Trip to USA November 2014
New York.
Set off to US later than usual, in order to be with Andrew and Lizzy for Thanksgiving, for the first time since they moved to US. First of all, stayed with Emma and Laura in New York. Their baby boy is due early December. Weather warm enough to sit on their roof top in the sunshine, but much colder weather is forecast!
The day after our arrival, we walked across Brooklyn Bridge into Manhattan. Weather not great but still exciting. The day after we visited Laura at her new offices in Manhattan. A spacious, bright 16th floor in a high-rise building with far-reaching views across the city. We met her boss, Mandeep and other members of the team. Laura and Ems had a hospital visit at nearby Mount Sinai hospital, and we went off to the Museum of Modern Art, affectionately known by locals as Moma.
There was a feature exhibition of the works of Matisse, specifically his "cut outs". I've never been particularly struck but it was a very informative and enlightening feature, which gave you a really good understanding of the technique of cut out and how he achieved body shape and form from cutting, pinning and folding bits of bright blue paper, and used the gaps between the blue pieces to allow the background to emphasise movement and shape. Fascinating. Apart from that, there was an extensive collection of Monet, Van Gogh, Gauguin, Dali, Picasso. Then the less inspiring minimal stuff by Mondrian et al! A lot of stuff by Warhol, including his famous baked beans pic and Marilyn.
Met up with Ems in the Irish bar next to the offices, Laura having gone back to work. Baby's lying cross-ways, and if he doesn't turn, it's looking like Emma will be having a C-section the first week in December. With Xmas looming, Emma is trying to get things organised well in advance, because she knows she's going to be very busy soon. Xmas decorations out in the corner of the room ready to trim. Cake made, but unable to find marzipan in the shops, as well as some spices, double cream, caster sugar, to name just a few. So between us we looked up Delia and now home-made marzipan sits in the freezer, ready for assembly nearer the time!
After the usual long 12 hr day, Laura rejoined us and we all went off into Chinatown to Shanghai Asian Manor. Great, good value food and helpful, courteous staff. Tried the famous soup dumplings, soft doughy dumplings filled with pork and broth, which oozes out when you pierce them. Also the lovely "pot stickers", which I've made with Lizzy before now.
The following day was a chilly start, with a drop in temperature of about 12'degC. Laura had booked the day off. Caught the tube to Grand Central Station, a wonderful temple of a building, softly lit with dozens of opulent chandeliers, gateways to trains resembling doorways into rooms in a museum or national library. Very Grand indeed and well worth a visit, even if you're not catching a train. A little time to kill, so we all sat with a coffee, listening to a couple playing fiddle, called the Poor Cousins. Really relaxing Irish folk music. All this before 9am! Caught the northbound train to Wassaic, Connecticut, a couple of hours away, and then a short, not very fragrant taxi ride to Interlaken Resort hotel, where we spent the night. Accommodation generally around here is very expensive, but Emma had done some research and found this taste of the country outside NY. The countryside is hilly but not mountainous here, quite swampy and wooded, East of the Hudson River, with pretty wooden traditional houses. The hotel is situated near a lake with an impossible Native American Indian name, but it was a bit too cold for a walk down there, so we opted for a more sheltered one in the woods nearby. A recent dusting of snow and frost gave the landscape a very fitting winter feel, to suit its Swiss name! Back to the hotel and a rest for Emma, whilst Ian and I went off for a session in the gym, and my first one mile run in years! The evening meal was excellent, with a wide variety of starters and entrees. I opted for Swiss chard and Granny Smith apple salad, followed by Arctic char, which is a bit like cod but tastier.
We returned in time for lunch back in Brooklyn, the following day, and caught up with news of home and relatives on the journey back. Had lunch at a great little cafe in Fort Green, called Olea,specialising in tapas. Very busy, and buzzing atmosphere. Everything we ordered was so tasty and reasonably priced, including wine in a carafe, rather than the often overpriced bottles!
Felt sad to be leaving but the girls have a busy few weeks ahead of them, with friends from UK staying, baby shower to attend and baby to prepare for! Strange to think that before we leave to come home, there will be another little baby in the family!
Wednesday, 19 November 2014
Sunday, 3 August 2014
La Marmotte 2014 by Ian Webster
La Marmotte Cyclosportive 2014 by Ian Webster
Before I forget the details, I thought I would write down my experience of the La Marmotte for posterity and for anyone who is considering doing it. For some, there will be too much detail for others, not enough. Anyone wanting more information or too pass comment please contact me on ianwebster1@compuserve.com
La Marmotte was one of the original cyclosportives first run in 1982. If takes place on the first Saturday in July from Le Bourg d'Oisans near Grenoble in the French Alps and finishes on the Alpe d'Huez, the famous 1000 metre climb often used in the Tour de France. It is 174 kilometres (108 miles) in length, but more importantly, and worryingly, includes over 5000 metres (16800ft) of ascent over the Col du Glandon, Col du Telegraph, Col du Galibier and the Alpe d'Huez. All of these climbs are often used in the Tour de France and are all "hors categorie". In other words - long and hard! It is named after the large ground squirrel often seen in the high Alps. It is a cuddly and docile looking animal so not a lot in common with this event!
