Last weekend was a bit windy to say the least, as anyone who got out on their bike will attest – perfect weather, then, for the third annual Dutch National Headwind Cycling Championships.

Held on the Oosterscheldekering – the Eastern Scheldt storm surge barrier, crossed by the Tour de France in July – the date of this year’s event was announced just days beforehand once the looming storm was confirmed.

Forget roadies on aero machines – cyclists have to ride on single speed upright bikes supplied by the organisers of the event, which is sponsored by Eneco,

This video shows the faces of some competitors after their ride into the wind was over, while the one underneath, from last year, gives a clear idea of exactly what the riders have to contend with.