Urge 3 Peaks Enduro
The sport of enduro riding is growing all the time and I thought that I could use the weekend as a promotion for the enduro's we are running on Coronet Peak this year. So I borrowed a Giant Trance 27.5 Enduro bike from R & R Sports (thanks team) and bundled myself of on Friday morning to Dunedin and the Octagon where the registration was.
I was on time to register and avoided the queue - 220 racers for this event. And many from Queenstown - so I felt quite at home and I registered alongside Kate Fluker (26yrs old) - just a slight age difference but we chose to ignore that fact and I enjoyed the company of the Queenstown locals later for dinner.
But first is the Urban section of the is race. Mmm - the talk is of tricky stair ways and stuff, so I go unload the bike and head up the hill to look at the course and ride slowly though. It starts out of a school grounds - down a steep gassy bank. I crept down it in the race with all brakes on, while the front runners were pedaling hard down it into the exit through the school gates. Well not quite pedaling but certainly there were no brakes applied.
After that the course dropped down some stairs to turn hard right at the bottom into a small tunnel before emerging up a ramp into Otago Girls High. Again out through the gates and heading for the Dowling Street steps. Well that is fine - don't mine steps - after all I have ridden the ones outside Lonestar, but these are different. Twice they turn 180 degrees on themselves and I can't make it around. In the race I almost fall down the second flight - so I’m off and running as the quickest way to get around the corners - out onto Princess street and a sprint (on the bike) along to the Octagon and around Robbie Burns and down a small flight of steps into the finish line
I'm about 2.28 secs or so and the quick ones go under 2mins and clock over 60kms hr down one of the roads into the tunnel.
So day one survived - only 5th out of 6 in the class of Masters Mens 3, so not to bad and that sets the tone for the race. (beaten by .38 of a sec out of 4th)
Day 2 (Sat) in Dunedin dawns fine and sunny (yahoo - dry track) and off to the top of Three Mile hill and the Bull Pen for the start briefing.
The start list is published here and of course reporting time for briefing is 0900 with my start time is 11.15 so I am facing a long wait Lucky it is a nice day and there are good friend to talk to. The lead riders depart as briefing finishes - well they probably finish before I even get started.
Slowly it comes around to my time to start - but start it isn't - its just the climb to the start and at the actual start - on top of the hill there is still another 30 mins or waiting.
Finally it's time - full face helmet on - click in and away. (it's only half way down the hill that I remember a few other things,
drop the seat down - got that.
2. adjust the front forks to + or racing - the most absorption you can get.
3. adjust the back suspension to - downhill, or absorb all those bump.
Ah well I am used to a hard tail - it's only been a year or two since that was all I rode. Whoahl - now it's easier and as the confidence builds I pick up the pace a bit.
The first part is easy as we roll along the tops pedaling to carry some speed - not yet racing at full noise and waiting to see what is coming as the gradient increase’s. Sure enough as I rip around a blind corner I'm faced with a boulder field - but now I'm onto it - drop the seat down - relax let it run a bit and the rocks are behind and the pace picks up again.
Perhaps to much as lower down I must grab a bit much front brake and the front washes out immediately and bang - my face is hard on the ground as the first point of contact. In a flash I’m up - googles twisted inside the full face helmet - but that's it - nothing else - no scatches on elbows or anywhere but thanks for the full face - thats for sure.
Down in the forest the tracks turns left and right and left and there are other riders around - that means I've caught some - a couple down a bank, more on the ground - caught by a tree stump. I stop as the unscramble themselves and go to push of, but the bike doesn’t move, I do and I’m on the ground again. But not moving - so just pick myself up - squeeze past the others and away. A small uphill leads to the finishes and clock off. 18 mins and nine seconds and now I'm hot. Stage one done.
Full face off - pack that on the backpack - xc helmet on - a splash of water and away we go allowing the air to cool me down.
Didn't know what to expect next but we are directed back into the forest for some more twisty single track but no hurry now. Out onto a road and begin climbing, and climbing, and climbing. Across the motorway and into some paddocks. When we leave those paddocks the real climbing begins. The road up to Mt Cargill. The engineer who designed that one was not european for sure - no zig zags. Three kms straight up as far as the eye can see - all at or about 15-18% and I'm on a 1 by with chain guard, but it's more my countryside and I'm passing lots of people who are just crawling up the hill.
Finally the top of my Cargill - the highest point around here and being coastal with a good strong southerly blowing - it's not the best place in the world to hang out. That liaison, or ride between stages is about 1hr 30mins.
In fact why are we waiting at all - with starts every 20secs back over on Flagstaff we should just roil up - get suited up - knee pads / helmet / elbow pads and go - but the medical crew are not in place and everyone has had to wait for about half hour and cool down a bit.
Time to chat and to wander over to the edge and look at the first corner - after watching thirty or so attempt and seeing only two actually make it my start involves running the first 10 meters and lifting the bike around before mounting. But it's only 100 meters or so later that ‘THE STAIRS' appear - be brave ok - just take the launching ramp straight into the top of them and sTop - not likely for me. Off the bike climb over the stile / launching ramp and run down the three lots of stairs - rough wooden off angle / broken twisted stairs.
Of course the big boys - or is that the young boys - launch - grab a bit of brake to control the entry and bounce the eyeballs out on the way down - lucky the googles hold then in and they continue - maybe a dab her and there with a toe but most ride clean (from what I hear. later)
On the bike again and there is still a boulder field or two but confidence is good and I ride - that suspension is working on the Trance and later I see that I used all of it at some stage. But it nice riding. Conrod Straight - highest speed down some single track - at out 59 - 50kms hr - me, probably about 30 or so.
Down into the trees - well low Dunedin bush - ducking under the occasional low branch - bouncing through boulders and a couple damp spots. In one I'm following close a guy from The Menace team (Wellington) and I hear a loud 'SHIT' and I put my foot down to watch whats about to happen - well it ends up being nothing but he was very close to having a nasty fall onto some big rocks. Balance, good luck and the hand of god save him.
I follow and pick my way through and follow him as hard as I can - this is good I'm keeping up but I brake once to often and he is suddenly gone - like he found another gear or something.
This stage soon empties out onto the flats and a couple hundred meters of high speed shingle road before we slide to a halt to get the timing chip read.
14mins 43secs.
Yahoo - some food and drink - a couple banana halfs and a couple glasses of water - change the gear around and away. Wonder how long this liaison is ? But I know from time in Dunedin that it an't be so bad. Iin the end it's just 30 - 40 mins to the top of Signal Hill.
It rains a bit on the climb - not enough to wet the track but with no one at the top waiting I’m keen to go. I know where I am going now - I’ve been here to watch the downhill riders in a National series a year or so ago.
What !! What am I doing here riding the same track the same rock gardens that had seemed almost impossible then, but I have no trouble on any of it - albeit a bit slower than some. I do get tangled up wit the tandem riders. I had stopped to let them past and then they didn't, and then they did, and then they stopped in front of me, and then they went. Yes that was tandem - this couple ride there double bike well (they have entered for the Super D and and the Mega in the Bike Fest) It's very impressive the way the ride and what they can ride.
A quick sprint on grass and gravel and I'm looking for the line - but wait - there more - we zig zag our way throughout he outside corridors of the school - left and right - down and up stars, before down the last stairway to the finish. Stop get the time recorded and get out of the way for the next rider.
My time overall is 45.20secs, Jamie Nichol, the winner 27.57
Three riders are inside the same minute. Justin Leov second and Anton Cooper third. I'm also well beaten by all the local girls who ride extremely well (of course I knew that was going to be the case before I started anyway)
So after the first enduro that I competed in. Would I do it again ?
Yes is the answer (and in fact Dave Drew, Wayne Olds and Al Clifford will be joining me)
Monday, December 9, 2013
Thursday, October 10, 2013
Sept 17th Day 9 Beuil - col de Turini
Beuil - Col de Turini
The trip notes read - from Beuil ‘descend Gorge de Cian’ but the hotel manager who had recommended that route from the previous occasion tells us that the Gorge de Cian is undergoing repairs and that we will not be able to use it. So a little bit of re-planning and we climb back out over the col we had ridden so briskly the day before. Only a few kms before descending back onto route.
We climb a cliff side road up and onto the Col St-Martin and the ski resort of Colmaine. I have a issue with a split in the tire and leigh manages to pinch flat a couple before we get one to work. By this time the rest have gone down to lunch in Saint-Martin-Vesubie where we catch them.
The day is to finish on the hill top of the Col de Turini and during the clothing and photo stops on the way up Mike slips away (looking for a col to put his name on) But it doesn’t go un-noticed and JR, Dave and Geoff follow at a distance.
The road twists it way up a hill side like a snake - climbing steadily. A logging truck descends, blowing loudly on his horn as he approaches the corners. We give him room, but he uses every inch of the corners and he is not a big truck.
Climbing steadily with Mike ahead. Dave goes up to him and then JR and I follow, and we begin a old ‘one two’ on Mike.
