Tracey reporting Jeremy's pre-photocall snippet.
When the group left their impressive accomodation this morning, they were hoping for a fairly easy last day after yesterday's slog, but it wasn't to be. The on-shore wind had already begun to get up, so they had to battle against it all day. They also still had 700m of climbing to do, despite this being a relatively flat route. Added to that, was a bit of excitement when John H's saddle-pin sheared off. Amazingly, they found a bike shop almost immediately - but it was closed for a 3.5 hour lunch hour!! They didn't quite want such a long break themselves, so they rigged a cable-tie fix, though this still meant that John had to cycle without sitting down properly for 12 miles. Fortunately, they then found a really nice bike shop that mended the attachment quickly and effectively.
By the time the guys reached the Mediterranean, the sky was looking stormy, but weather held for them. They finished at 5.15pm local time, celebrating the end of their trip, and 21000m total climb, with champagne by the sea. Hopefully photos will follow shortly.
Well done guys, and thanks again to the rest of the team!
Friday 21 September 2007
Thursday 20 September 2007
Day 11 - Last hard slog
Tracey translating Jeremy with asides and a confession from John H.
The team have rechristened last night's stop-over town. Ax les Thermes is now Axe les Thermes. Apparently it's mostly dominated by a big "neon nasty" Casino and has a generally tawdry air. The Hotel L'Auzeraie didn't improve matters with difficulty getting access to the building and rude staff when you got in. Oh - and mediocre food (big sin in a cyclist's eyes!). The town does have one saving grace - various "paddling pools" around the town fed by thermally-heated water which were great for soaking cycle-worn feet in (though you need to make sure you're far enough away from the inlet not to poach them instead!).
Sounds like today made up for it though. Beginning cool, but sunny, it provided great conditions for the first monster col (Porte de Pailheres, 2001m). It took almost 20km of climb to reach the top - tough but steady to begin with, then flattening out as the came to a new ski resort. Finally the last 7km were at 9%+ which got tough. Some of the party found it really hard, though they all said it was still enjoyable. John H called it the second best climb after Tourmalet, and confessed that he is in danger of actually starting to enjoy climbs! The views at the top were apparently truly amazing, especially as the "col" is actually almost the top of the mountain, but for a tussock - which of course the guys stood on. They could clearly see the rest of their route, and down into the plains.
Going down, they found a great lunch spot at beginning of Gorge d'Aude - next to an old ruined chateau. This gorge was "a proper one" with steep, cliff sides and very beautiful, but the team had to eventually turn off it, up to the last big climb of the trip - Col de Jau. As they started the ascent, they crossed paths with cyclists on a guided tour - mostly British and some of our guys were very courteous and "let them pass". This, of course, had nothing to do with some being female cyclists, or this causing an improved view... This climb got tough quite quickly because the temperature had really got up, and they were cycling right into the sun. They discovered that you can't cycle and drink on a steep climb, as you end up unable to breathe enough, so they had to spend a while at the top rehydrating. The sea was supposed to be visible from top, but the haze made this a bit of an 'eye of faith' view . The descent paid back the slog up, winding through really picturesque villages, one of which made the perfect stop for a well-earned coffee and hot choc break. They then resumed the long descent, eventually reaching the plains with olive groves and a backdrop of mountains making for some stunning views. The only low point was where they had to join a main road for a bit, but fortunately tonight's stop, in I'Isles sur Tet is on a side-road and much quieter.
The group are currently enjoying staying in an auberge set in a grand old house, with lots of old paintings, statues and drawers full of knicknacks. The hosts are cooking for the boys as well so they plan to be on best behaviour.
After today's 112km slog, the guys will hopefully enjoy a relatively easy day tomorrow as they cross the last bit of the plains to the Med, though 40mph on-shore winds are forecast on Saturday, so let's hope they don't arrive early, or they may get blown back up to the last col!
The team have rechristened last night's stop-over town. Ax les Thermes is now Axe les Thermes. Apparently it's mostly dominated by a big "neon nasty" Casino and has a generally tawdry air. The Hotel L'Auzeraie didn't improve matters with difficulty getting access to the building and rude staff when you got in. Oh - and mediocre food (big sin in a cyclist's eyes!). The town does have one saving grace - various "paddling pools" around the town fed by thermally-heated water which were great for soaking cycle-worn feet in (though you need to make sure you're far enough away from the inlet not to poach them instead!).
Sounds like today made up for it though. Beginning cool, but sunny, it provided great conditions for the first monster col (Porte de Pailheres, 2001m). It took almost 20km of climb to reach the top - tough but steady to begin with, then flattening out as the came to a new ski resort. Finally the last 7km were at 9%+ which got tough. Some of the party found it really hard, though they all said it was still enjoyable. John H called it the second best climb after Tourmalet, and confessed that he is in danger of actually starting to enjoy climbs! The views at the top were apparently truly amazing, especially as the "col" is actually almost the top of the mountain, but for a tussock - which of course the guys stood on. They could clearly see the rest of their route, and down into the plains.
Going down, they found a great lunch spot at beginning of Gorge d'Aude - next to an old ruined chateau. This gorge was "a proper one" with steep, cliff sides and very beautiful, but the team had to eventually turn off it, up to the last big climb of the trip - Col de Jau. As they started the ascent, they crossed paths with cyclists on a guided tour - mostly British and some of our guys were very courteous and "let them pass". This, of course, had nothing to do with some being female cyclists, or this causing an improved view... This climb got tough quite quickly because the temperature had really got up, and they were cycling right into the sun. They discovered that you can't cycle and drink on a steep climb, as you end up unable to breathe enough, so they had to spend a while at the top rehydrating. The sea was supposed to be visible from top, but the haze made this a bit of an 'eye of faith' view . The descent paid back the slog up, winding through really picturesque villages, one of which made the perfect stop for a well-earned coffee and hot choc break. They then resumed the long descent, eventually reaching the plains with olive groves and a backdrop of mountains making for some stunning views. The only low point was where they had to join a main road for a bit, but fortunately tonight's stop, in I'Isles sur Tet is on a side-road and much quieter.
The group are currently enjoying staying in an auberge set in a grand old house, with lots of old paintings, statues and drawers full of knicknacks. The hosts are cooking for the boys as well so they plan to be on best behaviour.
After today's 112km slog, the guys will hopefully enjoy a relatively easy day tomorrow as they cross the last bit of the plains to the Med, though 40mph on-shore winds are forecast on Saturday, so let's hope they don't arrive early, or they may get blown back up to the last col!
Wednesday 19 September 2007
Day 10 - 2 Everests Target Reached!
Tracey for Jeremy - just for variety, keeping him from his bath.
