Quote Peewee: ***"I was going for the crowds in waiting, looking for the bikers and basically ignoring a beautiful backdrop"

 ***Was there a some kind of RACE or BIKING event going on?  If so, (IMO) this image doesn't capture that at all.   I get a very tourist....  taking vacation pics kinda feel from it. 

The photo seems too "tight"... a wider angle shot definitely would  have been a better choice here (in my minds eye).  As is its unbalanced and there is no real focus.

I agree with the others comments....exploring the space; get to know the surroundings and how different times of day affect the lighting.  Get in the habit of shooting from a variety of vantage points (if possible) both close and from afar....instead of just taking a picture.....TELL A STORY!!!

I can relate believe me....been there done this many times, where I took a photo that I thought a the time was eye catching and interesting only to find out that wasn't the case (after viewing on the computer!)

Thanks for "stepping up"  and giving us the opportunity to critique your work and learn some things in the process.

Joe