He is climbing really well and does not respond - so we lift the pace a fraction at a time but we don’t shake him, and suddenly I spie a building ahead, but Mike does as well. No one says anything but I do drop back and give Dave a wink and point, so we are aware of where we are. Suddenly Mike attacks but Dave jumps hard and with me on his tail we open 50 meters instantly and now the col is apparent - another few pedal strokes and we crest the Col de Turini with Mike now 100 meters back.
We all are smiles - Mike, JR, Dave and myself as all have enjoyed the game and the ride.
We circle a couple of times talking to the motor bike boys while the others come up and then check into the hotel. Mtn top finish today can only mean one thing - it’s downhill to Nice tomorrow.
The trip notes read - from Beuil ‘descend Gorge de Cian’ but the hotel manager who had recommended that route from the previous occasion tells us that the Gorge de Cian is undergoing repairs and that we will not be able to use it. So a little bit of re-planning and we climb back out over the col we had ridden so briskly the day before. Only a few kms before descending back onto route.
We climb a cliff side road up and onto the Col St-Martin and the ski resort of Colmaine. I have a issue with a split in the tire and leigh manages to pinch flat a couple before we get one to work. By this time the rest have gone down to lunch in Saint-Martin-Vesubie where we catch them.
The day is to finish on the hill top of the Col de Turini and during the clothing and photo stops on the way up Mike slips away (looking for a col to put his name on) But it doesn’t go un-noticed and JR, Dave and Geoff follow at a distance.
The road twists it way up a hill side like a snake - climbing steadily. A logging truck descends, blowing loudly on his horn as he approaches the corners. We give him room, but he uses every inch of the corners and he is not a big truck.
Climbing steadily with Mike ahead. Dave goes up to him and then JR and I follow, and we begin a old ‘one two’ on Mike.
He is climbing really well and does not respond - so we lift the pace a fraction at a time but we don’t shake him, and suddenly I spie a building ahead, but Mike does as well. No one says anything but I do drop back and give Dave a wink and point, so we are aware of where we are. Suddenly Mike attacks but Dave jumps hard and with me on his tail we open 50 meters instantly and now the col is apparent - another few pedal strokes and we crest the Col de Turini with Mike now 100 meters back.
We all are smiles - Mike, JR, Dave and myself as all have enjoyed the game and the ride.
We circle a couple of times talking to the motor bike boys while the others come up and then check into the hotel. Mtn top finish today can only mean one thing - it’s downhill to Nice tomorrow.
Wednesday, September 25, 2013
Rural Wandering
No group plans as everyone has ideas for this own last day, and at what time etc etc
Leigh ends up riding into Spain through the tunnel d’aragnouet-Bielsa, JR and Leslie spin down the valley to Arreau for a coffee and return, Dave goes up to Pla d'Adet above town, and I take a rural spin that starts with the col Azet above town.
One hour straight up at 8%, then down the other side and by staying on the country roads it is quiet.
Turn left onto the D218 and all sign of noise disappears. Climbing in forest on a tar single lane road. It’s cool and quiet. But of course it is climbing. Around the shoulder through Ilhan and ascend slowly towards Grailhen.
Only see 4 cars in the total ride (and two of them are the same car passing twice)
The route is along a balcony above the valley of the Neste and the world is all below between the trees. Grailhen is a historic town with cobbles and old building close together.
Along some more, dropping slowly to Azet and then down to town for coffee, tart and quiche.
But there was more - as I rode the balcony I had spotted another small village stuck high in a remote valley on the otherside, and it draws me out of town again. Bt staying of the main roads I get to the base of the access and start up.
I had suspected it might be steep but it was consistently above 12 degrees - I expect it was about15 degrees. Lucky it’s narrow so not much sun as the day is now warm.
Aulon is stuck on a high rock at near the head of the valley, and today is a film site for a French movie. n a break in shooting I climb into town and reward myself with a boule of ice-cream.
It’s literally only several brake burning minutes back to the Saint Lary valley
Tuesday, September 24, 2013
Lake Cap de Long
Is this the best ride in the Pyrenees. We think so.
From Saint Lary Soulan we climb gently up the valley in the cool of the 9 o'clock morning. Gently spinning - JR, Leslie, Dave and myself.
Turn right at Fabian and start climbing the tight little gorge - first on the left and then the right as we climb steadily (that means above 8%) We can’t tell as all computers are down - or is that worn out.
It’s cool and slowly the mtn tops reveal themselves rising high above us. The forest thins and we start coming out into the open - we feel like in high California high country or New Mexico - but no it’s the high Pyrenees.
The first lake appears behind it’s barrage but up ahead is the high wall of the Barrage-de-Cap-de-Long. Impressive. Surrounded by the high peaks with snow remnants in the gullies. The road finally eases and we stop for photos. Already this feels like one of the best rides, but more to come as the road zags back and forth through the high rocky slopes below and alongside the barrage. It’s a pleasure to ride but watch the sheep shit. They are hiding in the shade of the high built-up road terraces. We pop suddenly onto the barrage level - the high mtn lake surrounded by big mountains rising to over 3,000meters.. The lake is at 2161m
I read this story after the ride and agree 100% with everything he writes.
http://www.cycling-challenge.com/lac-de-cap-de-long-and-la-route-des-lacs/
Coffee time. The weathered face of the owner appears in the doorway I ask for a tarte and expresso. A gruff answer. Seems like we will get the service and no more.
How wrong we are. Francis warms to us and we are soon great friends. A couple friendly taps and i’m guided inside to see pictures of Carlos Sastre at the same table as us, the badges that qualify him as a senior UIAGM mtn guide, heli rescue certificate and the big dog Athos that graces the cafe has saved 4 people from avalanches.
We have a great time with him and are shown some of his climbing history - Annapurna, and another mtn in Peru. He brings out his telescope and points it at the high peaks and sure enough on the far peak above the lake are two climbers standing on the summit.
With some reluctance we say good by to Francis and Athos, and he assures us that we must go to Lac d’Aubert as well. Why not. It’s only another 5-6kms of climbing.
But it sure is worthwhile - another stunning lake set high in the mtns surrounded by bare rocky peaks and grassy meadows at their feet. We roll down onto the grass - kick our shoes of and walk into the 17 degree water up to the knees, before curling up in the shelter of some rocks and trees and snoozing for 10 mins or so with tops off.
Holiday riding.
We are again reluctant to leave and peddle slowly away before gravity takes over and we start descending on a closed road back down to the low lake and then back down the bumpy road in the gorge - Watch out for the sheep shit and piss on the road, the occasional rock as well.
14kms later after a couple stops to let the brakes cool and we roll into another roadside cafe for baguette with fromage and jambon before our standard after lunch downhill time trail to home.
The melon, grapes and chocolate pool side was great.
Col d’Aubisque here we come
It’s on the list to tick so we combine transport with Di and Lindsay and at 0830 we are off in the two cars.
Down the valley, up and over the Hourquette d’Ancizan, turn left at Saint-Marie-de- Campan and up the Tourmalet. Easier in the car, and over the top. Once we start descending we remember the floods that hit the valley two weeks before the tour. They had wrecked utter devastation to the valley of the Bastan. It had ripped houses and roads away and a major reconstruction is still under way and it is very slow going down with multiple stoplights.
Once out we turn right (with some confusion) and proceed to find our way to the tiny village of St Savin (my designated start point for the ride over the Aubisque.
The backroads are quiet but a little confusing as we skirt around the shoulder before getting on the main valley road. Everyone is hungry and a small shop provides a snack to get everyone up the Soular - the col that you have to cross to ascend the Aubisque.
In fact the Soular is the main climb - 6 - 8.5% gradient with ramps up to about 15%.
(about 7kms from the flat valley)
A couple cafes of course on top of this pass and a slight dip leads to a balcony road cut into and through the cliffs around towards the col d’Aubisque Still 6km more but all easy climbing and Leigh takes his second col of the day.
A little crowded on top with a large English tour doing a west / east crossing of the Pyrenees. But a chance to take some photos of the three big bikes (JR on top) and then lunch.
The planned route home involved another col but everyone in relaxed mood so it’s decided to simply roll back all the way to the cars.
Leigh scares a motorist on the balcony route back to the Soulor who then stops in the middle of the road for JR and myself. We have to tuck our elbows in on the fly to avoid his wing mirror. He was last seen stationary and unmoving by those at the back - totally traumatized (note : the road is only 1.5 cars wide here)
We roll down the valley in our customary time trial mode before enjoying the quiet back roads back to St Savin and a drive home.
The upper Hourquette is so nice we stop and enjoy the quiet ambiance of the meadows and forest.
Another beautiful day in the Pyrenees
Sunday, September 22, 2013
A day ride in the Pyrenees Just under 6 hrs in the saddle.
A day ride in the Pyrenees
Just under 6 hrs in the saddle.