I have been cycling for last 4 years, having been a classic overweight, stressed middle aged man who ate and drank too much. I managed to get fit and get my weight down to just less than 80kg from 97kg four years previously. I have entered a number of UK Sportives up to 100 miles in length and had enjoyed cycling in the Alps for previous 3 years. I always said that I would do the Marmotte when I was 60, so here I was, committed and about to be in France on the 5 July when most of UK was in Yorkshire watching the Tour. I lost count of the number of times that I had to explain why I was not in UK when I was "supposed" to love cycling and lived 15 miles away from the greatest event of the year!
Preparation
Some people just want to complete the event in any time; others like this year's elite winner, Peter Pouly want to do it in under 6 hours. For me, I want to make the gold standard ( under 9hrs 27 mins for my age group) and preferably get close to 8.5 hrs.
There was two elements to my training - start winter training early to build up my endurance and make sure that I included some serious amount of climbing, preferably in the Alps, prior to the event. I am very fortunate that I am retired, so could devote time to both aspects. It is not essential to do the latter, indeed a luxury for many, but, I find that unless you are especially fit, it is important to complete 2/3 long climbs to acclimatise your body and back! That is not easy to do in the UK as we do not have similar length climbs of several miles. I find the gradient isn't the problem, most of them are between 7% and 8%, but getting used to over an hour of continual climbing takes it's toll.
I steadily increased my mileage to 1000 miles a month for May and June having done 600 - 800 miles in March and April.
I was also concerned that I had not ridden more than 10000 ft of climbing in one day, and then found that I struggled on the next 2/3 climbs especially in the Alps. I would need to pace myself better. I have a habit of "clogging it" up the first big climb and then suffering especially as temperature goes up in the afternoon. This was my biggest concern - reaching the bottom of the Alpe d'Huez after 100 miles and 4000 metres of ascent to be faced with an unrelenting 8% gradient and 1000 metre ascent in 30 degrees of heat. For me, this meant using a heart rate monitor and ensuring I kept to about 135 - 140 bpm - about 85% of max (162 ) on the climbs.
Incidentally, making sure you get into the event takes planning, as it sells out in 24 hours. You need to make sure you know the opening entry date which us usually about end of November.
The Event 5 July 2014
We managed to get into the French Alps three weeks previous to event and did several climbs with my wife Marie. Two ascents of Mont Ventoux, Col de Bonette, Col d'Allos and Col d'Agnel plus a few smaller climbs in the Drome were great preparation along with 34 chainset and 29 tooth granny gear. I got used to ascending at about 135 bpm or 6-7 mph on on most climbs.
We have a campervan and arrived in Bourg on the Wednesday before, camping at the base of the Alpe. This is ideal. Some people stay in Alpe d'Huez which is great when you finish but not much fun when descending to start at 7am in 8/9 degrees.
I decided to cycle up the Alpe on the Thursday to register but took it easy. Rested on the Friday.
With 7000 entrants, it's a busy start but well organised. The elite go off early at 7.15; old gits like me much later! I went through the start at about 8am.
I took two water bottles filled with energy drink plus several bars. The weather forecast was looking good - sunny spells with 22 degrees.
You need to have your wits about you for the first few miles as people overtake and are overtaken on both sides of road. I stayed in middle mostly and kept safe. By the time you start the climb of the Col du Glandon, 10 miles later, it is usually more settled. There is a steep climb to Le Rivier followed by a descent and then a very steep climb out of valley. Be ready for this and engage granny gear quick! A lot didn't and it wasn't easy to circumnavigate the casualties with crunching gears and attemps to re-cleat!
One of the best bits about the Marmotte, is that due to safety reasons, the descent off Glandon is neutralised so you can eat and drink at summit without worrying about time. Just as well really, as it is a bit chaotic with so many riders arriving. Just remember to cross timing mat.
Felt OK as had kept to my 135 bpm guide on ascent
The descent down Glandon to the Maurienne valley is beautiful, especially when not pressurised by the clock. Once in the valley at Sainte Marie de Cuines, you cross another timing mat and then up the valley to St Michel. You would think with so many riders, getting into a group would be easy, but found myself on my own just out of reach of group ahead by about 100 metres and pushing hard to catch for some time. I thought I was on my own until I looked around and saw 50 riders in a line behind me!
Eventually a Spanish guy did his turn and I arrived at base of Col du Telegraph not as fresh as I would have liked.
The climb from the valley at 500 metres to top of the Galibier at 2650 metres via the Telegraph is one of the iconic climbs in the Alps and a must for most cyclists. The Telegraph climb is at about 7% for most of its length and then a short descent to Valloire and the feed station at the beginning of the Galibier ascent. I overtook about 40/50 people on the climb and was feeling reasonably comfortable, although any feelings of discomfort would have been an indulgence compared with the one legged cyclist who amazed everyone with his efforts.
