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14 September 2006 - 23:53
Spring 2007 Program Details Announced
EuroCycler is pleased to announce the details for our 2007 Spring Training in Gerona, Spain for triahtletes and cyclists. March 2007 will kick off EuroCycler's fifth season, featuring stellar spring training camps for road cycling and triathlon near Girona, Spain. For the coming year, EuroCycler designed five cycling weeks and three triathlon focused camps to jump-start the athletes’ season.
EuroCycler offers athletes of many levels the unique opportunity to train under the guidance of English speaking coaches in the proving grounds of cycling's elite competitors. The triathlon coaches are pro-triathlete and German national team coach Olaf Sabatschus, Andrea Brede of Germany, the women’s European Ironman Champion and Denny De Priest, former USAT national team coach. Among the cycling coaches are Dan Maker and Jack Kershaw, former professional cyclists from the UK. Based on EuroCycler’s proven concept, the leader team provides a fun environment and will focus on training for efficiency and power, geared to optimize time. The typical guest is an age-group triathlete or cyclist with job and family to balance.
“On daily training rides along the scenic Mediterranean, our guests join dozens of European guests and swap training tips with all levels of athletes. Individual needs are catered to with a complete package and a structured athletic program,” says Richard Debrot, president and CEO of EuroCycler, “This is a performance-focused multisport experience for cyclists and triathletes across a range of skill levels, mixed with a dose of natural beauty and culture.”
Included in the package are full carbon road bikes by Scott. The CR1 Team bikes are equipped with triple chain-rings to help guests conquer the challenging European terrain. 7 and 10 day camps also include CaveMan, an Olympic distance practice triathlon race, women specific cycling and triathlon clinics, and a program for non-riding spouses and kids who travel along for an active cultural experience.
EuroCycler’s venue in Spain is an athlete-dedicated beach resort with pools, spa, gym, massage services, bike mechanics and a delicious cuisine that caters to the nutritional needs of athletes. Coach Dan Maker says, “The planning, training design and athlete focus that happens here is better than most professional athletes’ experience.”
EuroCycler draws a majority of its customers from the US and UK. All-inclusive land-packages start at 1,700 $ per person, per week.
The company has already established itself as one of the premier operators for trips to follow the Tour de France every July and also offers camps and clinics in the US, Brazil and Switzerland.
For more information, visit www.eurocycler.com or call 1-866-789-3876.
08 August 2006 - 23:36
EuroCycler season review and 2007 lookout
This note can be viewed with photos and links to videos via the HTML version by clicking here.
For most of you it's the middle of the cycling and triathlon season. For EuroCycler it's the end of the season which means it's time to review reflect on this past season and provide you with information about things to come.
A few notes about what happened after your return from Europe and what is coming next year with EuroCycler...
The year 2006 did not start with cycling but rather skiing since Europe in January is more enjoyable on the slopes of the Alps than on the roads. Richard Debrot led a small group of former summer cycling guests through the Swiss Alps, from deep powder backcountry skiing to steep moguls and fast carving turns. For some "Serious Fun", they stopped in charming chalets for hot chocolate and spent evenings in rustic restaurants dipping bread in cheese fondue and white wine, the traditional Swiss style.
The EuroCycler staff then relocated from the still snow covered mountains to the clear roads and much warmer weather in Girona, Spain to host the first week of cycling training in early March. While Richard was cleaning his car from the last spots of Swiss Snow, Englishman Jack Kershaw had to clear his bike from the sand he picked up in Noosa, Australia, a place that prepared him well for the weeks coaching and guiding EuroCycler guests. After Spain, Jack became English age group Triathlon champion and will represent his country at the ITU World Championship in Lausanne, Switzerland early September.
Among the coaches of EuroCycler's triathlon weeks this past April were Andrea Brede and Olaf Sabatschus, both from Germany and professional triathletes. EuroCycler's May trip to Brazil was Olaf's attempt to win IM-Brazil a third time in a row but, unfortunately, some nutrition issues and a particularly strong performance by Argentinian Oscar Galindez and Australian Luke Bell put the German defending champion third, 10 minutes behind the winner. Olaf's finish time of 8 hrs 25 Minutes was still very respectable given that he walked portions of the marathon run. This finish makes Olaf the most consistent professional IronMan athlete with seven podium wins in seven races. Based on his experience, Olaf was elected German National Long Distance Team Coach, ensuring that German's will maintain a nation of powerhouse triathletes.