Today was apparently "fantastic", and sounds like the kind of day that makes you want to go on cycling holidays. It began with a cycle up a gently sloping river-valley as it narrowed into a gorge, enjoying views of lots of herons and numerous unidentified shocking pink flowers. The group passed their "2 Everests" 16000m target quite early on, but after a quick road-side celebration, they realised they were on the wrong road and had to turn around!
The trip up to Col de Port sounds really enjoyable with lots of gentle climbing through villages, fields and trees. Lunch at the top was the standard (and delicious) french bread and cheese, enlivened by horses trying to mug John H for his bananas. Apparently, in local dialet, Col de Port, would actually mean Col de Col, as a port is a col...
The guys enjoyed another descent overtaking cars. As they came down, the scenery changed quite abruptly - with south facing slopes especially beginning to look dry and burnt, so they have clearly moved into a more Mediterranean climate zone.
Going up to the next Col - Pas de Souloumbrie they moved through some very unusual limestone scenery. Jeremy tried to describe this, but only proved that it defied description, so I'll let you wait for the photos. They also saw signs for a cave with prehistoric paintings, but sadly had no spare time or energy to detour.
The highest point and last climb of the day was up the Route de Cornich, to Col de Chioula at 1431m. At one point, the group were passed under a cable car taking talc from a quarry above them into the valley below, which they found quite impressive. More impressive though for the cyclist, was that the road then dropped 700m in 7km, providing the fun of a fast descent on a good, dry road surface. Unfortunatley, John H. had to miss last climb as he was not feeling good, but rest did 2200m of climbing over the day and 112km on the road.
There is a small concern that some kind of bug may be sweeping through the group. Pete was unwell yesterday and last night Sian was ill. Then, during the day, John H was not feeling well. Fortunately for the others, the main annoyance has been the bath at their hotels have been far too short for a comfortable soak.
Let's hope that everyone is in good health tomorrow, as it includes the last and toughest big climb of whole route, and is apparently rated as being tougher than the Tourmalet, so fingers crossed!
Today was apparently "fantastic", and sounds like the kind of day that makes you want to go on cycling holidays. It began with a cycle up a gently sloping river-valley as it narrowed into a gorge, enjoying views of lots of herons and numerous unidentified shocking pink flowers. The group passed their "2 Everests" 16000m target quite early on, but after a quick road-side celebration, they realised they were on the wrong road and had to turn around!
The trip up to Col de Port sounds really enjoyable with lots of gentle climbing through villages, fields and trees. Lunch at the top was the standard (and delicious) french bread and cheese, enlivened by horses trying to mug John H for his bananas. Apparently, in local dialet, Col de Port, would actually mean Col de Col, as a port is a col...
The guys enjoyed another descent overtaking cars. As they came down, the scenery changed quite abruptly - with south facing slopes especially beginning to look dry and burnt, so they have clearly moved into a more Mediterranean climate zone.
Going up to the next Col - Pas de Souloumbrie they moved through some very unusual limestone scenery. Jeremy tried to describe this, but only proved that it defied description, so I'll let you wait for the photos. They also saw signs for a cave with prehistoric paintings, but sadly had no spare time or energy to detour.
The highest point and last climb of the day was up the Route de Cornich, to Col de Chioula at 1431m. At one point, the group were passed under a cable car taking talc from a quarry above them into the valley below, which they found quite impressive. More impressive though for the cyclist, was that the road then dropped 700m in 7km, providing the fun of a fast descent on a good, dry road surface. Unfortunatley, John H. had to miss last climb as he was not feeling good, but rest did 2200m of climbing over the day and 112km on the road.
There is a small concern that some kind of bug may be sweeping through the group. Pete was unwell yesterday and last night Sian was ill. Then, during the day, John H was not feeling well. Fortunately for the others, the main annoyance has been the bath at their hotels have been far too short for a comfortable soak.
Let's hope that everyone is in good health tomorrow, as it includes the last and toughest big climb of whole route, and is apparently rated as being tougher than the Tourmalet, so fingers crossed!
Tuesday 18 September 2007
Day 9 - Last time in Spain.
Written up by Tracey, though, for a change, Jeremy was keeping me from my tea.
So today the guys go back in the saddle for quite a gruelling day. They worked out that at least 18km of the journey was at 9% slope or over, taking all the ascents into acount.
The day began with a shower, after a night of rain, but then settled into dry but cloudy weather. The first climb, up Col du Portillon, was through very atmospheric misty woods. They all gathered at top, and started down, but after 100m, all had to stop to put on lots of extra clothes, as it was so cold! It was a long, cold descent, and the road was pretty dirty - Paul had to change his brake-blocks on the way down, because debris got embedded in them and started scraping the rim.
The day continued grey at they went up through Spain (for the last time), then back into France on a main road, dodging lorries - some driven very impatiently... The next climb was Col de Mente - quite tough with 9km climb at over 9% in one go, but they managed a steady pace through gradually clearing weather. This time, it was so cold at the top that despite piling on clothes again, John C and Jeremy got too cold to wait for Paul and John H. They went on down and left Sian to tell others they hadn't been deserted and that they would stop at the next Col. Since Jeremy and John C. had the food for the group, it was quite an incentive, though the other col wasn't far.
Jeremy and John C got to start of other Col de Portet d'Aspet and paid a quick visit to a memorial there that was pretty poignant for them. In 1995, a Tour de France rider was killed when he fell from his bike coming down from the Col. The road up is 4km of exceptionally steep slopes, peaking at 17%! I don't know about the guys, but I'm glad they were going up that rather than down (unlike their unfortunate predecessor), as their descent on the other side was a lot more gentle. As they reached the top of the col, they realised it was still very cold so they again decided to press on, rather than get chilled. Sian (who had caught up again) was supposed to tell John H and Paul that they would wait in a village on the other side, but she decided to have a little fun, telling the followers, "They've headed to next Col". John H. had a few very worried and hungry moments before he remembered there were no more cols to climb today!
Eventually all were reunited for a well-deserved lunch in picturesque St. Lary. Then they made a long, slow descent into St. Girons. During the day, they noticed lots of anti bear slogans (L'ours non, Death to Babu), as bears have been re-introduced into the area, having previously been hunted to extinction. The writing style seemed pretty similar each time, so the guys were speculating that it might have just been one person with a major grudge and a lot of paint. Pete and Ant rejoined the group at the end of the day, after a morning's walking and an afternoon driving the cyclist's route. It was clearly quite a slog, as Ant said, "That was a difficult drive!"
Today's statistics - 96km on the road, 2190m climbed. They've almost done 2 Everests!!
