The first of installment of the 2019 - 2020 6 Day Series recently concluded in London. The series lured big name road riders to the velodrome, many of whom had not competed in track cycling for many years.

The World Tour riders in attendance enjoyed a more relaxing competitive environment than what they are accustomed to throughout the bulk of their road season. 

While the competition was fierce on the boards, the party atmosphere in the Lee Valley Velodrome gave way to casual and genuine interactions with the riders.

Scroll through to experience behind the scenes access at the London 6 Day through the lens of Daniel Hughes.

Simone Consonni joined forces with Elia Viviani to form Italy's winning team.

The rider's quarters or "cabins" are vestiges of the 24 hour 6 days of old.

The present six day format is unrecognizable from the extreme tests of endurance that were popularized in the late 1800's, but the cabins remain as a place for riders to relax between stints on the boards.

Owain Doull visits with compatriots Andy Tennant and Matt Bostock.

Riders get breaks from the racing action, but there is no escaping the sound system vibrating the walls inside the velodrome. Caleb Ewan relaxes as best as he can.

Madison World Champion Theo Reinhardt led Germany's challenge at the London 6 Day.

Olympic Champion Elia Viviani showed the world he is still the man to beat on the track in London. 

Elia Viviani's bike waits for him under the blue lights of the Lee Valley Velodrome.

A very bespoke SRM crankset commemorates Viviani's success at the 2016 Rio Olympic Games.

There can be no mistake who's bike this is. 

The third member of every 6 day team. The Derny drivers are crucial to any rider's success in 6 day racing. Riders draw the name of their pacer out of a hat prior to the race start.

Derny bikes have remained nearly unchanged since their conception in 1938. The 90cc two stroke engines provide loud and spectacular racing.

Even as riders took to their bikes, smiles persisted in the velodrome's party atmosphere.

Aero socks and fresh kicks. Fall fashion tips from Caleb Ewan.

Mark Cavendish wore a big smile on his face throughout all six days when he wasn't gasping for air behind a derny.