Having eaten, and refilled my bottles at Valloire I started ascent of Galibier. The first half is not too bad but the climb from the Le Plan Lachat is at about 9% for 7 kilometres. Starting to see some cyclists suffering now, but kept my rhythm and overtook another 30/40 people.
There is a feed station at the summit but I decided to miss it, as I roughly calculated that I could possibly finish in less than 9 hours allowing for roughly an hour to Bourg and an hour and half up the Alpe if I just allowed for one more feed stop in Bourg.
The descent from Galibier makes the climb more than worthwhile. The views of La Meije glacier are stunning and the closed road means you can really let go on descent to Le Bourg. I often freewheel on descents but was determined to get down as quickly as possible averaging about 27mph. I wouldn't like to go through some of those tunnels at that speed when there is traffic!
A quick refuel at base of the Alpe and resisted temptation to pop into campsite for a coke, then start final ascent to finish.
Using granny gear, managed to keep up good rhythm and, again, overtook many cyclists on ascent. Even managed to really push on final kilometre when it gets easier. Crossed line in time of 8 hrs 26 mins, having taken about 1 hr 15 mins on climb.
Well pleased. My wife said I looked ashen but actually felt ok although very emotional. I think it is the anticipation, training, worry and then relief that wells up.
Picked up my certificate and went back down the mountain as more and more cyclists continue to climb to finish. It was reasonably warm but not as hot as some previous years, but a number of people struggled with the heat. There were lots of willing supporters with water thankfully.
My position was 2450 out of 6400 so in top 40%. The winner in my age category did it in 7 hrs!
My average heart rate was 75% of max.
In summary
Iconic event but I think you need to train for it if you want to complete without too much trauma. It is well organised but busy. Nervous riders may want start off later. Fast riders earlier.
Minimise stops by carrying food and drink if you want best time, but not Glandon! Looking back I could have managed with just Valloire after Glandon if I had filled both bottles.
It may be obvious to many, but finding a comfortable climbing cadence and heart rate made all the difference to me. It filled me with with confidence and I actually approached the Alpe feeling good!
Even climbing the Alpe to register and taking it easy gave me confidence.
On returning to UK I decided to do faster shorter training runs as was worried that I would have become one paced. That coupled with Alpine experience meant that, at next sportive ( Etape Pennines) I did better than I expected.
Before I forget the details, I thought I would write down my experience of the La Marmotte for posterity and for anyone who is considering doing it. For some, there will be too much detail for others, not enough. Anyone wanting more information or too pass comment please contact me on ianwebster1@compuserve.com
La Marmotte was one of the original cyclosportives first run in 1982. If takes place on the first Saturday in July from Le Bourg d'Oisans near Grenoble in the French Alps and finishes on the Alpe d'Huez, the famous 1000 metre climb often used in the Tour de France. It is 174 kilometres (108 miles) in length, but more importantly, and worryingly, includes over 5000 metres (16800ft) of ascent over the Col du Glandon, Col du Telegraph, Col du Galibier and the Alpe d'Huez. All of these climbs are often used in the Tour de France and are all "hors categorie". In other words - long and hard! It is named after the large ground squirrel often seen in the high Alps. It is a cuddly and docile looking animal so not a lot in common with this event!
I have been cycling for last 4 years, having been a classic overweight, stressed middle aged man who ate and drank too much. I managed to get fit and get my weight down to just less than 80kg from 97kg four years previously. I have entered a number of UK Sportives up to 100 miles in length and had enjoyed cycling in the Alps for previous 3 years. I always said that I would do the Marmotte when I was 60, so here I was, committed and about to be in France on the 5 July when most of UK was in Yorkshire watching the Tour. I lost count of the number of times that I had to explain why I was not in UK when I was "supposed" to love cycling and lived 15 miles away from the greatest event of the year!
Preparation
Some people just want to complete the event in any time; others like this year's elite winner, Peter Pouly want to do it in under 6 hours. For me, I want to make the gold standard ( under 9hrs 27 mins for my age group) and preferably get close to 8.5 hrs.
There was two elements to my training - start winter training early to build up my endurance and make sure that I included some serious amount of climbing, preferably in the Alps, prior to the event. I am very fortunate that I am retired, so could devote time to both aspects. It is not essential to do the latter, indeed a luxury for many, but, I find that unless you are especially fit, it is important to complete 2/3 long climbs to acclimatise your body and back! That is not easy to do in the UK as we do not have similar length climbs of several miles. I find the gradient isn't the problem, most of them are between 7% and 8%, but getting used to over an hour of continual climbing takes it's toll.
I steadily increased my mileage to 1000 miles a month for May and June having done 600 - 800 miles in March and April.
I was also concerned that I had not ridden more than 10000 ft of climbing in one day, and then found that I struggled on the next 2/3 climbs especially in the Alps. I would need to pace myself better. I have a habit of "clogging it" up the first big climb and then suffering especially as temperature goes up in the afternoon. This was my biggest concern - reaching the bottom of the Alpe d'Huez after 100 miles and 4000 metres of ascent to be faced with an unrelenting 8% gradient and 1000 metre ascent in 30 degrees of heat. For me, this meant using a heart rate monitor and ensuring I kept to about 135 - 140 bpm - about 85% of max (162 ) on the climbs.