We left town in the cold of a 9.00 o’clock start in the autumn in the Pyrenees. Leigh with a newspaper stuffed up his front (old style) and the rest of us just cold - knowing that as soon as we hit the climb it is jackets off.
down to Arreau - the start of the Col d’Aspin. This col has been used 69 times in the tour and rises from 704m in Arreau to 1489 at the top of the col in 12km ( a gain of 779m with a average of 6.5% and max of 8%.)
As the group stop to take jackets come off I elect to continue and then later take my off on the fly when i warm up. Riding solo with no maps, just the road signs - 6kms 8.7% to the summit. The signs give the grade for the next km and how far to go so it is easy to gauge effort on the way.
the pedals are turning easy and I continue to tap away up the hill and this sets the tone for the day. I’m enjoying the individual ride and when the top comes, I stop for a few photos of cows wandering around the col, don wind jackets and push off - no sign of the others but everyone knows where they are going.
The climb up Aspin feels very west coast - beach forest on the mountains rising through green pastures to steep mtn tops (or so it seems)
The descent of course is a joy (aren’t they all) -hairpins, flowing open sections, and a long valley descent before turning left towards the col du Tourmalet.
Lots of rides going the other way - ascending the Aspin.
The ascent of the Tourmalet begins deceptively easily through farm yards on gradients of 3.6% and 4% but this changes as we enter the forest areas and the gradient jumps to 8% and stays there. The climb is steady but not really to demanding until it ramps up again to 10%below the ski resort of La Mongie. Perhaps it will flatten through this modern ski station but no - it stays at 10% for the next 5 kms to the top.
At least now you can see to the top - the twists and turns of the top zig zags. Quite a lot of mtn bikers on the tar - the first time we have seen that. I feel for them on the heavy bikes and I move past.
Lots of cars parked around the top - people out walking the high pyrenees to the Observatory on the Pic du Midi de Bigorre.
A group of Americans are lined up for a photo and I ask their guide to take one for me on the iPhone (10 euros for one photo sir - is his quick reply. One only then please.)
He takes three photos of me at the top of the col with the steel bike in the background and the col signs and memorials.
I wander through the ‘souvenir shop ‘ for a look and then with jacket on its out the door and down. I meet the others still ascending in La Mongie and tell them i’m heading for crepes and coffee.
I still into the solo ride so after 4 sugar crepes wrapped around my banana and two expresso’s I’m on my way again.
Descending has it’s own dangers - besides going from bright sun to shady forest there are always the cars passing other cars and cyclists to watch for - as courtesy as every one is you still have to keep your eyes open.
Before the crepes a possession of exotic cars passing others on my side keeps me close to my side of the road - was that a yellow Mclaren leading them , or just a old Ferrari.
Down in the valley it is a right turn back to rds the Aspin. Easy gradients lead to the turnoff to the Hourquette d’Ancizan. This is a delightful climb through open grassland scattered with camper vans , cows, horses and donkeys. Many on the road so I pat a couple of little baby donkeys on the head as i pass upwards.
the camper vans only inhabit the lower section but the open meadows lead all the way to the top. Easy delightful climbing - although I do wonder if the low gears are going to need changing when we get home - they are getting a awful amount of work.
Descending the Hourquette d’Ancizan has the sunlight / shade problem . Dropping fast from the sun into a shady corner - it’s really hard to see the road and how sharp it turns, but no mistakes nd I’m soon at the bottom and heading up the flat valley to home.
Still some action in the legs so I drop onto the aero position on the bars - hands pushed out in front with elbows on the bars and time trial home
2.50 in town ( I had guessed at 3.00 when i left the bottom of the Tourmalet)
The other shad a more cruisey day and a long lunch and then a beer on arrival in town sees them arrive 2.30hrs behind me ( I had begun to wonder if they had a problem) but the beer has JR all jumpy and I’m lucky to survive the first contact.
Col du Tourmalet
73 ascensions in the tour
Length 17.2km
Gain 1268m
Average 7.4% Max 10%
Just under 6 hrs in the saddle.
We left town in the cold of a 9.00 o’clock start in the autumn in the Pyrenees. Leigh with a newspaper stuffed up his front (old style) and the rest of us just cold - knowing that as soon as we hit the climb it is jackets off.
down to Arreau - the start of the Col d’Aspin. This col has been used 69 times in the tour and rises from 704m in Arreau to 1489 at the top of the col in 12km ( a gain of 779m with a average of 6.5% and max of 8%.)
As the group stop to take jackets come off I elect to continue and then later take my off on the fly when i warm up. Riding solo with no maps, just the road signs - 6kms 8.7% to the summit. The signs give the grade for the next km and how far to go so it is easy to gauge effort on the way.
the pedals are turning easy and I continue to tap away up the hill and this sets the tone for the day. I’m enjoying the individual ride and when the top comes, I stop for a few photos of cows wandering around the col, don wind jackets and push off - no sign of the others but everyone knows where they are going.
The climb up Aspin feels very west coast - beach forest on the mountains rising through green pastures to steep mtn tops (or so it seems)
The descent of course is a joy (aren’t they all) -hairpins, flowing open sections, and a long valley descent before turning left towards the col du Tourmalet.
Lots of rides going the other way - ascending the Aspin.
The ascent of the Tourmalet begins deceptively easily through farm yards on gradients of 3.6% and 4% but this changes as we enter the forest areas and the gradient jumps to 8% and stays there. The climb is steady but not really to demanding until it ramps up again to 10%below the ski resort of La Mongie. Perhaps it will flatten through this modern ski station but no - it stays at 10% for the next 5 kms to the top.
At least now you can see to the top - the twists and turns of the top zig zags. Quite a lot of mtn bikers on the tar - the first time we have seen that. I feel for them on the heavy bikes and I move past.
Lots of cars parked around the top - people out walking the high pyrenees to the Observatory on the Pic du Midi de Bigorre.
A group of Americans are lined up for a photo and I ask their guide to take one for me on the iPhone (10 euros for one photo sir - is his quick reply. One only then please.)
He takes three photos of me at the top of the col with the steel bike in the background and the col signs and memorials.
I wander through the ‘souvenir shop ‘ for a look and then with jacket on its out the door and down. I meet the others still ascending in La Mongie and tell them i’m heading for crepes and coffee.
I still into the solo ride so after 4 sugar crepes wrapped around my banana and two expresso’s I’m on my way again.
Descending has it’s own dangers - besides going from bright sun to shady forest there are always the cars passing other cars and cyclists to watch for - as courtesy as every one is you still have to keep your eyes open.
Before the crepes a possession of exotic cars passing others on my side keeps me close to my side of the road - was that a yellow Mclaren leading them , or just a old Ferrari.
Down in the valley it is a right turn back to rds the Aspin. Easy gradients lead to the turnoff to the Hourquette d’Ancizan. This is a delightful climb through open grassland scattered with camper vans , cows, horses and donkeys. Many on the road so I pat a couple of little baby donkeys on the head as i pass upwards.
the camper vans only inhabit the lower section but the open meadows lead all the way to the top. Easy delightful climbing - although I do wonder if the low gears are going to need changing when we get home - they are getting a awful amount of work.
Descending the Hourquette d’Ancizan has the sunlight / shade problem . Dropping fast from the sun into a shady corner - it’s really hard to see the road and how sharp it turns, but no mistakes nd I’m soon at the bottom and heading up the flat valley to home.
Still some action in the legs so I drop onto the aero position on the bars - hands pushed out in front with elbows on the bars and time trial home
2.50 in town ( I had guessed at 3.00 when i left the bottom of the Tourmalet)
The other shad a more cruisey day and a long lunch and then a beer on arrival in town sees them arrive 2.30hrs behind me ( I had begun to wonder if they had a problem) but the beer has JR all jumpy and I’m lucky to survive the first contact.
Col du Tourmalet
73 ascensions in the tour
Length 17.2km
Gain 1268m
Average 7.4% Max 10%
Saturday, September 21, 2013
Alp d’Huez Sept 4th Day 6 Dictated by Leigh
Alp d’Huez Sept 4th Day 6 Dictated by Leigh
As we stop at the bottom we remember the story that leigh has told us his last ride - our 2007 Rugby quarter finals loss sticks in his memory. Arriving at the bottom he unloaded with his cycling companions and headed straight up
Today we have cycled from just below La Grave. Leigh warns us that the first couple kms are steep but that does not stop him taking off in a big gear heading for the top to only make the first two or three corners before pulling the lever back.
Then was passed by Geoff before we we were both swamped by Dave
Dave had sat on the bottom chatting to Jef D for 3 mins - thinking that was it was enough to get us well up the hill - of course it wasn’t and he screams past us after about the third turn of 21.
Leigh’s original ride was with a french team mate and the top was reached in around the mid 50’s but this time he struggles to break the hour mark.
Dave went on to make a 50mins and 40secs Geoff went on to a 57min ride and Dallas with a very good 62 min to make third on the podium. (which is of course set up at the top)
For the record the other times are below.
