Lost in France

The heat went on early as we left Saint-Lary-Soulan, with Simon and Geoff riding away setting a blistering pace, knowing full well that we have three major climbs to ascend during the day.

 

We ascended Col D’aspin as a group until the 7km mark went the peloton split up due to excess racket, with Phil nudging ahead and summiting first.  Simon came in second and Alastair out sprinted Wayne for third.

 

We enjoy a nice following descend and after being pasted by a local rider, the train quickly formed and the pace increased to the valley floor and onto the start of the Col du Tourmalet.

 

After the group was passed on the lower slopes, Phil chased a local experienced Frenchman who had climb the col 10 times this year, but couldn’t understand why Phil was hanging with him, and consistently tried to drop him.

 

The col started off pleasantly, however soon ramped up to +10% and the hurt began.  Simon bridged the gap, however the Frenchman was having none of it and put a hit, instantly dropping Simon.  Phil sat with him to the top, with Simon arriving not long afterwards.  Wayne and Dave rode in together with Alastair then Geoff arriving soon afterwards.

 

Following the obligatory photos, five of the six riders descended to a local Café’, however Simon decided to go walkabout and we never saw him again.  Following several crapes we decided to head for home via Hourq d’Ancizan, which is at the top of a beautiful valley climb.

 

Wayne set a fast tempo into town after complaining all day how his legs were burnt and that he had nothing to give.

 

After a quick shower, two cars were dispatched to local the wayward Simon, who obviously will once again be carrying the “donkey” tomorrow.