Episode 103: Rob McIvor – What Goes On Tour
Summary
In this episode, host Andrew Sykes interviews Rob McIver, a former Audax UK director and author of the novel *What Goes On Tour*. McIver discusses his background in long-distance cycling and explains how he used the 1977 Tour de France as a backdrop for a family saga involving secrets and identity. The conversation covers the differences between Audax events and commercial races, the writing process for a fictionalized cycling narrative, and McIver’s future plans to ride the US Coast-to-Coast.
Topics discussed
Introduction and guest background
Rob McIver's cycling and writing history
Earliest memories of cycling in Lancashire
The history and principles of Audax UK
Long-distance riding philosophy and self-sufficiency
Memorable tours in France, Spain, and Scotland
Cycling in the US and challenging weather conditions
Watching the Tour de France and UK coverage
Plot summary of 'What Goes On Tour'
Fiction vs. autobiography and setting choices
Historical accuracy and references to real events
Discussion on suspicious deaths in cycling history
Legal concerns and the 2027 Tour de France
The creative process and finding the story
Editing, beta readers, and explaining racing
Researching locations in the Alps and Pyrenees
Character analysis: Harry and Jim
Doping culture and the Armstrong era
Drug references in the novel and other works
Future cycling plans and the US coast-to-coast dream
Writing travelogues and book availability
Podcast updates, audiobooks, and closing remarks
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