Our team passed multiple riders from different countries - the orange dutch, the accountants from . . . . . .. . . .. . . .. ., but the combined strength of the kiwi’s - boys and girls were by far the strongest on the day.
The ride is a mythical 21 corner 14 km ascent that serves as a test for the tour de france (multiple times) with the fastest time going going to marco pantani in 37 mins (after riding the Telegraph and Galibier) Froome in 2013 was 40 mins, Quintana was 39mins
After coffee, baguettes and a shouting match from the skinny waitresses and buying spree (Mike and Jonathan) we rode up and over the Sarrenne col (used by the tour this time - probably the only time) A rough narrow descent drops us back into the valley (with a quick stop for ice cream on the way)
Drive back to Briancon (Dave had considered riding this but the drive out had changed his mind)
Leigh - was super impressed on the drive out to see the mythical off piste ski area of La Grave. With the glaciated peaks above the ski area and no ski patrol to pick you if you get yourself in trouble.
The times
Dave 50.40
Geoff 57. 50
Dallas 62.00
Leigh 1.06
JR 1.08
Leslie 1.10
Mike 1.17
Jonathan 1.20
Barry 1.23
Robina 1.28
As we stop at the bottom we remember the story that leigh has told us his last ride - our 2007 Rugby quarter finals loss sticks in his memory. Arriving at the bottom he unloaded with his cycling companions and headed straight up
Today we have cycled from just below La Grave. Leigh warns us that the first couple kms are steep but that does not stop him taking off in a big gear heading for the top to only make the first two or three corners before pulling the lever back.
Then was passed by Geoff before we we were both swamped by Dave
Dave had sat on the bottom chatting to Jef D for 3 mins - thinking that was it was enough to get us well up the hill - of course it wasn’t and he screams past us after about the third turn of 21.
Leigh’s original ride was with a french team mate and the top was reached in around the mid 50’s but this time he struggles to break the hour mark.
Dave went on to make a 50mins and 40secs Geoff went on to a 57min ride and Dallas with a very good 62 min to make third on the podium. (which is of course set up at the top)
For the record the other times are below.
Our team passed multiple riders from different countries - the orange dutch, the accountants from . . . . . .. . . .. . . .. ., but the combined strength of the kiwi’s - boys and girls were by far the strongest on the day.
The ride is a mythical 21 corner 14 km ascent that serves as a test for the tour de france (multiple times) with the fastest time going going to marco pantani in 37 mins (after riding the Telegraph and Galibier) Froome in 2013 was 40 mins, Quintana was 39mins
After coffee, baguettes and a shouting match from the skinny waitresses and buying spree (Mike and Jonathan) we rode up and over the Sarrenne col (used by the tour this time - probably the only time) A rough narrow descent drops us back into the valley (with a quick stop for ice cream on the way)
Drive back to Briancon (Dave had considered riding this but the drive out had changed his mind)
Leigh - was super impressed on the drive out to see the mythical off piste ski area of La Grave. With the glaciated peaks above the ski area and no ski patrol to pick you if you get yourself in trouble.
The times
Dave 50.40
Geoff 57. 50
Dallas 62.00
Leigh 1.06
JR 1.08
Leslie 1.10
Mike 1.17
Jonathan 1.20
Barry 1.23
Robina 1.28
JR locked it up THE CORONA MOMENT !! Pyrenees day one
JR locked it up THE CORONA MOMENT !!
Pyrenees day one by Geoff
A beautiful morning greeted the peleton of 5 + 2. Di and Lindsay being the two, and Leigh, Dave, Leslie, JR and Geoff the last remaining from the 13 who left Geneva.
We have our hotel apartments, Les Arches, in the town of Saint Lary Soulan, and the Williams joined us as we departed downstream on the banks of the Neste river. At Arreau (just before) we turned and proceeded up the road towards the col de Pyresourde. (1563m) After a k or two we looked back and the peleton had doubled in size. We had been joined by a English group of 5 who had been staying at a gite run by a English man living here for 9 yrs and running cycling tours
The tour leader Chris went to the front which was a bit unfortunate as we had probably thought the day would be a group ride to the top. Leigh was first to react and he went straight up to him. I was busy encouraging Dave to go but he held back. Leslie stopped for a quick pee and disappeared, leaving Dave and me to go with JR.
We quickly closed Chris and Leigh on great smooth tar riding and a gradient that dropped back to 6 degrees. More chat about local terrain and good rides, and where this road and that went, which way the tour went etc before Dave steadily with ‘no effort’ put his power into the pedal and we rode away from Chris and his group.
The Pyresourde - as famous as it is, is easy climbing and not long or high and we are soon all sitting in the sun enjoying crepes and omelets and coffee. Served to us by a young girl just back from 5 months touring New Zealand.
A quick descent on smooth tar back down the road we have climbed and with Chris leading we don’t miss the turn off that leads us towards the Azet col.
The exactly same story applies on this col. Chris jumps away and is left to dangle out there. Leigh closes him down, then Dave and me and JR and Lindsay, before his puffing disappears behind us. Smooth road climbing - at about 8 degrees - so steeper climbing than the alps but a lot shorter,
Don’t take the ski field turn - follow the yellow tour de france arrows on the road and we are soon at the top.
We gather all / share a story or two with the poms and then we are off.
What Chris didn’t say was that after 3 - or 4 kms thee was a hard left turn hairpin.
THE CORONA MOMENT !! JR brakes hard - slides the back wheel sideways - lets it run - pulls hard again - almost high sides, lets it runout into the grass verge and saves the day. One foot out - no stopping - clips in and away again.
Thar story will be told a few more times over the years - JR’s Corona moment. He of course takes the pukeko award.
And then we are back in town.
Of course Dave has not had enough and soon I find that i’m going up hill again with him.
Up the valley towards Spain and the tunnel. One hour of climbing and Ive had enough of the valley road climbing that kicks to 10 degrees a couple times and I head home.
Dave of course goes up another 6kms at 8 percent grade.
It is only 18 mins to home to find JR / leslie by the pool sunning and enjoying a Corona.
Pyrenees day one by Geoff
A beautiful morning greeted the peleton of 5 + 2. Di and Lindsay being the two, and Leigh, Dave, Leslie, JR and Geoff the last remaining from the 13 who left Geneva.
We have our hotel apartments, Les Arches, in the town of Saint Lary Soulan, and the Williams joined us as we departed downstream on the banks of the Neste river. At Arreau (just before) we turned and proceeded up the road towards the col de Pyresourde. (1563m) After a k or two we looked back and the peleton had doubled in size. We had been joined by a English group of 5 who had been staying at a gite run by a English man living here for 9 yrs and running cycling tours
The tour leader Chris went to the front which was a bit unfortunate as we had probably thought the day would be a group ride to the top. Leigh was first to react and he went straight up to him. I was busy encouraging Dave to go but he held back. Leslie stopped for a quick pee and disappeared, leaving Dave and me to go with JR.
We quickly closed Chris and Leigh on great smooth tar riding and a gradient that dropped back to 6 degrees. More chat about local terrain and good rides, and where this road and that went, which way the tour went etc before Dave steadily with ‘no effort’ put his power into the pedal and we rode away from Chris and his group.
The Pyresourde - as famous as it is, is easy climbing and not long or high and we are soon all sitting in the sun enjoying crepes and omelets and coffee. Served to us by a young girl just back from 5 months touring New Zealand.
A quick descent on smooth tar back down the road we have climbed and with Chris leading we don’t miss the turn off that leads us towards the Azet col.
The exactly same story applies on this col. Chris jumps away and is left to dangle out there. Leigh closes him down, then Dave and me and JR and Lindsay, before his puffing disappears behind us. Smooth road climbing - at about 8 degrees - so steeper climbing than the alps but a lot shorter,
Don’t take the ski field turn - follow the yellow tour de france arrows on the road and we are soon at the top.
We gather all / share a story or two with the poms and then we are off.
What Chris didn’t say was that after 3 - or 4 kms thee was a hard left turn hairpin.
THE CORONA MOMENT !! JR brakes hard - slides the back wheel sideways - lets it run - pulls hard again - almost high sides, lets it runout into the grass verge and saves the day. One foot out - no stopping - clips in and away again.
Thar story will be told a few more times over the years - JR’s Corona moment. He of course takes the pukeko award.
And then we are back in town.
Of course Dave has not had enough and soon I find that i’m going up hill again with him.
Up the valley towards Spain and the tunnel. One hour of climbing and Ive had enough of the valley road climbing that kicks to 10 degrees a couple times and I head home.
Dave of course goes up another 6kms at 8 percent grade.
It is only 18 mins to home to find JR / leslie by the pool sunning and enjoying a Corona.