Incidentally, making sure you get into the event takes planning, as it sells out in 24 hours. You need to make sure you know the opening entry date which us usually about end of November.
The Event 5 July 2014
We managed to get into the French Alps three weeks previous to event and did several climbs with my wife Marie. Two ascents of Mont Ventoux, Col de Bonette, Col d'Allos and Col d'Agnel plus a few smaller climbs in the Drome were great preparation along with 34 chainset and 29 tooth granny gear. I got used to ascending at about 135 bpm or 6-7 mph on on most climbs.
We have a campervan and arrived in Bourg on the Wednesday before, camping at the base of the Alpe. This is ideal. Some people stay in Alpe d'Huez which is great when you finish but not much fun when descending to start at 7am in 8/9 degrees.
I decided to cycle up the Alpe on the Thursday to register but took it easy. Rested on the Friday.
With 7000 entrants, it's a busy start but well organised. The elite go off early at 7.15; old gits like me much later! I went through the start at about 8am.
I took two water bottles filled with energy drink plus several bars. The weather forecast was looking good - sunny spells with 22 degrees.
You need to have your wits about you for the first few miles as people overtake and are overtaken on both sides of road. I stayed in middle mostly and kept safe. By the time you start the climb of the Col du Glandon, 10 miles later, it is usually more settled. There is a steep climb to Le Rivier followed by a descent and then a very steep climb out of valley. Be ready for this and engage granny gear quick! A lot didn't and it wasn't easy to circumnavigate the casualties with crunching gears and attemps to re-cleat!
One of the best bits about the Marmotte, is that due to safety reasons, the descent off Glandon is neutralised so you can eat and drink at summit without worrying about time. Just as well really, as it is a bit chaotic with so many riders arriving. Just remember to cross timing mat.
Felt OK as had kept to my 135 bpm guide on ascent
The descent down Glandon to the Maurienne valley is beautiful, especially when not pressurised by the clock. Once in the valley at Sainte Marie de Cuines, you cross another timing mat and then up the valley to St Michel. You would think with so many riders, getting into a group would be easy, but found myself on my own just out of reach of group ahead by about 100 metres and pushing hard to catch for some time. I thought I was on my own until I looked around and saw 50 riders in a line behind me!
Eventually a Spanish guy did his turn and I arrived at base of Col du Telegraph not as fresh as I would have liked.
The climb from the valley at 500 metres to top of the Galibier at 2650 metres via the Telegraph is one of the iconic climbs in the Alps and a must for most cyclists. The Telegraph climb is at about 7% for most of its length and then a short descent to Valloire and the feed station at the beginning of the Galibier ascent. I overtook about 40/50 people on the climb and was feeling reasonably comfortable, although any feelings of discomfort would have been an indulgence compared with the one legged cyclist who amazed everyone with his efforts.
Having eaten, and refilled my bottles at Valloire I started ascent of Galibier. The first half is not too bad but the climb from the Le Plan Lachat is at about 9% for 7 kilometres. Starting to see some cyclists suffering now, but kept my rhythm and overtook another 30/40 people.
There is a feed station at the summit but I decided to miss it, as I roughly calculated that I could possibly finish in less than 9 hours allowing for roughly an hour to Bourg and an hour and half up the Alpe if I just allowed for one more feed stop in Bourg.
The descent from Galibier makes the climb more than worthwhile. The views of La Meije glacier are stunning and the closed road means you can really let go on descent to Le Bourg. I often freewheel on descents but was determined to get down as quickly as possible averaging about 27mph. I wouldn't like to go through some of those tunnels at that speed when there is traffic!
A quick refuel at base of the Alpe and resisted temptation to pop into campsite for a coke, then start final ascent to finish.
Using granny gear, managed to keep up good rhythm and, again, overtook many cyclists on ascent. Even managed to really push on final kilometre when it gets easier. Crossed line in time of 8 hrs 26 mins, having taken about 1 hr 15 mins on climb.
Well pleased. My wife said I looked ashen but actually felt ok although very emotional. I think it is the anticipation, training, worry and then relief that wells up.
Picked up my certificate and went back down the mountain as more and more cyclists continue to climb to finish. It was reasonably warm but not as hot as some previous years, but a number of people struggled with the heat. There were lots of willing supporters with water thankfully.
My position was 2450 out of 6400 so in top 40%. The winner in my age category did it in 7 hrs!
My average heart rate was 75% of max.
In summary
Iconic event but I think you need to train for it if you want to complete without too much trauma. It is well organised but busy. Nervous riders may want start off later. Fast riders earlier.
Minimise stops by carrying food and drink if you want best time, but not Glandon! Looking back I could have managed with just Valloire after Glandon if I had filled both bottles.
It may be obvious to many, but finding a comfortable climbing cadence and heart rate made all the difference to me. It filled me with with confidence and I actually approached the Alpe feeling good!
Even climbing the Alpe to register and taking it easy gave me confidence.