It was a good day for everyone, which is just as well, as tomorrow is another long day though with less climbing tomorrow, and the weather is due to improve.
So today the guys go back in the saddle for quite a gruelling day. They worked out that at least 18km of the journey was at 9% slope or over, taking all the ascents into acount.
The day began with a shower, after a night of rain, but then settled into dry but cloudy weather. The first climb, up Col du Portillon, was through very atmospheric misty woods. They all gathered at top, and started down, but after 100m, all had to stop to put on lots of extra clothes, as it was so cold! It was a long, cold descent, and the road was pretty dirty - Paul had to change his brake-blocks on the way down, because debris got embedded in them and started scraping the rim.
The day continued grey at they went up through Spain (for the last time), then back into France on a main road, dodging lorries - some driven very impatiently... The next climb was Col de Mente - quite tough with 9km climb at over 9% in one go, but they managed a steady pace through gradually clearing weather. This time, it was so cold at the top that despite piling on clothes again, John C and Jeremy got too cold to wait for Paul and John H. They went on down and left Sian to tell others they hadn't been deserted and that they would stop at the next Col. Since Jeremy and John C. had the food for the group, it was quite an incentive, though the other col wasn't far.
Jeremy and John C got to start of other Col de Portet d'Aspet and paid a quick visit to a memorial there that was pretty poignant for them. In 1995, a Tour de France rider was killed when he fell from his bike coming down from the Col. The road up is 4km of exceptionally steep slopes, peaking at 17%! I don't know about the guys, but I'm glad they were going up that rather than down (unlike their unfortunate predecessor), as their descent on the other side was a lot more gentle. As they reached the top of the col, they realised it was still very cold so they again decided to press on, rather than get chilled. Sian (who had caught up again) was supposed to tell John H and Paul that they would wait in a village on the other side, but she decided to have a little fun, telling the followers, "They've headed to next Col". John H. had a few very worried and hungry moments before he remembered there were no more cols to climb today!
Eventually all were reunited for a well-deserved lunch in picturesque St. Lary. Then they made a long, slow descent into St. Girons. During the day, they noticed lots of anti bear slogans (L'ours non, Death to Babu), as bears have been re-introduced into the area, having previously been hunted to extinction. The writing style seemed pretty similar each time, so the guys were speculating that it might have just been one person with a major grudge and a lot of paint. Pete and Ant rejoined the group at the end of the day, after a morning's walking and an afternoon driving the cyclist's route. It was clearly quite a slog, as Ant said, "That was a difficult drive!"
Today's statistics - 96km on the road, 2190m climbed. They've almost done 2 Everests!!
It was a good day for everyone, which is just as well, as tomorrow is another long day though with less climbing tomorrow, and the weather is due to improve.
Monday 17 September 2007
Day 8. Rest & Web site updated
This is Jeremy here - finally with internet access, but not much time! Just to let you know I have just up-dated the home page with photos up to day 6. Follow the link at the top right of the page.
I am sitting in an Internet place on the main street at the centre of Luchon with the first serious rain falling outside. Forcast for tomorrow is not good either, so we may be getting our first drenching of the trip!
Have to dash now. A big thankyou from the team to Tracey for doing such a brilliant job of the Blog, and to Roy for his help last week. Also to all of you sending us messages of support as we go along.
Bye for now
Jeremy
I am sitting in an Internet place on the main street at the centre of Luchon with the first serious rain falling outside. Forcast for tomorrow is not good either, so we may be getting our first drenching of the trip!
Have to dash now. A big thankyou from the team to Tracey for doing such a brilliant job of the Blog, and to Roy for his help last week. Also to all of you sending us messages of support as we go along.
Bye for now
Jeremy
Sunday 16 September 2007
Day 7 - Short day and changes
Tracey back to interrupting Jeremy's dinner (sorry!).
This was a short day, though it still involved cycling 34km - and probably 800m of climb, as well as a lovely run through the beautiful Vallee du Louron with its views of the biggest mountains. The group only did one col - Col de Peyresourde, and ended up in the spa town of Bagneres. Jeremy was clear about the best bit of the journey. On the top of col the group found a brilliant cafe which sold 12 crepes for 4 Euros - the cyclists idea of heaven!
Today was planned as a short day to make it easier for the support drivers to change over. It all went smoothly as John C took Roy to the airport at Po and picked up his wife, Sian at the same time. The spare time also allowed the group to take a cable car to Super-Bagneres up to a viewpoint at 1800m. This gives a view of all the biggest peaks, like Pic du Quairat - 3600m, and their glaciers (or what's left of them, as they are only 20% of the size they were 50 years ago).
The group also managed to meet up with Pete & Ant successfully, and tonight everyone is staying at a really friendly Chambre d'Hote owned by an English couple who are fantastic hosts.
Tomorrow is forecast for rain, but for once, it won't matter. It's time to wash socks, go for walks, and for some of the group go for a treatment session at the thermal baths.
Enjoy the rest guys!
This was a short day, though it still involved cycling 34km - and probably 800m of climb, as well as a lovely run through the beautiful Vallee du Louron with its views of the biggest mountains. The group only did one col - Col de Peyresourde, and ended up in the spa town of Bagneres. Jeremy was clear about the best bit of the journey. On the top of col the group found a brilliant cafe which sold 12 crepes for 4 Euros - the cyclists idea of heaven!
Today was planned as a short day to make it easier for the support drivers to change over. It all went smoothly as John C took Roy to the airport at Po and picked up his wife, Sian at the same time. The spare time also allowed the group to take a cable car to Super-Bagneres up to a viewpoint at 1800m. This gives a view of all the biggest peaks, like Pic du Quairat - 3600m, and their glaciers (or what's left of them, as they are only 20% of the size they were 50 years ago).
The group also managed to meet up with Pete & Ant successfully, and tonight everyone is staying at a really friendly Chambre d'Hote owned by an English couple who are fantastic hosts.
Tomorrow is forecast for rain, but for once, it won't matter. It's time to wash socks, go for walks, and for some of the group go for a treatment session at the thermal baths.
Enjoy the rest guys!
Saturday 15 September 2007
Day 6 - "The Big One"
Tracey - this time keeping Jeremy from his beer!
Well - sounds like today was quite a bit more fun than the guys dared hope for. The Col de Tormalet was a hard climb, but since it was always under 10%, apart from the last km, everyone was able to keep going slow and steady. I'm apparently officially allowed to report John H's reaction, "The most enjoyable climb I've ever done!" and sounds like the others all felt pretty good at the top too. Certainly there was much celebration sent back to Britain via texts (the joys of the mobile!).