Tuesday, September 17, 2013
Sept 16th day 8 Barcelonnette - Beuil
Sept 16th day 8
Some changes to the program today as the col de la cayolle is closed
After checking out the options we elect for the highest main road in Europe col de Bonnette 2807 m
Thats only 32kms of climbing
The first 10kms go easy up to Jaisers but immediately we turn there it goes uphill.
climbing at 6-7% now is easy and we settle into the work and Dave decides it is his day to help Robina stay at the front and pushes her on anything below 8 degrees. His legs must have been burning at the top of the col
We climb for more than 3 hrs -out of the wooded countryside past small villages and into the upper valley - 9 kms to go =- seems impossible that it can be so far
We are all in our own zones - JR riding with Leigh until he runs out of surf stories and then he is gone and he rides on his own to claim the col for himself.
Dave is with Robina, Geoff and Leslie ride together, Mike by himself mostly in the upper stages and Jonathan with Barry but they split near the top
At 2807 it is high in the world - nothing higher ( a lookout point) and a way in the distance the snow covered alps. Below we can see 2okms of snaking road, but it is not until we are on it we realize how good the surface is- Perfect is one word but event that is not good enough. Ultra smooth tar, twisting flowing corners the road disappearing for ever.
On the first curves in the upper section following Dallas i seem to free fall down through a abandoned town 9or could be barracks for the gun emplacements scattered around the col (don’t want those Italians sneaking over the ridge
We are in the Mecantour Park and it runs along the Italian border.
The road keeps descending - down and down until finally after 20 + mins of high speed descending we stop to regroup
But there is more - it takes another 20 mins to descend a tightening valley until we reach anything like a main road.
now it lunch time 1200 and we pull into the first available spot and enjoy a slow lunch in .. . .. . .. . ..
After lunch its more descending and the A team stops to adjust clothing levels
(JR has finally warmed up)
Down some more but only at 3 % and we form a train and each takes long pulls on the front as we whistle down the gorge - riding slowly after lunch - just under 50kms hr.
A paved bike path provides some additional fun as it twists and turns alongside the road.
Soon it is climbing time again - from . . .. . . . .Tirree it is 1000m of ascending up a small country road Mike and Jonathon enjoy a van ride and leigh the occasional door pull
At he pointed end dave, Geoff and Dallas ride tempo up the hill- the banter ‘get a cup of concrete in yar’ style soon brings the pace up from 11kms -to 12kms/hr and more banter pushed that up to 14kms hr uphill.
Riding three abreast we top the col and descend to Beuil and the fabulous hotel Escapade where we enjoy a 2 star Michelin meal that leaves us all full to the brim
The best fine french dining we have had
Some changes to the program today as the col de la cayolle is closed
After checking out the options we elect for the highest main road in Europe col de Bonnette 2807 m
Thats only 32kms of climbing
The first 10kms go easy up to Jaisers but immediately we turn there it goes uphill.
climbing at 6-7% now is easy and we settle into the work and Dave decides it is his day to help Robina stay at the front and pushes her on anything below 8 degrees. His legs must have been burning at the top of the col
We climb for more than 3 hrs -out of the wooded countryside past small villages and into the upper valley - 9 kms to go =- seems impossible that it can be so far
We are all in our own zones - JR riding with Leigh until he runs out of surf stories and then he is gone and he rides on his own to claim the col for himself.
Dave is with Robina, Geoff and Leslie ride together, Mike by himself mostly in the upper stages and Jonathan with Barry but they split near the top
At 2807 it is high in the world - nothing higher ( a lookout point) and a way in the distance the snow covered alps. Below we can see 2okms of snaking road, but it is not until we are on it we realize how good the surface is- Perfect is one word but event that is not good enough. Ultra smooth tar, twisting flowing corners the road disappearing for ever.
On the first curves in the upper section following Dallas i seem to free fall down through a abandoned town 9or could be barracks for the gun emplacements scattered around the col (don’t want those Italians sneaking over the ridge
We are in the Mecantour Park and it runs along the Italian border.
The road keeps descending - down and down until finally after 20 + mins of high speed descending we stop to regroup
But there is more - it takes another 20 mins to descend a tightening valley until we reach anything like a main road.
now it lunch time 1200 and we pull into the first available spot and enjoy a slow lunch in .. . .. . .. . ..
After lunch its more descending and the A team stops to adjust clothing levels
(JR has finally warmed up)
Down some more but only at 3 % and we form a train and each takes long pulls on the front as we whistle down the gorge - riding slowly after lunch - just under 50kms hr.
A paved bike path provides some additional fun as it twists and turns alongside the road.
Soon it is climbing time again - from . . .. . . . .Tirree it is 1000m of ascending up a small country road Mike and Jonathon enjoy a van ride and leigh the occasional door pull
At he pointed end dave, Geoff and Dallas ride tempo up the hill- the banter ‘get a cup of concrete in yar’ style soon brings the pace up from 11kms -to 12kms/hr and more banter pushed that up to 14kms hr uphill.
Riding three abreast we top the col and descend to Beuil and the fabulous hotel Escapade where we enjoy a 2 star Michelin meal that leaves us all full to the brim
The best fine french dining we have had
Sat 15th Day 7 By JR Briancon - Barcelonnette
Sat 15th Day 7
By JR
Forecast for the top of Col d’Izord
Rain 57- 72% chance with 10-20mm expected
Temp at the top of d’Izord predicted 7 degrees to 1 degree
Wind forecast 24km
It was a day of roughly 50kms up and 63 kms down
A reduced crew, some taking a rest day as the weather was not our side. A guaranteed soaking
2 major cols Col d”Izord 2360m and Col de Vars 2019m making this a HARD CORE day out. A lunch in the middle at Guillestre saved our arses and 5 pizzas woofed down as the rain dumped outside.
We stumbled out , full bellies and into 20kms of up. It was a FART FEST for some and the small team (Dave, Leslie, JR, Dallas and Geoff) worked together to grovel over the second col of the day. Soaked (some of us) we ripped up the wet downhill.
As one ‘express train, numbed we charged into Barcelonette.
Approx 5 hrs in the saddle.
A day of rain, steaming heat, frozen downhills, aching ups and 5 pizzas that saved all of us
Climbing speeds are about 10kms hr - so about 4 hrs of cilmbing
By JR
Forecast for the top of Col d’Izord
Rain 57- 72% chance with 10-20mm expected
Temp at the top of d’Izord predicted 7 degrees to 1 degree
Wind forecast 24km
It was a day of roughly 50kms up and 63 kms down
A reduced crew, some taking a rest day as the weather was not our side. A guaranteed soaking
2 major cols Col d”Izord 2360m and Col de Vars 2019m making this a HARD CORE day out. A lunch in the middle at Guillestre saved our arses and 5 pizzas woofed down as the rain dumped outside.
We stumbled out , full bellies and into 20kms of up. It was a FART FEST for some and the small team (Dave, Leslie, JR, Dallas and Geoff) worked together to grovel over the second col of the day. Soaked (some of us) we ripped up the wet downhill.
As one ‘express train, numbed we charged into Barcelonette.
Approx 5 hrs in the saddle.
A day of rain, steaming heat, frozen downhills, aching ups and 5 pizzas that saved all of us
Climbing speeds are about 10kms hr - so about 4 hrs of cilmbing
Saturday, September 14, 2013
100 METES FROM THE SAVOY - TURN RIGHT AND CLIMB
Sounds easy enough - but what’s ahead is a bit different than we are used to in NZ.
The col du Telegraph and
then the Col du Galibier
Right from the start the gradient ramps up and after a initial burst from leigh it is the ‘drugs free’ Leslie who slides away. (we sent her test away and still awaiting the results)
She claims it was dua cafe at breakfast, JR (John Raymond says it was because he did say good morning , or some such thing.
Whatever she is gone burger - soon out of sight and mind.
The thick forest and twists and turns hide her from sight and she is finally spotted just cresting the col - some 2 kms at least in from of us (we all decide we want some of whatever it was that she took)
Meanwhile the peleton increased by two as Di and Lindsay descend from the Telegraph to join us and we climb steadily to the first col of the day . Out to the right views of the snow covered tops of the Croix de Tetes.
Telegraph is not really a true col - more like a bump on the way up Galibier. Jackets on for the 5kms descent to Valloire, and we still freeze going down.
Another big cycle group is getting together in Valloire - must be thirty of them (in orange so must be a dutch group)
Straight in Valloire, the real work begins, 18 kms to go. It’s steep straight from town but it soon flattens. Leigh is again miles away but comes back as it steepens, and we are all entertained by the French Mirage jets targeting a orange smoke flare further up the valley. The army communications units are present in two or three places.
Dallas, Dave and myself climb steadily with Leigh as the road turns fro the first time and starts to zig zag up a face to reach the upper valley. Leigh plays with us - surging away- of course we follow. He does that three or four times - (just because he said - still trying to find some legs - yeah right)
Soon the bottom gear falls out and he is gone, and it is just Dave and I moving on towards the top with Dallas back a little.
The top is in sight but still a long way away as we work our way up the right shoulder, before the next to last series of switch backs
The fight jets are back and they dive at our height down the valley towards the remote valley they have targeted
the final series of turns - and ahead guys are getting of their bikes - stopping with heads held low. Dave urges me on as the last 100meters seems hard and we ride together over the col.