On returning to UK I decided to do faster shorter training runs as was worried that I would have become one paced. That coupled with Alpine experience meant that, at next sportive ( Etape Pennines) I did better than I expected.
Wednesday, 23 July 2014
Etape Pennines 2014
Etape Pennines
When we applied for the Etape Caledonia, we were told it was fully booked, but you could enter, if you signed up for the double with the Etape Pennines. A bit cheeky, but we thought it would be good to explore new cycling territory. So a month earlier, we drove over to Barnard Castle in County Durham, and reccied the route, which starts there. Barnard Castle is a very attractive market town with a castle, High Force waterfall and miles and miles of moorland on the doorstep. We did a slightly shorter route, because it was only a few days after the Etape Caledonia, so got a slightly false sense of just how hilly it was!
On the day of the race, we cycled up to the start at 6.15am! A closed road event, but they clearly wanted the minimum of disruption to traffic, as we would likely be finished by lunchtime! The route takes you up past High Force, into Weardale, up several hills and over to the highest metalled road in Britain, apparently. Once over that, it was a steep, fast descent into Weardale, going north towards Northumbria. Up and down to Ireshopeburn, north over the moor to Hunstanworth, up some more roads with arrows on them, south to Stanhope, another nasty climb out and back over the moors to Eggleston, and a super fast descent to Barnard Castle. Only 62miles but tough, with 7500' ascent. Really pleased with average of 12mph, which brought me in in 5hrs 10mins. Ian had an amazing ride, averaging 15.1mph in 4hrs 05 mins. Think we both felt that our time in the Alps had helped a lot.
The following day we moved on to explore Hawes, on the route of the depart of the Tour de France, Leeds to Harrogate. In fact, they went right past the campsite, where we were staying, on route for the Cote de Buttertubs! Great site, within a short walk of Hawes, six pubs and the delicious Black Sheep bitter!
The following day was hot and sunny as we set off up Buttertubs. Apart from a couple of steep short ramps, it's not a daunting climb and short, at about 4miles. The views over the surrounding moorland were gorgeous, as we dropped down to Thwaite and Swaledale. From there on to Keld, where Colin and I called in the Coast to Coast, three years ago. Up the climb to Tan Hill, and the highest pub in Britain. Through Arkengarthdale! Very picturesque and on to Reeth, where we also stayed, and an early shared sandwich and a coke. Over Greets Moss to Redmire village and into Wensleydale. Climbed up Bishopdale and over to Hubberholme, and a brief stop to visit an old church, which Ian remembered visiting with his dad, when he was about ten. His dad showed him the carvings of little mice on some of the pews, carved by the famous "Mouseman". Off again, no time for a restorative pint at The George, which is shut on Tuesdays! A gentle climb up Langstrathdale, which gets very steep towards the top, at 20%! A precarious descent of 17%. Down into Gayle and on to Hawes, and a pint of Black Sheep, finally! Hard cycle! 55miles and 6500' ascent! The climbs around here average about 16%, but are not too long. Well, long enough! But an amazing day. A bit too hot really but incredible. Great route!
When we applied for the Etape Caledonia, we were told it was fully booked, but you could enter, if you signed up for the double with the Etape Pennines. A bit cheeky, but we thought it would be good to explore new cycling territory. So a month earlier, we drove over to Barnard Castle in County Durham, and reccied the route, which starts there. Barnard Castle is a very attractive market town with a castle, High Force waterfall and miles and miles of moorland on the doorstep. We did a slightly shorter route, because it was only a few days after the Etape Caledonia, so got a slightly false sense of just how hilly it was!
On the day of the race, we cycled up to the start at 6.15am! A closed road event, but they clearly wanted the minimum of disruption to traffic, as we would likely be finished by lunchtime! The route takes you up past High Force, into Weardale, up several hills and over to the highest metalled road in Britain, apparently. Once over that, it was a steep, fast descent into Weardale, going north towards Northumbria. Up and down to Ireshopeburn, north over the moor to Hunstanworth, up some more roads with arrows on them, south to Stanhope, another nasty climb out and back over the moors to Eggleston, and a super fast descent to Barnard Castle. Only 62miles but tough, with 7500' ascent. Really pleased with average of 12mph, which brought me in in 5hrs 10mins. Ian had an amazing ride, averaging 15.1mph in 4hrs 05 mins. Think we both felt that our time in the Alps had helped a lot.
The following day we moved on to explore Hawes, on the route of the depart of the Tour de France, Leeds to Harrogate. In fact, they went right past the campsite, where we were staying, on route for the Cote de Buttertubs! Great site, within a short walk of Hawes, six pubs and the delicious Black Sheep bitter!
