Interview with David Churchill

Official Photographer of L2M2022

For our readers that might not know, could you tell us a little bit about yourself, what you're normally up to (when taking a break from capturing great images of cyclists for us), and how your services contribute to the overall L2M experience?  

I am a photographer that usually shoots architecture, interiors and superyachts. I am commissioned by architects, designers, boatyards and charter houses to shoot their projects. Mainly to showcase their products/skills but sometimes to sell or charter.

When and how did you first get involved with Blue Marine and the London to Monaco (L2M) ride?

I first became aware of Blue Marine when they were the linked charity to a superyacht exhibition at the Saatchi Gallery in London. I had a few images there so was invited to the opening. Charles Clover made a very engaging speech at the end and it had me intrigued as to how I could get involved. I made a point to talk to Charles and SJ at the end and find out if there was anyway I could offer my services to them. Sj mentioned the London to Monaco ride and would I be happy to shoot the whole ride. I thought it was a good way to support them and also to learn more about them on the way.

What is so special about Blue Marine and the L2M ride that attracts you to partner with us again this year? 

The reason I am agreeing to partner with Blue Marine again this year is I have got to know many of the people there and feel I am part of the ride. It would be hard to pull myself away from it now! I also really strongly agree with the work they are doing and want to help them promote it to as wide an audience as possible.

What has been your fondest memory from working with Blue Marine and the L2M ride in previous years? 

There have been so many memories from shooting 3 rides now. Things that stand out are having my head stuck out of the sunroof for the first ride with Xavier driving who couldn’t speak much English and I couldn’t speak much French, but we got on so well! Also a very challenging leg last time where we set off in a group of about 10 riders. There was a very strong headwind and as the day went on more and more riders dropped off to be taken to the hotel by the support vehicles. In the end there was just me and Laura from Winch who battled on to the end, with the support riders from Just Pedal of course.

What are you most looking forward to about L2M 2022? 

With this years ride I’m looking forward to seeing everybody again old and new faces. This year is sponsored by Mini Moke and they are supplying one for me to shoot from. The will be so good, a perfect shoot car with all around visibility and somewhere to put my bike when I’m not riding.

From your previous experience as a L2M rider, is there any advice you would offer this years challengers before they set off?  

Advise for new riders is to get as many miles under your belt before the start to be prepared as possible. But also you seem to get fitter as the days go by. The second day is the hardest then your body seems to understand what is expected of it and each day gets slightly better from then on.

If you could come back in an afterlife as a sea creature - what would it be & why? 

If I had to come back as a sea creature in another life I would choose Sea Cucumber I think. They seem to have quite an easy life just cucumbering around on the sea floor.