The others arrive quickly, but it is cold and so we descend to the cafe down in the sun and watch streams of bikes going both ways. Some ride up from this side, get their photo taken and return for coffee.
The sun soon warms the group up and the shop benefits from sales of named items.
A Barry puncture slows the descent to col de Lautaret and some of us take the chance to lie in the sun and catch two mins of sleep.
So passes the Col du Galibier - the mythical passage that the tour of France has used 53 times.
The road from Lautaret towards Briancon sits at 6% gradient - fast enough to tuck and not so fast to brake for corners. At 65kms a hr the distance it disappearing fast.
A small regroup a train of riders soon brings us o Briancon and the hotel
Another great sunny day in the Alps
The col du Telegraph and
then the Col du Galibier
Right from the start the gradient ramps up and after a initial burst from leigh it is the ‘drugs free’ Leslie who slides away. (we sent her test away and still awaiting the results)
She claims it was dua cafe at breakfast, JR (John Raymond says it was because he did say good morning , or some such thing.
Whatever she is gone burger - soon out of sight and mind.
The thick forest and twists and turns hide her from sight and she is finally spotted just cresting the col - some 2 kms at least in from of us (we all decide we want some of whatever it was that she took)
Meanwhile the peleton increased by two as Di and Lindsay descend from the Telegraph to join us and we climb steadily to the first col of the day . Out to the right views of the snow covered tops of the Croix de Tetes.
Telegraph is not really a true col - more like a bump on the way up Galibier. Jackets on for the 5kms descent to Valloire, and we still freeze going down.
Another big cycle group is getting together in Valloire - must be thirty of them (in orange so must be a dutch group)
Straight in Valloire, the real work begins, 18 kms to go. It’s steep straight from town but it soon flattens. Leigh is again miles away but comes back as it steepens, and we are all entertained by the French Mirage jets targeting a orange smoke flare further up the valley. The army communications units are present in two or three places.
Dallas, Dave and myself climb steadily with Leigh as the road turns fro the first time and starts to zig zag up a face to reach the upper valley. Leigh plays with us - surging away- of course we follow. He does that three or four times - (just because he said - still trying to find some legs - yeah right)
Soon the bottom gear falls out and he is gone, and it is just Dave and I moving on towards the top with Dallas back a little.
The top is in sight but still a long way away as we work our way up the right shoulder, before the next to last series of switch backs
The fight jets are back and they dive at our height down the valley towards the remote valley they have targeted
the final series of turns - and ahead guys are getting of their bikes - stopping with heads held low. Dave urges me on as the last 100meters seems hard and we ride together over the col.
The others arrive quickly, but it is cold and so we descend to the cafe down in the sun and watch streams of bikes going both ways. Some ride up from this side, get their photo taken and return for coffee.
The sun soon warms the group up and the shop benefits from sales of named items.
A Barry puncture slows the descent to col de Lautaret and some of us take the chance to lie in the sun and catch two mins of sleep.
So passes the Col du Galibier - the mythical passage that the tour of France has used 53 times.
The road from Lautaret towards Briancon sits at 6% gradient - fast enough to tuck and not so fast to brake for corners. At 65kms a hr the distance it disappearing fast.
A small regroup a train of riders soon brings us o Briancon and the hotel
Another great sunny day in the Alps
Thursday, September 12, 2013
Day 4 Dallas Mclister
We headed out of a saint Maurice we're we had rested well yesterday my legs were a bit sensitive after 4 rides in Thonon les Bain .But thanks to the one winged warrior Jeff Desbecker call a spade a spade and shit stinky who supplied me and Baz with protein powder which we proceeded to over dose on last night .We were feeling dangerous so Baz dressed appropriately
Sporting his fastest out fit full Ferrari colours.
Before the riding started today dramas began early ,Jonathan has lost his wallet and passport he was awarded the pukeko (outstanding ability to stand out ) for sweating a lot so it's appropriate he's has a pukeko on his helmet as we head off .Desbecker direct traffic as we get organised to leave.Ive been getting my jeffs mixed up I'm not sure who is on the tour and who is the tour organiser.
We have 2 ks to warm up then the 48 k of climbing 2000 m to the top of Col de I'iseran altitude 2754m the plan is to coffee at Val-d'Isere . Dave Drew and Geoff our fearless leader half wheel each other in to town fighting it out to be the alfa male in the group and take all the women. Me and Baz aren't sure what they will do with them . It's An amazing town with impressive mountain hotels and homes after coffee we have 17 km to go and 1000 m of climbing at altitude .
My trusty Garmin tells me it's 14 deg but the wind chill is at least 20 deg a hot topic amongst the crew what to wear how many layers. The climb is more of the same 8 - 12% but the lungs are burning and my heart is trying to escape through my mouth .Me and Jr are out front cruising soaking up the amazing scene playing out in front of us. It may be the shortage of oxygen or the sense of achievement but its like riding in heaven truly amazing surrounding and feeling .
My back start to tighten so it time to stand up also I feel the need to ride alone click a few gears shoot ahead of Jr cruising along then hear a bike behind have a quick look but don't see the name tag on the jacket (every one has a white coat so Dave the school teacher has written his name on the tag to the amusement of all we suspect his undies are also named) click some gears to drop JR but he's still there
I'm impressed look back to see Dave Drew undisputed owner of the poker dot jersey . I tell him to power up as I'm diggin the vibe alone style .5 k to go to the top and Jr is back another quick look click a few gears blast to the top at 20 k/hr hurting big time but exhilarated .
Arrive to the top hide from the wind quick as it insanely cold once you stop .to my surprise mr hunt pulls up not Jr . The crew role in one at a time grins on faces steamy bellowing from there blow holes .Last but by no means least Robina a powerful woman who has earned an unmeasurable amount of my respect .
Then it's time to layer up 321 go we plummet down the smooth roads that encourage you to lean your bike over more push the limits of your tires and ability.But there a down side the faster you go the colder it is.
From the bottom we have 60 k of down to our next destination Saint Michael de Maurienne but the cycle god Are not playing fair and we have a good head wind.on the way,
Mike decides to remodel some French roads with his ass by going for a slide . He's a bit black and blue but ok. On the way Leigh tries for the fourth time I've seen to become a car grill his life long dream !
We hit our destination a hot shower and me and my roomy restart our conversation about what we will buy our wife's for letting us come on this trip. Barry is trying to talk me into a pearl necklace but that sounds expensive and we haven't seen any pearl shops ! Sent from my iPad
Before the riding started today dramas began early ,Jonathan has lost his wallet and passport he was awarded the pukeko (outstanding ability to stand out ) for sweating a lot so it's appropriate he's has a pukeko on his helmet as we head off .Desbecker direct traffic as we get organised to leave.Ive been getting my jeffs mixed up I'm not sure who is on the tour and who is the tour organiser.
We have 2 ks to warm up then the 48 k of climbing 2000 m to the top of Col de I'iseran altitude 2754m the plan is to coffee at Val-d'Isere . Dave Drew and Geoff our fearless leader half wheel each other in to town fighting it out to be the alfa male in the group and take all the women. Me and Baz aren't sure what they will do with them . It's An amazing town with impressive mountain hotels and homes after coffee we have 17 km to go and 1000 m of climbing at altitude .
My trusty Garmin tells me it's 14 deg but the wind chill is at least 20 deg a hot topic amongst the crew what to wear how many layers. The climb is more of the same 8 - 12% but the lungs are burning and my heart is trying to escape through my mouth .Me and Jr are out front cruising soaking up the amazing scene playing out in front of us. It may be the shortage of oxygen or the sense of achievement but its like riding in heaven truly amazing surrounding and feeling .
My back start to tighten so it time to stand up also I feel the need to ride alone click a few gears shoot ahead of Jr cruising along then hear a bike behind have a quick look but don't see the name tag on the jacket (every one has a white coat so Dave the school teacher has written his name on the tag to the amusement of all we suspect his undies are also named) click some gears to drop JR but he's still there
I'm impressed look back to see Dave Drew undisputed owner of the poker dot jersey . I tell him to power up as I'm diggin the vibe alone style .5 k to go to the top and Jr is back another quick look click a few gears blast to the top at 20 k/hr hurting big time but exhilarated .
Arrive to the top hide from the wind quick as it insanely cold once you stop .to my surprise mr hunt pulls up not Jr . The crew role in one at a time grins on faces steamy bellowing from there blow holes .Last but by no means least Robina a powerful woman who has earned an unmeasurable amount of my respect .
Then it's time to layer up 321 go we plummet down the smooth roads that encourage you to lean your bike over more push the limits of your tires and ability.But there a down side the faster you go the colder it is.
From the bottom we have 60 k of down to our next destination Saint Michael de Maurienne but the cycle god Are not playing fair and we have a good head wind.on the way,
Mike decides to remodel some French roads with his ass by going for a slide . He's a bit black and blue but ok. On the way Leigh tries for the fourth time I've seen to become a car grill his life long dream !