Andrea Brede who led EuroCycler's women's week (and whose specific foot and leg exercises made us all sore for awhile!), had a stellar performance at IronMan Germany in Frankfurt. She had her biggest smile ever crossing the finish line, winning in 9:16:17 to become IronMan European Champion. A total of 300.000 enthusiastic spectators were on hand to witness all three disciplines of the race. Thousands gathered around the Roemerberg to cheer the racers in their final meters and provided a warm welcome for the champion. Well, maybe we all need some more of Andrea's special foot exercises.
At the end of June, EuroCycler piloted a new project - a training camp (a ride video can be accessed via the HTML note, click above) for a small number of guests in Switzerland, some used it as preparation for the IronMan race in Zurich. It was said that this race was much tougher than Kona due to a bike course loaded with climbs. A race video of the HeartBreak hill is available via the HTML note. The event was also a nice opportunity to reunite with several EuroCycler Spain guests who flew in from Turkey and the States. Another small EuroCycler reunion happened at the Challenge of Quelle-Roth and in Frankfurt. Other EuroCycler campers competed in Nice and Coeur d'Alene.
And then, in July, EuroCycler's flagship: Tour de France. The truth of cycling does not reveal itself until you conquer several mountains along the Tour. On the program were climbs like Tourmalet, Col de Mente and Peyresourde in the Pyrenees and Alpe d'Huez, Madeleine, Glandon and others in the Alps - and to really learn about your cycling, ride them on consecutive days. View the Alpe d'Huez downhill video here. Guided by Amir Vitis of Switzerland and Dan Maker of England, both experienced EuroCyclers, and with Ascanio's support team, all guests made it well over these climbs, all with pain, some with a bit more pain, but all as very happy campers who toasted to a fantastic finale at Fouquet's on Champs-Elysees in Paris.
Some of you might have mixed feelings about the future of the Tour in its aftermath. I took the liberty to share some of my thoughts and posted them on our EuroCycler Forum, see the post cycling after Tour de France 2006 ? By the way, Landi's B probe tested positive, today, August 4th.
Now we are in the process of designing the 2007 program while at the same time we can see our coaches and many of our guests race at numerous events between Europe and the United States. Have a look at Kona in October, and cross your fingers for Andrea.
The 2007 season will start in February with some tailored Ski vacations in Switzerland and as of March we will host the first cyclist again in Spain. The April weeks are dedicated to Triathlon and then in June we have a week of cycling in Switzerland planned. In July we will be in France again at the Tour which will start July 7th in London, and go clock-wise through the country, meaning first the Alps followed by the Pyrenees.
Olaf and Andrea will be joined by former USAT National Team coach Denny De Priest as our coaches next year. We will have the pleasure of cycling with Dan and Amir again, as well as with Jack from the UK, and maybe a surprise that we reveal in due time.
If you are interested in one of our future trips you can put your name on the wait-list for Spain or France or simply send us an email. Also, if you have a specific request for you or your group, feel free to contact us and we will discuss with you how we can crank out something tailored for you.
Happy cycling and best regards
Richard Debrot and The EuroCycler Team
29 March 2006 - 10:44
2006 Spring Training Camps Spain
EuroCycler is on the road again and currently in the midst of it’s spring training programs for triathletes and cyclists in Girona, Spain. The first two weeks of cycling are over, April 1st is the start of the triathlon programs. Professional Triathlete and IronMan Winner Olaf Sabatschus of Germany has arrived already in Girona, Spain, to lead EuroCycler’s Spring Triathlon Training weeks. He will be joined by Andrea Brede of Germany in a few days who leads the women’s camp. Based on EuroCycler’s proven concept, the leader team, orchestrated by Richard Debrot will focus on training for efficiency and power, geared to optimize time (given that the typical guest is an age-group triathlete or cyclist with job and family to balance). Training sessions during the day and clinics in the evening fill a weekly schedule during which campers can also train alongside Olaf and learn from his experience in preparation of his IM-Brazil championship defense. The most recent Skinfit race gear will be shown and the local store has several items available. 7 and 10 day camps are held during April. For more information and to book, log on to www.eurocycler.com
05 December 2005 - 07:01
EuroCycler launches 2006 Tour de France program
Bala Cynwyd, Pennsylvania Dec. 5, 2006 --- As the buzz builds for 2006 Tour de France, EuroCycler launches a Tour de France riding program that will let cycling fans ride portions of the Tour route themselves and witness a new era of the professional peleton.