The following day was hot and sunny as we set off up Buttertubs. Apart from a couple of steep short ramps, it's not a daunting climb and short, at about 4miles. The views over the surrounding moorland were gorgeous, as we dropped down to Thwaite and Swaledale. From there on to Keld, where Colin and I called in the Coast to Coast, three years ago. Up the climb to Tan Hill, and the highest pub in Britain. Through Arkengarthdale! Very picturesque and on to Reeth, where we also stayed, and an early shared sandwich and a coke. Over Greets Moss to Redmire village and into Wensleydale. Climbed up Bishopdale and over to Hubberholme, and a brief stop to visit an old church, which Ian remembered visiting with his dad, when he was about ten. His dad showed him the carvings of little mice on some of the pews, carved by the famous "Mouseman". Off again, no time for a restorative pint at The George, which is shut on Tuesdays! A gentle climb up Langstrathdale, which gets very steep towards the top, at 20%! A precarious descent of 17%. Down into Gayle and on to Hawes, and a pint of Black Sheep, finally! Hard cycle! 55miles and 6500' ascent! The climbs around here average about 16%, but are not too long. Well, long enough! But an amazing day. A bit too hot really but incredible. Great route!
Tuesday, 8 July 2014
Tour comes to Cassel
The Tour de France comes through Cassel
After Guignicourt we drove up to Eperleques, near St Omer in Flanders. Heavy rain most of the way up! A flattish not particularly scenic area, known mainly for the impact the first and second world wars had on it. We arrived here at about lunchtime and by 2pm were out on our bikes watching the Tour come through Cassel. Not the crowds we'd seen in Yorkshire, but still good fun and support, particularly seeing my favourite Tomas Voeckler out front, straining and pulling his usual faces. Lovely climb up to Cassel, which we'd definitely come back to in the future, maybe giving ourselves an extra day here to explore Belgium, which is only about 20miles away. 32miles at a lovely faster speed.
Catching the Chunnel tomorrow after a fantastic and memorable time in France. Looking forward to getting home though!
After Guignicourt we drove up to Eperleques, near St Omer in Flanders. Heavy rain most of the way up! A flattish not particularly scenic area, known mainly for the impact the first and second world wars had on it. We arrived here at about lunchtime and by 2pm were out on our bikes watching the Tour come through Cassel. Not the crowds we'd seen in Yorkshire, but still good fun and support, particularly seeing my favourite Tomas Voeckler out front, straining and pulling his usual faces. Lovely climb up to Cassel, which we'd definitely come back to in the future, maybe giving ourselves an extra day here to explore Belgium, which is only about 20miles away. 32miles at a lovely faster speed.
Catching the Chunnel tomorrow after a fantastic and memorable time in France. Looking forward to getting home though!
La Marmotte
The day of reckoning has arrived for Ian! Spent all year training hard for this event. Lots of climbing and distance. The route goes over Col du Glandon, down to St Marie de Cuines on to St Jean de Maurienne, which we've already done so far, but on to Col du Telegraphe, over to the biggest climb of the day, Col du Galibier, all the way down to Bourg d'Oisan, some 25 miles, and the tough climb up the Alpe d'Huez, at potentially the hottest part of the day, with very tired legs, to the finish! 110 miles and 16600' climbing. Really tough but very stunning scenery and a classic circuit, much beloved by the Dutch and celebrated as a classic event. Very difficult to enter, in that it gets booked up almost immediately.
Having told a few people he was going to do it, Ian was beginning to doubt he was up to it. Hoped he might do it in about 9 hours.
I had always wanted to ascend Galibier from Bourg. Not a particularly difficult task, but a classic route following the Romanche river up past the barrage, through several badly lit tunnels, on to La Grave, with spectacular views of the Meige Glacier and then zigzagging up to the Col du Lauteret, where the real climbing starts. Although a long 20 miles so far, the gradient is rarely steeper than 8%. But from Lauteret, you frequently see 10% on the climb up to Col du Galibier, where I started to see more and more cyclists summitting from the Valloire side. Must be doing the shorter version of the Marmotte. The speed some of the faster cyclists descended down to Lauteret and eventually on to Bourg was breath-taking and frightening. I was glad of my flashing lights in the tunnels, as cyclists zipped past me with no lights, at twice the speed. I was doing about 28mph!
I was glad to see the back of them at the reservoir, as I ascended the climb up to Col de Sarenne to transit over to the finish on Alpe d'Huez. Wouldn't be able to follow the riders up the Alpe, so chose this route so at least I could see Ian at the finish.
Climbing up Col de Sarenne after Galibier was quite tough, but I was ready for it, as I'd descended the same road only a few days ago. The freshly laid gravel made the steep ascent tougher, because getting out of the saddle was difficult with rear wheel spinning in the loose gravel! Anyway made it to the top and cycled over to the top of the Alpe, to see Ian come in a few hours later, in an impressive 8hrs 26mins. Amazing and recognised as gold standard. So proud of him. The weather had played a part. Cloudy and pleasant with little wind. The sun came out later in the afternoon to really punish the poor beggars who were already suffering and coming in much later. As we descended a few hours later, there were people walking up at the 4th hairpin with 17 more to go! They looked exhausted and hot!
Ian was really pleased with his performance and was in good shape. For me, it had been a tough but enjoyable day. 65miles and 10800' ascent.
The following day we set off on the long journey home, breaking it at Guignicourt, just north of Reims.
Having told a few people he was going to do it, Ian was beginning to doubt he was up to it. Hoped he might do it in about 9 hours.