The fact that the weather was good helped things to go smoothly, and the clear day meant that they got the views this time, so look our for lots of pictures on the web page when they next get internet access. Good weather also meant a fantastic descent and a very picturesque lunch stop on the way down.
The next top was Col d'Aspin - which was apparently modelled with close reference to a Geography text book, so if you remember that classic corrie shape, you'll know what it looked like. At the top, the group met lots of cows and goats which were busily mugging tourists for food. John C dared to give one a little attention without providing it anything to eat and got head butted in the chest, which sent him flying. Fortunately his cat like grace meant he landed on his feet without injury! On the way down, the guys discovered that their bikes were a lot better at cornering than other vehicles, so they got one of the great thrills for a cyclist - over-taking cars!
When they got to the Pic du Midi road, (which was always going to be optional), they saw that the road was very rough, so they decided it would be a bit reckless to attempt it. They don't need it for the 2 Everest goal, and descending that distance on that surface at that angle would obviously have been dangerous.
Stats for today - 2200m climbed + 62km on the road.
Apparently the guys have been seeing lots of Red Kites as they go along, and have been able to get quite a close look at some of them soaring along close to the mountain roads. Today was another Kite day - hopefully a good omen, as during the chat tonight, Jeremy dared to utter the phrase that no cyclist should say on tour - "We haven't had any punctures yet..." Probably time to check those repair kits, lads!
Everyone seemed pretty cheerful tonight. There's a real sense that after today, everything is do-able. They were also happily esconced in a Cafebar, tucking into a pre-dinner dinner and a few beers. The food was very welcome, as the guys have been finding the French late dining hour rather taxing. It was also a bit of a celebration, as tonight will be Roy's last night as group support, and everyone wants to let him know how much they appreciate him standing in at the last minute. Huge thanks from us at home too - it's been good to know that they have a bit of a safety net, even if they haven't needed a broom wagon so far! Sian - John C's wife will be the new Roy for the rest of the trip, and again the group is really grateful that she was willing to step in at such a late stage.
It will be all change for the group as Pete, (brother of John H) and Pete's son Ant, will be also coming to the area for a spot of walking & trouble making, redezvousing with the cyclists in the evenings. I'd advise them to meet the guys bearing patiserries if they want a good reception at the end of a ride!
Well - sounds like today was quite a bit more fun than the guys dared hope for. The Col de Tormalet was a hard climb, but since it was always under 10%, apart from the last km, everyone was able to keep going slow and steady. I'm apparently officially allowed to report John H's reaction, "The most enjoyable climb I've ever done!" and sounds like the others all felt pretty good at the top too. Certainly there was much celebration sent back to Britain via texts (the joys of the mobile!).
The fact that the weather was good helped things to go smoothly, and the clear day meant that they got the views this time, so look our for lots of pictures on the web page when they next get internet access. Good weather also meant a fantastic descent and a very picturesque lunch stop on the way down.
The next top was Col d'Aspin - which was apparently modelled with close reference to a Geography text book, so if you remember that classic corrie shape, you'll know what it looked like. At the top, the group met lots of cows and goats which were busily mugging tourists for food. John C dared to give one a little attention without providing it anything to eat and got head butted in the chest, which sent him flying. Fortunately his cat like grace meant he landed on his feet without injury! On the way down, the guys discovered that their bikes were a lot better at cornering than other vehicles, so they got one of the great thrills for a cyclist - over-taking cars!
When they got to the Pic du Midi road, (which was always going to be optional), they saw that the road was very rough, so they decided it would be a bit reckless to attempt it. They don't need it for the 2 Everest goal, and descending that distance on that surface at that angle would obviously have been dangerous.
Stats for today - 2200m climbed + 62km on the road.
Apparently the guys have been seeing lots of Red Kites as they go along, and have been able to get quite a close look at some of them soaring along close to the mountain roads. Today was another Kite day - hopefully a good omen, as during the chat tonight, Jeremy dared to utter the phrase that no cyclist should say on tour - "We haven't had any punctures yet..." Probably time to check those repair kits, lads!
Everyone seemed pretty cheerful tonight. There's a real sense that after today, everything is do-able. They were also happily esconced in a Cafebar, tucking into a pre-dinner dinner and a few beers. The food was very welcome, as the guys have been finding the French late dining hour rather taxing. It was also a bit of a celebration, as tonight will be Roy's last night as group support, and everyone wants to let him know how much they appreciate him standing in at the last minute. Huge thanks from us at home too - it's been good to know that they have a bit of a safety net, even if they haven't needed a broom wagon so far! Sian - John C's wife will be the new Roy for the rest of the trip, and again the group is really grateful that she was willing to step in at such a late stage.
It will be all change for the group as Pete, (brother of John H) and Pete's son Ant, will be also coming to the area for a spot of walking & trouble making, redezvousing with the cyclists in the evenings. I'd advise them to meet the guys bearing patiserries if they want a good reception at the end of a ride!
Friday 14 September 2007
Day 5 - Trip to Gavarnie
Tracey again stringing together Jeremy's pre-dinner ramblings.
Although today was billed as a "sightseeing day", the guys still managed to do over 1000m of climbing and cycle 59km.
The group began the days cycling by heading up the Gorge de Lutz. This is fairly broad compared to some gorges, but no less spectacular. They arrived in Lutz quite quickly, and as this was the hotel location for the night, they dropped off their stuff, and then set out for Gavarnie, This meant that they gained a member, as Week 1 support driver, Roy accompanied them on the spare bike*. This sudden introduction to the Pyrennes wouldn't work for everyone, but Roy, who is John C's brother-in-law, is pretty fit, though he usually prefers to use his legs without wheels. He will soon be competing in the Great North Run, so today's cycling should be good cross-training.
The aim of the side trip was to see the Cirque de Gavarnie but the weather had other ideas and it stayed out of sight in the clouds. Those with more off-road capable bikes tried going a little higher on a track, but didn't have any better luck.
It sounds as if the high point of the trip, was actually on the way down. Fortified by a hot chocolate break, the five managed the 20km run back to the hotel (even with a head-wind) in 25mins!
Tomorrow is the day that everyone has been looking forward to and dreading at the same time. It will take in the Col de Tourmalet. I asked Jeremy why it's such a challenge and was told, "It's just BIG, you know?!" - I think he may have been channeling Gag Halfrunt** - though it could have been pre-meal low blood sugar... Anyway. Col de T is steep, and generally huge - 2115m at the top. It's nearly always featured in the Tour de France - providing lovely footage of how wrecked riders as they get to the top. After the fearsome Col de Tourmalet, they also have to face 2 more big climbs - Col d'Aspin and the Pic.
