The Giant of Provence lived up to its reputation during the final stage. On the morning of the third and final stage, many were somewhat anxious.
The Giant of Provence is intimidating… especially when you haven’t yet tamed it.
Indeed, Mont Ventoux is one of those mythical places that holds a special resonance in the collective imagination. The region has actually become a true “Mecca” for cycling in a few years.
People come from all over the world to take on the mountain and feel the thrill of cycling. An entire economy has been structured to meet the demand: bike shops, hotels, restaurants, souvenirs…
After a sporty breakfast, the 25 participants set off for a 10km warm-up heading to the small village of Bédoin, starting point of the most prestigious route. The weather is optimal. The final instructions were given by the coaches, then the group quickly stretched out. The first part of the ascent, an easy 6km to Saint Estève, was quickly swallowed up.
At the famous Saint Estève bend, the real climb began with 10km at a 10% gradient with no moments of respite. A real “wall”! It’s best to be in good shape to tackle this section. Despite everything, the 34×27 gearing is essential for the majority of amateur cyclists.
At the mythical Chalet Reynard, everyone had a chance to recover and get refreshments at the assistance point set up by the organization. Those most exhausted by the first two stages benefited from the support and advice of the four coaches present (Philippe Angel, Jean-Pierre Camm, Cyrille Fallica, and Jean-Baptiste Wiroth, organizer of the Challenge). But the coaching also happened among participants themselves. In a rare phenomenon, everyone became each other’s coach!
At the summit, the emotion was complete, especially for those experiencing it “for the first time”. A great moment of sharing.
The countryside picnic organized allowed for celebrating the achieved goal with joy and conviviality. Champagne! The beautiful descent towards Sault and the Gorges de la Nesque allowed for ending this great sporting adventure in style.
The next meeting is already set for June 2015. There is one year left to get back into sports and train by cycling!