We hit our destination a hot shower and me and my roomy restart our conversation about what we will buy our wife's for letting us come on this trip. Barry is trying to talk me into a pearl necklace but that sounds expensive and we haven't seen any pearl shops ! Sent from my iPad
The strava links from Dallas
Click on the link to open his dashboard
http://www.strava.com/dashboard
http://www.strava.com/dashboard
Wednesday, September 11, 2013
Day 3 – Flumet to Bourg Saint Maurice
A gentle roll downhill from the hotel for a
kilometre or so was the warm-up for the day then we were straight into the
first climb, the Col les Saisies (1432m). This was a 10km climb between 7 and 8
percent most of the way. The day started fresh and after the first half of the
climb got even cooler as we reached the summit. By now the routine of throwing
on another couple of layers for the descent had been fine-tuned and we were
off.
The downhills are proving to be very
popular and the usual suspects hit the front and made the most of a very good
road surface and some open and fast flowing corners.
Then it was through the truly authentic and
unspoiled mountain village of Beaufort and we started the 20km climb to the
Cormet de Roselend (1968m). The scenery just got better and better as we gained
in elevation, with fantastic views not only of the gorge but also the valley
below. We stopped for lunch after 11km and thoroughly enjoyed the pre-ordered
hot soup and a warm café, and from here it was a very scenic final 9km to the
top.
Again, we threw on as many warm clothes as we could find in the support
vehicles and it was a 20km dive to the valley below. A top speed of 103kph was
recorded and the smiles on everyones faces at the bottom told the story of
another awesome descent.
The corners started off as open flowing with a very good road surface and we rode easy, until Dallas decided to put the pressure on and took a flyer of the front. We all stepped up of course, and the road changed to a small single lane with the occasional white drop of paint in the middle. It dropped down the side of a a very deep gorge twisting and turning - the corners very sharp and falling away below the front wheel. Dallas kept applying the pressure and Leigh, Dave, Geoff, Mike and JR enjoyed the ride. Some hard over on one side while others had the bike laid over the other way. Only one car interrupted this free fall down the valley towards Bourg Saint Maurice.
From here it was a short ride through town to the
hotel and some much-needed relaxation.
We were very fortunate to be in the home
town of Domonique and she invited us to her home for a kir aperitif before
dinner. It was great to see the inside of one of the many thousands of chalets
we see every day scattered throughout the mountains and enjoy the very warm
French hospitality.
From here it was out to the restaurant her
daughter works in for dinner and refuel for the long 48km climb that will take
us up to 2764m on the Col de I’Iseran tomorrow.
Day 2 story from Barry
A gloomy and wet start from Samoens, brief ride down the valley and a slow circuit(s) of Clues as Geoff tried to find the start of Colombiere. Excitement levels rise as we see the sign showing a 1613m Col . Group stays together for most of the climb and split as we get closer and the weather closes in
My spies tell me that the leading group comprised Dangerous Dallas, Dateless Dave, with Compass Geoff tucked in behind. JR was closely follows by Lesley, she does that all day!
Mike then appeared out of the mist and Barry steered Jonathan to the top guided by a combination of grunts and cow bells. Lee- the Pro manfully rode with Robina
We had great help from our drivers Agnes and Dominic brilliantly directed by Jeff- alias one- wing.
Brief regroup at cafe then great downhill before a short ! climb of 566m to the top of Col des Aravis then 10k downhill to Flume-plus a 4k uphill to the hotel!
No sports channels here so had to reply on Laura's updates via viber to get the great result for the Americas Cup.
The dummy award was passed on to Dallas for trying to head plant a wall on the wrong side of a tunnel road.
Tuesday, September 10, 2013
Monday, September 9, 2013
It all started with a bang
Not the story we wanted to tell but nevertheless it did happen.
Everyone excited after arriving in Thonon les Bains to go riding. Different groups headed out while others were still arriving at the airport.
A txt from Dallas - Where are you ? Jef has crashed. Thoughts of non helmet riding Crown Range dweller rushed through the head. The worst of course - but it was not that bad but bad enough.
A car had stopped un-expectantly in front of Jef and Dallas and both hit the back (Dallas only glancing as he was further back) Jef hit the back of the car. He crashed over the bike to collect the car with his scapular. Which broke a small piece on the bottom edge.
Ambulance / police / hospital all followed and on return from Geneva we went to sit in the hospital. (it so happened that our driver Agnes knew two people in the town - one a doctor at the hospital, so we followed up with a call to him and he duly arrived in sandals and t-shirt after spending a day on Lac Leman)
With his assistance we started getting feedback and soon Jef was back with us - drugged to the eye balls, arm in a sling and not feeling so good about the world.
Not the start we wanted but that was it. Dammmm
Sunday 8th
Gentle riding in scattered groups before the rain, or for some in it. Exploring routes above the lake. French low mountain countryside, riding with paddocks of musical cows.
Monday 9th
The depart.
0820 - pedals clicked in and away. Jean Louis (the doctor) joined us for the ride to Morzine up the valley of the Dranske. Deep in the gorge where he sun don’t shine - 11 degrees - which is a surprise after riding in 30 + just a day or so before.
A unexpected detour forces a climb up the walls of the valley before descending through sunlight shafts in the trees back to the valley floor. The valley climbs only gently all the way to Morzine so it is really a nice way to warm up.
According to the guide book it was lunch - in fact it is only 10.00 and a chance for those keen to add a bit of extra hill work ie climb to 1800meters / 10 kms above Morzine to the ski station of Avoriaz. Only two keen souls chose this option - Dave Drew and Leslie Logan, so of course I had to accompany them.
A great climb done at easy pace - 1hr 10min takes us to a ‘out of this world’ ski station. Some amazing architecture
But it was cold - so no hanging around. Jackets on and 10kms of flowing descents to follow. Coffee and chips in Morzine , while the main peleton had ascended the Col de Joux Plane on the way to Samoens.
It is steeper - up to 9 degrees on the sign posts (but 11 degrees in places)
From our guide book (produced in Qtn)
Col de Joux Plane
Starting from Morzine, the Col de Joux Plane ascent is
‘ . . . a deceptively tough (but not too hard) climb as it starts with a real kick from Morzine town centre. There are a couple of easier sections that give the legs a quick break and the
climb ends with easy last 2km to a small lake. Its not a hair-pin climb so a rhythm is
difficult to achieve."
Col de Joux Plane 10.9km Average Grad 6.5% Vertical 711m
The descent is fantastic again - fast following roads - although very rough in places with slumps, bumps and big cracks.
A great start for the trip
Leigh takes the dummy award - riding around a roundabout the wrong way
Tomorrow the Colombière
Col de la Colombière (1613 m).
Max Gradient 12%. 19.5km Vertical 1120m
and then the
Col des Aravis (1486 m) 10km. Vertical 566m
Everyone excited after arriving in Thonon les Bains to go riding. Different groups headed out while others were still arriving at the airport.
A txt from Dallas - Where are you ? Jef has crashed. Thoughts of non helmet riding Crown Range dweller rushed through the head. The worst of course - but it was not that bad but bad enough.
A car had stopped un-expectantly in front of Jef and Dallas and both hit the back (Dallas only glancing as he was further back) Jef hit the back of the car. He crashed over the bike to collect the car with his scapular. Which broke a small piece on the bottom edge.
Ambulance / police / hospital all followed and on return from Geneva we went to sit in the hospital. (it so happened that our driver Agnes knew two people in the town - one a doctor at the hospital, so we followed up with a call to him and he duly arrived in sandals and t-shirt after spending a day on Lac Leman)
With his assistance we started getting feedback and soon Jef was back with us - drugged to the eye balls, arm in a sling and not feeling so good about the world.
Not the start we wanted but that was it. Dammmm
Sunday 8th
Gentle riding in scattered groups before the rain, or for some in it. Exploring routes above the lake. French low mountain countryside, riding with paddocks of musical cows.
Monday 9th
The depart.
0820 - pedals clicked in and away. Jean Louis (the doctor) joined us for the ride to Morzine up the valley of the Dranske. Deep in the gorge where he sun don’t shine - 11 degrees - which is a surprise after riding in 30 + just a day or so before.
A unexpected detour forces a climb up the walls of the valley before descending through sunlight shafts in the trees back to the valley floor. The valley climbs only gently all the way to Morzine so it is really a nice way to warm up.
According to the guide book it was lunch - in fact it is only 10.00 and a chance for those keen to add a bit of extra hill work ie climb to 1800meters / 10 kms above Morzine to the ski station of Avoriaz. Only two keen souls chose this option - Dave Drew and Leslie Logan, so of course I had to accompany them.
A great climb done at easy pace - 1hr 10min takes us to a ‘out of this world’ ski station. Some amazing architecture
But it was cold - so no hanging around. Jackets on and 10kms of flowing descents to follow. Coffee and chips in Morzine , while the main peleton had ascended the Col de Joux Plane on the way to Samoens.