It all sounds pretty formidable, but this will be the most difficult day - if they make it, that's the worst over with.
*Spare bike for John C and Paul. Doesn't fit Jeremy or John H - they just have to be VERY careful!
**Sorry - "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" reference.
Although today was billed as a "sightseeing day", the guys still managed to do over 1000m of climbing and cycle 59km.
The group began the days cycling by heading up the Gorge de Lutz. This is fairly broad compared to some gorges, but no less spectacular. They arrived in Lutz quite quickly, and as this was the hotel location for the night, they dropped off their stuff, and then set out for Gavarnie, This meant that they gained a member, as Week 1 support driver, Roy accompanied them on the spare bike*. This sudden introduction to the Pyrennes wouldn't work for everyone, but Roy, who is John C's brother-in-law, is pretty fit, though he usually prefers to use his legs without wheels. He will soon be competing in the Great North Run, so today's cycling should be good cross-training.
The aim of the side trip was to see the Cirque de Gavarnie but the weather had other ideas and it stayed out of sight in the clouds. Those with more off-road capable bikes tried going a little higher on a track, but didn't have any better luck.
It sounds as if the high point of the trip, was actually on the way down. Fortified by a hot chocolate break, the five managed the 20km run back to the hotel (even with a head-wind) in 25mins!
Tomorrow is the day that everyone has been looking forward to and dreading at the same time. It will take in the Col de Tourmalet. I asked Jeremy why it's such a challenge and was told, "It's just BIG, you know?!" - I think he may have been channeling Gag Halfrunt** - though it could have been pre-meal low blood sugar... Anyway. Col de T is steep, and generally huge - 2115m at the top. It's nearly always featured in the Tour de France - providing lovely footage of how wrecked riders as they get to the top. After the fearsome Col de Tourmalet, they also have to face 2 more big climbs - Col d'Aspin and the Pic.
It all sounds pretty formidable, but this will be the most difficult day - if they make it, that's the worst over with.
*Spare bike for John C and Paul. Doesn't fit Jeremy or John H - they just have to be VERY careful!
**Sorry - "Hitchhiker's Guide to the Galaxy" reference.
Thursday 13 September 2007
Day 4 - the "circle of death" + First Everest!
Tracey continues her mission to extract news from Jeremy when he'd rather be eating his dinner...
Today was "bloody hard" - but not as hard as yesterday. Hopefully that's positive?!
The guys did another 100km today - it could have been a little shorter, but it included a 1.5km detour to look at the Cirque de Lescun - the peak above the town. Sounds like it was spectacular and well worth the extra trip.
Frist the group had to go North so they could go over the Col de Marie Blanque. This climb is notorious because of that lovely increase in slope as you get near the top, but was actually not as bad as yesterday's long and unrelenting climb. I wasn't sure if Jeremy sounded just a touch disappointed that the monster didn't have quite the teeth they expected!
The next section featured 16km of continuous climbing up to the Col d'Aubisque, though at "gentler" slopes than the previous killer climbs. When the first 2 members of the party reached the top of that one, they realised there was a big storm coming at them. The road there is on a narrow ledge set into the side of the cliff, with the odd tunnel, spectacular to cycle, but not a good place to get caught doing a descent in bad weather. That meant that by the time John H arrived, he only had time for the absolute minimum break before they had to head off to try to beat the worst of it, but he soldiered on gamely. To add insult to injury, as John C took pic of support-driver Roy at top of the Aubisque. on of the horses in the field behind him pinched his emergency banana from his back pocket!
The last col of the day, Col de Solour, was actually still on the cliff-top ride, so the guys didn't have to go through the entire pain that reaching the top of a 1474m can provide. However they discovered that it would have been possible to give themselves a bit more of a workout as when they got there, they met up with 2 women and a man who had just cycled up to the peak by all 3 of the approach roads it had to offer, all on the same day! That meant that the trio had made 3000m of climb and done over 100km of cycling, just for a bit of a jolly. The guys were also somewhat chastened when they saw that the other group were clearly in their late forties or early fifties. Clearly living near mountains keeps you young!
Sounds like this evening was quite cushy, as the group are in a posh hotel that does "amuse bouches" between courses, and the chef provided a special pasta dish because they were cyclists! Even more luxury as Jeremy and Paul had massage sessions with 2 sports physios (both male, I was assured!), one of whom works with Tour de France cyclists. The other two decided rest would do them more good.
Tomorrow is a bit easier - only 60km on the road and less strenuous ups. This is actuallly billed on the itinerary as a "sightseeing day" and will give them a "rest" before the infamous Col de Tormalet on Saturday.
The 2400m of climbing the guys did today takes them past 10,000m total climbing so far - so that's the first Everest already in the bag! Congratulations guys - and all without the aid of oxygen!
Today was "bloody hard" - but not as hard as yesterday. Hopefully that's positive?!
The guys did another 100km today - it could have been a little shorter, but it included a 1.5km detour to look at the Cirque de Lescun - the peak above the town. Sounds like it was spectacular and well worth the extra trip.
Frist the group had to go North so they could go over the Col de Marie Blanque. This climb is notorious because of that lovely increase in slope as you get near the top, but was actually not as bad as yesterday's long and unrelenting climb. I wasn't sure if Jeremy sounded just a touch disappointed that the monster didn't have quite the teeth they expected!
The next section featured 16km of continuous climbing up to the Col d'Aubisque, though at "gentler" slopes than the previous killer climbs. When the first 2 members of the party reached the top of that one, they realised there was a big storm coming at them. The road there is on a narrow ledge set into the side of the cliff, with the odd tunnel, spectacular to cycle, but not a good place to get caught doing a descent in bad weather. That meant that by the time John H arrived, he only had time for the absolute minimum break before they had to head off to try to beat the worst of it, but he soldiered on gamely. To add insult to injury, as John C took pic of support-driver Roy at top of the Aubisque. on of the horses in the field behind him pinched his emergency banana from his back pocket!
The last col of the day, Col de Solour, was actually still on the cliff-top ride, so the guys didn't have to go through the entire pain that reaching the top of a 1474m can provide. However they discovered that it would have been possible to give themselves a bit more of a workout as when they got there, they met up with 2 women and a man who had just cycled up to the peak by all 3 of the approach roads it had to offer, all on the same day! That meant that the trio had made 3000m of climb and done over 100km of cycling, just for a bit of a jolly. The guys were also somewhat chastened when they saw that the other group were clearly in their late forties or early fifties. Clearly living near mountains keeps you young!
