little orange hats from the native Euskaltel, and they also wear yellow scarves around their necks and ikurriñas on their backs; but also because the street furniture is decorated for the unforgettable occasion.
Yellow and white ribbons with red circles (hopefully all of them biodegradable in favor of the much-vogue sustainability) adorn planters and benches. Flags, they do it on lampposts and buildings, signs in shops, and there are bicycles everywhere.
Stalls, parades that occupy the tram tracks, giant screens and sun loungers with logos. A theme fair, activities for children.
And hotels full with exorbitant prices and restaurants full. And bars with their bars full of txakoli, beer, txikitos and pintxos. And reporters and photographers from anywhere, looking for the best news and the best angles.
In short, that no one has wanted to stay at home and that everyone has come here; to ride with the Tour de France.
Three, two, one… let’s pedal!
