Meet the Team
Cycle Côte d’Azur was set up by Emma and Claire to open up the stunning region to more people, it’s a cyclist’s playground where you can explore a different route every day of the year! We’re especially keen to welcome more female cyclists too!
Claire Blackie, Director
Hailing from Essex, England, I started cycling through triathlon, as an original member of the Serpentine Girls Tri Squad in London. Over the past twelve years I have competed in many different cycling, running and triathlon events all over UK and Europe, including London Marathon, Ironman France and La Marmotte. I am an experienced bike guide, having worked on cycling tours in the UK and Europe for both clubs and cycle tour companies. Cycling is definitely the best way to discover an area, whether it’s finding a breathtaking view, a tiny perched village, rolling along a quiet rural road, or it’s the sense of achievement you feel when you can look down at the multiple switchbacks you’ve just climbed! It’s also a fantastic way to make new friends.
Emma Davies, Director
Growing up in Cheshire, England, I have been racing since the age of 13. I competed in the 2000 and 2004 Olympic Games and the 2002 and 2006 Commonwealth Games, where I won a bronze medal. An established and respected cyclist I decided to retire from professional cycling in 2008.
Having competed at the highest level for over 12 years I have many years riding experience and a wide knowledge to help you improve your own goals. A degree in Sports Studies and several years as a commentator for Eurosport I have the all-round knowledge of cycling that can help you get the most out of your time in the Côte d’Azur. I have also been involved with London Paris 2008 and 2009 as a ride captain for Group 1, giving me the experience to guide your rides. Take advantage of the many years of experience and wealth of knowledge I have!
Annika Johannesen, Tour Coordinator
For as long as I can remember I have been running around outside, primarily in Bend, Oregon USA . In high school, I developed a passion for cross-country running and endurance training, which eventually led me to discover the joys of cycling. From there on out, bikes became my life. I started racing cyclocross for my local community college, and competed in collegiate and junior nationals that same year. The following spring I went on to race and win multiple Oregon State Championships in the road racing, mountain biking, and cyclocross disciplines, and also managed a 5th place result at the Junior Women’s Road Racing Nationals. For the last two years, up until moving to beautiful Nice, I have worked with awesome kids ranging in age from 4-16 on mountain bike skills and racing. I love the sense of freedom and potential you get when out exploring on the bike, as well as the camaraderie and fun to be had. Looking forward to meeting you all!
Our Guides
We have a fantastic group of guides working with us, who range from current and ex professional cyclists to local French and English experienced cyclists who just love to ride their bikes and know every road in the area. They all speak both English and French and can assist with mechanical issues and tell you the best restaurants and beaches to go to.
We’re always on the look out for new potential guides, contact us if you think you’re suitable.