Sounds like this evening was quite cushy, as the group are in a posh hotel that does "amuse bouches" between courses, and the chef provided a special pasta dish because they were cyclists! Even more luxury as Jeremy and Paul had massage sessions with 2 sports physios (both male, I was assured!), one of whom works with Tour de France cyclists. The other two decided rest would do them more good.
Tomorrow is a bit easier - only 60km on the road and less strenuous ups. This is actuallly billed on the itinerary as a "sightseeing day" and will give them a "rest" before the infamous Col de Tormalet on Saturday.
The 2400m of climbing the guys did today takes them past 10,000m total climbing so far - so that's the first Everest already in the bag! Congratulations guys - and all without the aid of oxygen!
Wednesday 12 September 2007
Day 3 & second "official" foray into Spain
Tracey fielding Jeremy's report from the bat phone...
I had a moderately surreal call with Jeremy tonight. As he stood in the street in Lescun to get a mobile signal, the conversation was constantly punctuated by, "hey, the bats here are amazing", "there's loads of bats", "they're flying about all over the place" etc. I guess there were quite a few bats!
Sounds like today was stunning in several ways. First that morning climb mentioned in yesterday's blog entry. Apparently it was every bit as hard as they expected, enlivened slightly by wall to wall ETA slogans painted all over the road, especially as they started out. They went through 4 distinctly different types of scenery, including their longest section in Spain so far, which was amongst coniferous forest and much enjoyed. The scenery was the best yet (and no doubt a good excuse for lots of "picture stops"). Part of the route was on the Tour de France for the first time this year, so the ETA slogans gave way to names of teams and star riders, which must have been quite a lift for the guys.
Today's stats - 101km travelled - with 2950m of climbing. Heighest pass - 1750m, 10 hours of cycling.
This means they have consistently done more climbing than they estimated they would - looks like the 2 Everests target won't be hard to reach in one way!
Jeremy reports that it was the hardest day of cycling he has ever done (and bear in mind he pretty much carried a morning-sickness ridden wife over the Massif Central when we did our tandem tour there!). His knee was a bit dodgy on the first climb of the day, but he was pleased to report that he finished the day strongly. Every one is fairly shattered, John has declared himself officially "knackered". All are aware that they are going to hurt tomorrow, however, this was due to be the longest section of the trip, and they knew in advance it would be one of the tougher days, so if they've managed to survive, it bodes well for the rest of the trip, especially as no obvious physical problems have emerged yet (and yes, I'm typing with my fingers crossed whilst touching wood!).
Tomorrow will also have some serious climbs, though should hopefully be a bit easier. Highlights include the Col de Marie Blanque - which is part of the "Circle of Death" (eek!) - and, delightfully for the cyclist, gets steeper as you near the top of the climb!
I had a moderately surreal call with Jeremy tonight. As he stood in the street in Lescun to get a mobile signal, the conversation was constantly punctuated by, "hey, the bats here are amazing", "there's loads of bats", "they're flying about all over the place" etc. I guess there were quite a few bats!
Sounds like today was stunning in several ways. First that morning climb mentioned in yesterday's blog entry. Apparently it was every bit as hard as they expected, enlivened slightly by wall to wall ETA slogans painted all over the road, especially as they started out. They went through 4 distinctly different types of scenery, including their longest section in Spain so far, which was amongst coniferous forest and much enjoyed. The scenery was the best yet (and no doubt a good excuse for lots of "picture stops"). Part of the route was on the Tour de France for the first time this year, so the ETA slogans gave way to names of teams and star riders, which must have been quite a lift for the guys.
Today's stats - 101km travelled - with 2950m of climbing. Heighest pass - 1750m, 10 hours of cycling.
This means they have consistently done more climbing than they estimated they would - looks like the 2 Everests target won't be hard to reach in one way!
Jeremy reports that it was the hardest day of cycling he has ever done (and bear in mind he pretty much carried a morning-sickness ridden wife over the Massif Central when we did our tandem tour there!). His knee was a bit dodgy on the first climb of the day, but he was pleased to report that he finished the day strongly. Every one is fairly shattered, John has declared himself officially "knackered". All are aware that they are going to hurt tomorrow, however, this was due to be the longest section of the trip, and they knew in advance it would be one of the tougher days, so if they've managed to survive, it bodes well for the rest of the trip, especially as no obvious physical problems have emerged yet (and yes, I'm typing with my fingers crossed whilst touching wood!).
Tomorrow will also have some serious climbs, though should hopefully be a bit easier. Highlights include the Col de Marie Blanque - which is part of the "Circle of Death" (eek!) - and, delightfully for the cyclist, gets steeper as you near the top of the climb!
Tuesday 11 September 2007
News from day 2.
Tracey reporting again for Jeremy.
Apparently today was quite a wake up call for the guys. It was really hard work it's clear that they have entered the Pyrennes proper - no foothills, just bigger mountains now.... but the views are fantastic!
The rough statistics for today - climbed 1700m - cycled 58km. - 4km of climbing was on 11% road.
The long climb was exceptionally hard. All the guys have climbed steeper, but not for as long! Photo stops became frequent and required lots of shots to be taken! "We're not resting, we just have to capture this amazing view..."
They are now in Larrau, a beautiful little village nestled in amongst high mountains peaks, staying in a very pleasant hotel (on the Grande Route 10, so popular with walkers). Everything is still very green and lush though it's likely to get drier and more barren as they go further East.
Despite the taste of long, steep climbing, everyone survived in pretty good form, which is just as well, because tomorrow they have to cycle 7km up an 11%+ slope, first thing after breakfast.
Good luck guys!
Apparently today was quite a wake up call for the guys. It was really hard work it's clear that they have entered the Pyrennes proper - no foothills, just bigger mountains now.... but the views are fantastic!
The rough statistics for today - climbed 1700m - cycled 58km. - 4km of climbing was on 11% road.
The long climb was exceptionally hard. All the guys have climbed steeper, but not for as long! Photo stops became frequent and required lots of shots to be taken! "We're not resting, we just have to capture this amazing view..."
They are now in Larrau, a beautiful little village nestled in amongst high mountains peaks, staying in a very pleasant hotel (on the Grande Route 10, so popular with walkers). Everything is still very green and lush though it's likely to get drier and more barren as they go further East.
Despite the taste of long, steep climbing, everyone survived in pretty good form, which is just as well, because tomorrow they have to cycle 7km up an 11%+ slope, first thing after breakfast.
Good luck guys!
Monday 10 September 2007
News from end of day one
Tracey reporting for Jeremy.
Apparently the guys had a good day today. They cycled 79km which included 1450m of climbing, including 2 really hard climbs. They got some beautiful views (which no doubt will have been photographed a lot!) and it sounds like they all feel pretty good, although their bodies are reminding them of what they've just done.