I had always wanted to ascend Galibier from Bourg. Not a particularly difficult task, but a classic route following the Romanche river up past the barrage, through several badly lit tunnels, on to La Grave, with spectacular views of the Meige Glacier and then zigzagging up to the Col du Lauteret, where the real climbing starts. Although a long 20 miles so far, the gradient is rarely steeper than 8%. But from Lauteret, you frequently see 10% on the climb up to Col du Galibier, where I started to see more and more cyclists summitting from the Valloire side. Must be doing the shorter version of the Marmotte. The speed some of the faster cyclists descended down to Lauteret and eventually on to Bourg was breath-taking and frightening. I was glad of my flashing lights in the tunnels, as cyclists zipped past me with no lights, at twice the speed. I was doing about 28mph!
I was glad to see the back of them at the reservoir, as I ascended the climb up to Col de Sarenne to transit over to the finish on Alpe d'Huez. Wouldn't be able to follow the riders up the Alpe, so chose this route so at least I could see Ian at the finish.
Climbing up Col de Sarenne after Galibier was quite tough, but I was ready for it, as I'd descended the same road only a few days ago. The freshly laid gravel made the steep ascent tougher, because getting out of the saddle was difficult with rear wheel spinning in the loose gravel! Anyway made it to the top and cycled over to the top of the Alpe, to see Ian come in a few hours later, in an impressive 8hrs 26mins. Amazing and recognised as gold standard. So proud of him. The weather had played a part. Cloudy and pleasant with little wind. The sun came out later in the afternoon to really punish the poor beggars who were already suffering and coming in much later. As we descended a few hours later, there were people walking up at the 4th hairpin with 17 more to go! They looked exhausted and hot!
Ian was really pleased with his performance and was in good shape. For me, it had been a tough but enjoyable day. 65miles and 10800' ascent.
The following day we set off on the long journey home, breaking it at Guignicourt, just north of Reims.
Alpe D'Huez
Whilst Ian started reluctantly to wind down,("I'm not doing this again, cos there's a lot I want to do, but have to think about resting!), I went off and had more fun in the mountains. Aiming to continue this new phase of more distance, summitting a col and dropping down into pastures new and another valley, I cycled a route which took me up Alpe d'Huez, attempting a faster time than last year, over to the Col de Sarenne, which, literally minutes earlier had acquired brand new Tarmac and a shed-load of loose grit. Not good for the tyres and even worse for the very steep and tricky descent into the Ferrand valley, where I've never been before. Saw our Belgian neighbour from Allemont, who'd managed the steep ascent from the Ferrand valley! He'd been into Bourg the previous day to get a new cassette for his bike, especially for this ascent!
The narrow road winds down to the dam at the Barrage du Chambon, on the road to Galibier. Then it climbs again up to Auris and a spectacular high-level balcony road which clings to the side of the hill, hundreds of feet above the valley. A single track road, twisting and turning, requiring concentration, but amazing. Comes out at La Garde, number 16 on the 21virages of the Alpe d'Huez, so quite low down!
Managed the ascent of the Alpe in 1hr 25mins and 42secs, wiping nearly 4 whole minutes off my previous time, so well-chuffed! Overall distance today 32 miles and 5000' ascent. Ian cycled up the Alpe taking if steady to register in the afternoon.
In the evening we'd went to la Romanche restaurant which is best in Bourg. Full of Dutch and equivalent noise!
The following day, Ian went stir crazy and rested at the van, whilst I went off on the beautiful road to La Berarde. Saw a very large, very dead pine marten at the side of the road. Another spectacular balcony route, in places, culminating in a dead-end and a mountainous full-stop at the hamlet of La Berarde. The Barre des Ecrins in front of you, the highest being Mt Pelvoux at 3946m. Stunning. 41 miles and 3876' ascent.
Marmotte tomorrow and my date with Galibier!
The narrow road winds down to the dam at the Barrage du Chambon, on the road to Galibier. Then it climbs again up to Auris and a spectacular high-level balcony road which clings to the side of the hill, hundreds of feet above the valley. A single track road, twisting and turning, requiring concentration, but amazing. Comes out at La Garde, number 16 on the 21virages of the Alpe d'Huez, so quite low down!
Managed the ascent of the Alpe in 1hr 25mins and 42secs, wiping nearly 4 whole minutes off my previous time, so well-chuffed! Overall distance today 32 miles and 5000' ascent. Ian cycled up the Alpe taking if steady to register in the afternoon.
In the evening we'd went to la Romanche restaurant which is best in Bourg. Full of Dutch and equivalent noise!
The following day, Ian went stir crazy and rested at the van, whilst I went off on the beautiful road to La Berarde. Saw a very large, very dead pine marten at the side of the road. Another spectacular balcony route, in places, culminating in a dead-end and a mountainous full-stop at the hamlet of La Berarde. The Barre des Ecrins in front of you, the highest being Mt Pelvoux at 3946m. Stunning. 41 miles and 3876' ascent.
Marmotte tomorrow and my date with Galibier!