It is steeper - up to 9 degrees on the sign posts (but 11 degrees in places)
From our guide book (produced in Qtn)
Col de Joux Plane
Starting from Morzine, the Col de Joux Plane ascent is
‘ . . . a deceptively tough (but not too hard) climb as it starts with a real kick from Morzine town centre. There are a couple of easier sections that give the legs a quick break and the
climb ends with easy last 2km to a small lake. Its not a hair-pin climb so a rhythm is
difficult to achieve."
Col de Joux Plane 10.9km Average Grad 6.5% Vertical 711m
The descent is fantastic again - fast following roads - although very rough in places with slumps, bumps and big cracks.
A great start for the trip
Leigh takes the dummy award - riding around a roundabout the wrong way
Tomorrow the Colombière
Col de la Colombière (1613 m).
Max Gradient 12%. 19.5km Vertical 1120m
and then the
Col des Aravis (1486 m) 10km. Vertical 566m
Thursday, September 5, 2013
Riding in Europe
A preliminary to the route des grandes alps tour.
The refuge Miage sits at 1560 in a high valley under the towering massif of Dome de Miage
For the locals who know it is a short walk of 1 hour to experience the sun set on the massif with a glass of beer or fine wine before retiring inside for dinning. The specialty of the house is a fondue with the local mushrooms, and so this was the choice for us.
Two beers before dinner sitting outside after the 1 hour walk from the valley floor (on track or 4 wheel road)
The refuge is on the route of the tour du Mt Blanc - just a few walkers there this night - one from Sydney who heard us talking (he had completed the tour in 10 days with his father of 83yrs) and had walked from Chamonix to get away from the crowds of this mountain metropolis.
So fine dining of fondue followed by a offering of the house - a glass of locally produced
genepi (I'm glad there was no naked light around otherwise there might have been a problem). It made for interesting walk down in the dark - was it the road wobbling or just my head.
Génépi can be made at home through the simple addition of prepared herbs to vodka or grain alcohol. Each Alpine mountaineer or refuge has their own recipe for génépi, but a generic recipe for a liter would require forty flowers and forty grams of sugar to be added to 40% alcohol by volume.
But the riding.
Those white wall tyre's give it the impression of an old classic, but we all know that it is a modern carbon speed machine and that the guy riding it is an old classic !! Beau Rapley
With all the pieces of the bike finally here (one bag with skewer and peddles and clothes took their own time) it was time to test the legs.
From Saint Gervais to St Nicolas and then around past the Bettex Telepherique, down a narrow and rough cracked old tar road to the find a connection to Megeve A quick 8kms on good road to visit and then home. A local rider went past with some enthusiasm but the legs were there to give chase and stay with him. He dived off on a side road soon and was gone.
Narrow country roads - steep at times but surrounded by peaks reaching to the sky on a cloudless day. What more to ask.
Perhaps the chance to catch up with some others tomorrow although I did get a txt from Dallas saying it was hotter than he expected, and that was before him and Barry went for a ride.
The Mtn behind the bike is just the biggest in Europe Mt Blanc.
the second photo is at Miage and the third outside the house.
A preliminary to the route des grandes alps tour.
The refuge Miage sits at 1560 in a high valley under the towering massif of Dome de Miage
For the locals who know it is a short walk of 1 hour to experience the sun set on the massif with a glass of beer or fine wine before retiring inside for dinning. The specialty of the house is a fondue with the local mushrooms, and so this was the choice for us.
Two beers before dinner sitting outside after the 1 hour walk from the valley floor (on track or 4 wheel road)
The refuge is on the route of the tour du Mt Blanc - just a few walkers there this night - one from Sydney who heard us talking (he had completed the tour in 10 days with his father of 83yrs) and had walked from Chamonix to get away from the crowds of this mountain metropolis.
So fine dining of fondue followed by a offering of the house - a glass of locally produced
genepi (I'm glad there was no naked light around otherwise there might have been a problem). It made for interesting walk down in the dark - was it the road wobbling or just my head.
Génépi can be made at home through the simple addition of prepared herbs to vodka or grain alcohol. Each Alpine mountaineer or refuge has their own recipe for génépi, but a generic recipe for a liter would require forty flowers and forty grams of sugar to be added to 40% alcohol by volume.
But the riding.
Those white wall tyre's give it the impression of an old classic, but we all know that it is a modern carbon speed machine and that the guy riding it is an old classic !! Beau Rapley
With all the pieces of the bike finally here (one bag with skewer and peddles and clothes took their own time) it was time to test the legs.
From Saint Gervais to St Nicolas and then around past the Bettex Telepherique, down a narrow and rough cracked old tar road to the find a connection to Megeve A quick 8kms on good road to visit and then home. A local rider went past with some enthusiasm but the legs were there to give chase and stay with him. He dived off on a side road soon and was gone.
Narrow country roads - steep at times but surrounded by peaks reaching to the sky on a cloudless day. What more to ask.
Perhaps the chance to catch up with some others tomorrow although I did get a txt from Dallas saying it was hotter than he expected, and that was before him and Barry went for a ride.
The Mtn behind the bike is just the biggest in Europe Mt Blanc.
the second photo is at Miage and the third outside the house.
Wednesday, August 28, 2013
a love story
A love story
Each year a small diverse group of people meet at 4 or 5 different venues around New Zealand for one reason - they are in love, with the sport of skiing, but it is not just the skiing but also the competition.
Masters ski racing draws this diverse group to compete from all different parts, from Hong Kong, from Winton, Auckland and Chch. Everyone comes for the skiing and also for the competition.
We all love the competition, we love the winning, and hate a bit the losing, but we enjoy the race and the company.
We enjoy the family of skiers, the quarrels, the tribulations, we pick each other up when we fall down and feel for the skiers who miss a gate, cheer for the competitor when he or she has a good run, regardless if their time beats you in the end.
We race in a sport that is very unique - the course is laid down a steep icy mountain side that has hugh variation in pitch angle and consistency. In slalom maybe 30 gates drilled into the snow (or more lately the ground) in what appears to the outsider a absolute confusion of red and blue poles. Even to the racers it requires some ‘course checking’ to establish the line, and then to figure out the fastest way to ski the line - the magic route between the gates that will get you down the mountain first.
34 gates in less than 30secs and to win it means that you will beat the opposition sometimes by only 2 / 100ths of a second over two runs. Yes in 60secs the result can come down to less than the time it takes to tap a key board, or blink a eye.
To be beaten by a second is enormous in one run of 30 secs, and if you are more than 1.5 secs of the pace then then run is analysis in the mind over and over to see where on earth you were soooo slow. We are talking just 1.5 secs. here.
Its the same in other sports isn’t it. In swimming and athletics the winner is often fritters of a second part. The same - I think not. Athletics - a running surface that is exactly the same start to finish, in swimming - the pool here is exactly the same as the pool in Barcelona, but in skiing every inch of the course is different every time, but I get lost . . … . .
This group of racers are in love . . with the sport of ski racing and the sport of skiing. For most it began from the very first time they slid down the hill - can they remember the exact moment - perhaps not, but many will.
Each year a small diverse group of people meet at 4 or 5 different venues around New Zealand for one reason - they are in love, with the sport of skiing, but it is not just the skiing but also the competition.
Masters ski racing draws this diverse group to compete from all different parts, from Hong Kong, from Winton, Auckland and Chch. Everyone comes for the skiing and also for the competition.
We all love the competition, we love the winning, and hate a bit the losing, but we enjoy the race and the company.
We enjoy the family of skiers, the quarrels, the tribulations, we pick each other up when we fall down and feel for the skiers who miss a gate, cheer for the competitor when he or she has a good run, regardless if their time beats you in the end.
We race in a sport that is very unique - the course is laid down a steep icy mountain side that has hugh variation in pitch angle and consistency. In slalom maybe 30 gates drilled into the snow (or more lately the ground) in what appears to the outsider a absolute confusion of red and blue poles. Even to the racers it requires some ‘course checking’ to establish the line, and then to figure out the fastest way to ski the line - the magic route between the gates that will get you down the mountain first.
34 gates in less than 30secs and to win it means that you will beat the opposition sometimes by only 2 / 100ths of a second over two runs. Yes in 60secs the result can come down to less than the time it takes to tap a key board, or blink a eye.
To be beaten by a second is enormous in one run of 30 secs, and if you are more than 1.5 secs of the pace then then run is analysis in the mind over and over to see where on earth you were soooo slow. We are talking just 1.5 secs. here.
Its the same in other sports isn’t it. In swimming and athletics the winner is often fritters of a second part. The same - I think not. Athletics - a running surface that is exactly the same start to finish, in swimming - the pool here is exactly the same as the pool in Barcelona, but in skiing every inch of the course is different every time, but I get lost . . … . .
This group of racers are in love . . with the sport of ski racing and the sport of skiing. For most it began from the very first time they slid down the hill - can they remember the exact moment - perhaps not, but many will.
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