They are a bit nervous of tomorrow - which promises some hard climbing. Fingers crossed!
Apparently the guys had a good day today. They cycled 79km which included 1450m of climbing, including 2 really hard climbs. They got some beautiful views (which no doubt will have been photographed a lot!) and it sounds like they all feel pretty good, although their bodies are reminding them of what they've just done.
They are a bit nervous of tomorrow - which promises some hard climbing. Fingers crossed!
Sunday 9 September 2007
Warm-up day
We had decided that after all the travel, we should have a warm-up day so that everyone could work the aches and pains from the travel out of their systems before we started the ride proper. This would also have given us a spare day should there have been any unexpected problems.
The day started with a mix of blue sky and cloud. Breakfast was consumed with enthusiasm whilst we discussed possible routes for the day. We needed something not too tough but still a bit testing, and decided on a route heading towards Espelette - famous for its peppers (which are ripe around now). We set off on the N10 straight into a long moderate climb. It being a Sunday the traffic was light, so we reached St Jean-de-Luz without incident. This is a picturesque town (it was too dark to tell when Jeremy had been here the day before) and there were plenty of food shops open for us to stock up on banannas and nectarines. We set out following the Nivelle river with views across to the mountain that is considered one of the first proper Pyrenees, 'La Rhune'. This mountain dominated our horizon for most of the day, and is marked by a radio mast and building at the top - there's something a bit 'James Bond' about it ...
Turning off at Ascain (to look for a Roman bridge that we didn't find) we changed our minds about the route and decided to go over the Col de St Ignace (169 m) to Sare. Although a tidler of a climb by Pyrennean standards, it was nice to get a taste of Col climbing. From the Col there is a rack-and-pinion railway up to the top of La Rhune. The descent to Sare was fine and brought us quickly in to Sare. Here we were greeted by a fete (apparently part of a 3 day festival). A band of pipers (playing shrill oboe-like instruments) and drummers were accompanying a set of huge mannequins dressed as a King, Queen and various other characters up the hill into the village. The mannequins consisted of a wooden frame, upon which was perched a papier mache head and adorned with the cloth representing the clothess. Inside the frame of this heavy 10-12ft mannequin a poor soul carried the whole mannequin, even more remarkable beacuse they spun them around reguarly. In the crowded centre of the village a game of pelota was also being played, all part of the carnival atmosphere, and further drummers and pipers played accompanied by a conductor with a mace.
As the village was so full, there was no chance of a quiet lunch, so we headed on a bit looking for a good place for a picnic. As is so often the case on cycling trips, we failed, ending up in a bus-shelter. We then headed back past Sare towards the Col de Lizuniaga (250 m), finding many picnic spots of great beauty straight away - again, this is typical of cycling trips. The climb was a bit more strenuous than the earlier one, but again quite easy by future standards. A quick stop for a drink (orange juice, honest) at the summit Cafe (now in Spain) we then had a great descent with a really good road, overtaking on the way the slowest motorcyclist in Europe (approx. 10 mph down hill). The village of Bora de Bidasoa was picturesque and deserted (siesta?), but the road out was the roughest so far.
We then headed down the Bidasoa valley. This is a main road and our planned route for Day 1. But we don't like the look of it. There are a lot of road-works going on and even though it is a Sunday, the road is quite busy. It is also narrow, bound by the river on one side and steep valley sides on the other. After arriving back at Hendaye we discuss the options for the route. It will be changed - instead of using this road, we decide to repeat some of todays route (as far as Sare) and then head on over Puerto de Otxondo, at 670 m only 2 m lower than the planned main col of the day, which we will still be crossing. So, we haven't even started and we are already adding more cols ....
The day started with a mix of blue sky and cloud. Breakfast was consumed with enthusiasm whilst we discussed possible routes for the day. We needed something not too tough but still a bit testing, and decided on a route heading towards Espelette - famous for its peppers (which are ripe around now). We set off on the N10 straight into a long moderate climb. It being a Sunday the traffic was light, so we reached St Jean-de-Luz without incident. This is a picturesque town (it was too dark to tell when Jeremy had been here the day before) and there were plenty of food shops open for us to stock up on banannas and nectarines. We set out following the Nivelle river with views across to the mountain that is considered one of the first proper Pyrenees, 'La Rhune'. This mountain dominated our horizon for most of the day, and is marked by a radio mast and building at the top - there's something a bit 'James Bond' about it ...
Turning off at Ascain (to look for a Roman bridge that we didn't find) we changed our minds about the route and decided to go over the Col de St Ignace (169 m) to Sare. Although a tidler of a climb by Pyrennean standards, it was nice to get a taste of Col climbing. From the Col there is a rack-and-pinion railway up to the top of La Rhune. The descent to Sare was fine and brought us quickly in to Sare. Here we were greeted by a fete (apparently part of a 3 day festival). A band of pipers (playing shrill oboe-like instruments) and drummers were accompanying a set of huge mannequins dressed as a King, Queen and various other characters up the hill into the village. The mannequins consisted of a wooden frame, upon which was perched a papier mache head and adorned with the cloth representing the clothess. Inside the frame of this heavy 10-12ft mannequin a poor soul carried the whole mannequin, even more remarkable beacuse they spun them around reguarly. In the crowded centre of the village a game of pelota was also being played, all part of the carnival atmosphere, and further drummers and pipers played accompanied by a conductor with a mace.
As the village was so full, there was no chance of a quiet lunch, so we headed on a bit looking for a good place for a picnic. As is so often the case on cycling trips, we failed, ending up in a bus-shelter. We then headed back past Sare towards the Col de Lizuniaga (250 m), finding many picnic spots of great beauty straight away - again, this is typical of cycling trips. The climb was a bit more strenuous than the earlier one, but again quite easy by future standards. A quick stop for a drink (orange juice, honest) at the summit Cafe (now in Spain) we then had a great descent with a really good road, overtaking on the way the slowest motorcyclist in Europe (approx. 10 mph down hill). The village of Bora de Bidasoa was picturesque and deserted (siesta?), but the road out was the roughest so far.
We then headed down the Bidasoa valley. This is a main road and our planned route for Day 1. But we don't like the look of it. There are a lot of road-works going on and even though it is a Sunday, the road is quite busy. It is also narrow, bound by the river on one side and steep valley sides on the other. After arriving back at Hendaye we discuss the options for the route. It will be changed - instead of using this road, we decide to repeat some of todays route (as far as Sare) and then head on over Puerto de Otxondo, at 670 m only 2 m lower than the planned main col of the day, which we will still be crossing. So, we haven't even started and we are already adding more cols ....