Col de Glandon and Croix de Fer Circuit
Lovely day for the Col de La Croix de Fer circuit
After the efforts of the Vaujany, we just pottered up to Villard Reculas on the Monday and continued on a little of the balcony road, but didn't go far, as we have a longer expedition organised for the following day. It's a cracking circuit but again a long one. If you want to drop down into a different valley a take in more than one col, it's always going to be a long day. But we're in no rush!
I set off half an hour ahead of Ian, climbing the long straight section up to La Rivier, going North of Allemont. Five miles of steady climbing! Ian's going to have to do this all again, in a few days time when he cycles the Marmotte challenge, so it's more practice for him. After the massive hydro-electric dam and lake of the Grand Maison, there's the last ascent up to the Col du Glandon. The mouse had just been caught by the cat! First break of the day, and a coffee at the cafe. Not following the lovely final climb which sweeps around up to my favourite col, the Croix de Fer. But we will come to that later in the day. Over the Col du Glandon, and down the other side into the Vallee des Villards. Beautiful descent through alpine meadows and following the river all the way down to the little town of St Marie de Cuines, on to St Etienne de Cuines and eventually St Jean de Maurienne in the valley of the same name. Time to grab a sandwich and two cokes each, before beginning the long gradual climb up to St Jean d'Arves, getting steeper as you cycle through St Sorlin d'Arves. Told Ian to get off at his own pace and I'd see him back at the van!
A little pause for a swig of water at the curious church of St Sorlin, with its funereal crafted iron and silver wreaths, fixed all over the outside walls. Last slow pull out of the ski village, which the local cafe owner at the summit later told me was 65% owned by the Dutch in the form of second homes. No wonder the place is full of them! Fun-loving and friendly, but you wouldn't chose to sit next to them on a restaurant! A bit loud!
A celebratory hot chocolate at the friendly cafe and a chat, a bit one-sided, with family members of the owner. Off on the final descent home, sweeping past the turn-off for Glandon from earlier in the day. Fast but careful descent into Articol, and eventually past Vaujany and into Allemont. Tough day but fantastic. 72miles and 11000' ascent.
Weather was rubbish the following day so made it a rest day! Moved the van down the road a few miles to Bourg d'Oisan, in preparation for the start of the Marmotte. Site now in Peak season and costing 45euros per night, as opposed to 16 at Allemont, and the cheeky beggars want all you payment up front, which we've never known anywhere else in France. We'll stay at Allemont next time. They may have a lovely swimming pool, but so what!
More about the Marmotte later, but Ian's spent all year doing lots of miles and climbing in preparation for this race. Extremely tough and not for the faint-hearted (that covers me then!).
After the efforts of the Vaujany, we just pottered up to Villard Reculas on the Monday and continued on a little of the balcony road, but didn't go far, as we have a longer expedition organised for the following day. It's a cracking circuit but again a long one. If you want to drop down into a different valley a take in more than one col, it's always going to be a long day. But we're in no rush!
I set off half an hour ahead of Ian, climbing the long straight section up to La Rivier, going North of Allemont. Five miles of steady climbing! Ian's going to have to do this all again, in a few days time when he cycles the Marmotte challenge, so it's more practice for him. After the massive hydro-electric dam and lake of the Grand Maison, there's the last ascent up to the Col du Glandon. The mouse had just been caught by the cat! First break of the day, and a coffee at the cafe. Not following the lovely final climb which sweeps around up to my favourite col, the Croix de Fer. But we will come to that later in the day. Over the Col du Glandon, and down the other side into the Vallee des Villards. Beautiful descent through alpine meadows and following the river all the way down to the little town of St Marie de Cuines, on to St Etienne de Cuines and eventually St Jean de Maurienne in the valley of the same name. Time to grab a sandwich and two cokes each, before beginning the long gradual climb up to St Jean d'Arves, getting steeper as you cycle through St Sorlin d'Arves. Told Ian to get off at his own pace and I'd see him back at the van!
A little pause for a swig of water at the curious church of St Sorlin, with its funereal crafted iron and silver wreaths, fixed all over the outside walls. Last slow pull out of the ski village, which the local cafe owner at the summit later told me was 65% owned by the Dutch in the form of second homes. No wonder the place is full of them! Fun-loving and friendly, but you wouldn't chose to sit next to them on a restaurant! A bit loud!
A celebratory hot chocolate at the friendly cafe and a chat, a bit one-sided, with family members of the owner. Off on the final descent home, sweeping past the turn-off for Glandon from earlier in the day. Fast but careful descent into Articol, and eventually past Vaujany and into Allemont. Tough day but fantastic. 72miles and 11000' ascent.
Weather was rubbish the following day so made it a rest day! Moved the van down the road a few miles to Bourg d'Oisan, in preparation for the start of the Marmotte. Site now in Peak season and costing 45euros per night, as opposed to 16 at Allemont, and the cheeky beggars want all you payment up front, which we've never known anywhere else in France. We'll stay at Allemont next time. They may have a lovely swimming pool, but so what!
More about the Marmotte later, but Ian's spent all year doing lots of miles and climbing in preparation for this race. Extremely tough and not for the faint-hearted (that covers me then!).
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