Travel to Hendaye
I took the relatively easy option of travelling by plane from Stansted to Biaritz. But I did need to get to Paul's house in Kent first, which meant travelling by train and tube from Gloucestershire equipped with a huge bag, a rucsac and a spare tyre around my neck - my shoulders still ache even two days later - but it was straightforward compared to JR, John C and Roy. I even got given £5 sponsorship by a chap at the railway station. John H
We had the job of bringing the support vehicle, loaded with four bikes and most of the team's luggage, from Norfolk, via Dover and Calais, to Hendaye for the start. The total distance driven amounted to 893 miles at an average of 61 mph in 14 hours 47 minutes plus rest stops. Sharing the driving meant the journey was surprisingly uneventful on the mostly excellent French roads. Apart, that is, from a detour into Rouen at the behest of the satnav. John C and Roy.
As previously recorded, my journey started on Thursday evening on the Sleeper down to London. Arriving in the early morning I managed a quick and uneventful ride across London, stopping only to view the early sun over the Thames. Apart from getting slightly lost at Waterloo station, I managed to send the bike off to Paris from the Eurostar dispatch witout a hitch. The Eurostar terminal was packed with those travelling to see the opening match of the Rugby world cup - but my train was booked for later in the day, so I managed to spend a relaxed morning and Lunch with my brother (Andy) before catching my train. Eurostar was fine and smooth. Arrived in Paris Gare du Nord and spent an anxious 20 minutes trying to find the point to pick up the bike. Eventially found it and much to my relief it was there! On emerging from the pick-up-point there was a fly-by from the French version of the Red Arrows - don't know who told them I was there! Then I had to cycle across Paris, in the dark, with an inadequate Map. II made it OK, but it took a while.... Gare de Austerlitz was full of people waiting fro the various 'Corail Lunea' services running from there. We were allowed on about 45 minutes before departure and I was glad to find my bunk was right next to the bike compartment. The night was comfortable enough, but I didn't sleep much. I de-trained at St Jean-de-Luz in the dark, found an open Patisserie for breakfast and then pedalled (with full load) along the 'Corniche Basque' road to Hendaye as the sun was rising, arriving at about 8:30 am on Saturday morning, almost exactly 36 hours after leaving Aberdeen. Jeremy.
We had the job of bringing the support vehicle, loaded with four bikes and most of the team's luggage, from Norfolk, via Dover and Calais, to Hendaye for the start. The total distance driven amounted to 893 miles at an average of 61 mph in 14 hours 47 minutes plus rest stops. Sharing the driving meant the journey was surprisingly uneventful on the mostly excellent French roads. Apart, that is, from a detour into Rouen at the behest of the satnav. John C and Roy.
As previously recorded, my journey started on Thursday evening on the Sleeper down to London. Arriving in the early morning I managed a quick and uneventful ride across London, stopping only to view the early sun over the Thames. Apart from getting slightly lost at Waterloo station, I managed to send the bike off to Paris from the Eurostar dispatch witout a hitch. The Eurostar terminal was packed with those travelling to see the opening match of the Rugby world cup - but my train was booked for later in the day, so I managed to spend a relaxed morning and Lunch with my brother (Andy) before catching my train. Eurostar was fine and smooth. Arrived in Paris Gare du Nord and spent an anxious 20 minutes trying to find the point to pick up the bike. Eventially found it and much to my relief it was there! On emerging from the pick-up-point there was a fly-by from the French version of the Red Arrows - don't know who told them I was there! Then I had to cycle across Paris, in the dark, with an inadequate Map. II made it OK, but it took a while.... Gare de Austerlitz was full of people waiting fro the various 'Corail Lunea' services running from there. We were allowed on about 45 minutes before departure and I was glad to find my bunk was right next to the bike compartment. The night was comfortable enough, but I didn't sleep much. I de-trained at St Jean-de-Luz in the dark, found an open Patisserie for breakfast and then pedalled (with full load) along the 'Corniche Basque' road to Hendaye as the sun was rising, arriving at about 8:30 am on Saturday morning, almost exactly 36 hours after leaving Aberdeen. Jeremy.
Friday 7 September 2007
So far so good
This is JR here, sitting in the Eurostar terminat waiting for the Paris Train. Sleeper down from Aberdeen was good - actually got some sleep. Of course the first thing that happened when arriving to get on the train was that I managed to flip one lense of my cycling glasses off on to the track... Then there was a small frisson of excitement when the guard said I was sharing with a lady. Tracey was worried, and indeed it did turn out to be a blonde - but it was a bloke...
Arrived at Waterloo after a rapid and fairly easy ride across London. Got a bit lost at the station but finally managed to get to the dispatch place for the bike. No problem here - bike is allocated a ticket with an expected arrival time. It should be ready and waiting for me.
Just called the train to board, so here I go ..
Arrived at Waterloo after a rapid and fairly easy ride across London. Got a bit lost at the station but finally managed to get to the dispatch place for the bike. No problem here - bike is allocated a ticket with an expected arrival time. It should be ready and waiting for me.
Just called the train to board, so here I go ..
Sunday 2 September 2007
Another member of the team ready to go ...
Like JR, the departure seems imminent. Although I leave on Friday (staging via Paul's in Kent), rather than Thursday, and then fly to Biaritz on Saturday 8th Sept. My bike has already left home, in order to put it in the support car which is in Norfolk! - The logistics are rather complex - So my last months traning has been on my other bike, with a different saddle and handlebar setup. Oh well, I'm sure I'll get used to the other one again soon!
John
John
Last week of preparation
Well, here it is - the last week before we are due to depart. For me this feels iminent, because, as I am travelling from Aberdeen to the start of the ride (at Hendaye) by Train, I have chosen to leave on the Thursday night sleeper. This will get me to Hendaye on Saturday morning after taking another sleeper from Paris.
But, and it's a big but, it is the daytime trip London - Paris on the Eurostar that worries me. This is beacause, whilst on the sleepers I will travel with my bike, on the Eurostar I have to send it on ahead. Being a 'worst case scenarion' man, this is giving me a serious case of the colliwobbles. If my bike doesn't turn up in Paris on time, I will miss my sleeper, and everything becomes very complicated.
So, here's hoping.
JR
But, and it's a big but, it is the daytime trip London - Paris on the Eurostar that worries me. This is beacause, whilst on the sleepers I will travel with my bike, on the Eurostar I have to send it on ahead. Being a 'worst case scenarion' man, this is giving me a serious case of the colliwobbles. If my bike doesn't turn up in Paris on time, I will miss my sleeper, and everything becomes very complicated.
So, here's hoping.
JR
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