EuroCycler specializes in training-focused bicycling vacations for avid cyclists and will feature two trips to the upcoming Tour designed to let guests both see and participate in the excitement of cycling’s greatest race. The first trip will keep up with the peloton during its dramatic charge through the Pyrénées mountain stages. And the second will follow the action into the Alps and all the way to Paris for the thrilling finish on the Champs-Elysées.
EuroCycler guests ride portions of the Tour route just hours ahead of the peloton, as the waiting crowds cheer them on. Among the many highlights of EuroCycler’s trips are climbs such as Tourmalet in the Pyrénées and riding up the fabled switchbacks of Alpe d’Huez. After reaching the summit, guests then witness as the racers take the same ascent. It delivers a whole new appreciation of the race.
To accommodate guests of different riding abilities, EuroCycler offers various levels of ride groups. Each group is led by one of EuroCycler’s elite riding staff, who include former pro’s and veterans of international racing. There is also a program for non-riding spouses and partners, who are able to enjoy exciting sightseeing opportunities and numerous opportunities to view the racers in action from just a few feet away.
EuroCycler’s Tour de France packages include accommodations in select historic hotels, the use of a road bicycle, full ride support, several exclusive dinners and much more. Details of EuroCycler’s Tour de France trips are available at www.eurocycler.com or 1-866-789-EURO.
27 October 2005 - 20:33
The 2006 Tour de France is published
Jacques, Eddy, Bernard, Miguel and Lance. They all wrote long chapters at the Tour, and they all had completed an era. We are likley to enter a new one, and you have the unique chance to be part of it.
The Tour which was announced today, October 27 in Paris. Many details of the 2006 edition are new, but it also follows its historic pattern, next year counter-clock-wise through the country with the finish on Champs-Elysées. It starts Saturday, July 1, and finishes in Paris on Sunday, July 23.
Under new Tour leadership the organizers have designed an event that maximizes the circle within France, riding often very closely to the border - or crossing it. The race sets off in Strasbourg, at the eastern border of the country and touches German soil before going north through Belgium, Luxenbourg and the Netherlands. It continues west with several flat stages in northern France, relocates to Bordeaux and eventually hits the first real climbs with two mountain stages in the Pyrénées. Two flat and fast days will follow and then the big show begins in the Alps with three mountain stages including an arrival on Alpe d'Huez. A time trial in the southern part of the Burgundy and the finish in Paris round it all up.
No doubt the organizers believe that this very classic path for the 2006 Tour de France will satisfy all categories of riders, but the question is who will fill all these new jerseys?
In about two weeks' time EuroCycler will have completed our program details for the portions covering the mountain stages through the finish in Paris. Past prices for a 7 day trip in France with EuroCycler were around 4,000 USD per person without air-fare.
If you would like to join us in France in 2006, we strongly recommend you secure a reservation with us against a fully refundable deposit by 1,000 USD check mailed to us. For further details please contact us at info@eurocycler.com or call us at 1-866-789-3876, from outside US you can call +1-610-747-0805.
For those of you who really plan ahead, check out our Spring Training program for Spain 2006. We're featuring a number of exciting road cycling and triathlon-focused programs. Get in on the early weeks for exposure to the professional cyclists, who also train around our resort. This will bring you in shape for the 2006 Tour de France.
26 September 2005 - 19:17
Hawaii Prep Triathlon Camp in El Paso, TX
Skinfit athlete Olaf Sabatschus of Germany and EuroCycler’s Richard Debrot of Switzerland joined forces to design EuroCycler’s first triathlon training camp in the United States.
The pilot program was supported by another professional triathlete, French national François Modave who lives in El Paso with his wife Melis. Long-time EuroCycler guests Bobby Ruiz and Randee Travis who experienced EuroCycler in Spain, Switzerland and France during pervious camps where the two Guinea-pigs for this first US camp. Both of them benefited from highly individualized one-on-one trainings in all three disciplines in preparation for their race at the IronMan world-championship on Hawaii on October 15th. The two age groupers learned the essence of a EuroCycler camp: Train hard, rest harder and race hardest – a quote by Olaf, double IM-Brazil winner. The next camps are scheduled for March and April in Spain and then again early May in El Paso.
Click here for photos and training programs
23 September 2005 - 16:58
140point6 - A Triathletes Journey
A film about a triathletes journey to complete an iron-man distance
Produced by Weston Wheeler, presented by EuroCycler and Skinfit
140.6 miles, the distance that Ironman Triathletes must complete by swimming 2.4 miles, biking 112 miles and running 26.2 miles, all within 17 hours. This film takes an intimate look at the lives of inspirational achievers, and examines why athletes choose to compete in such a physically demanding event.
This is not about how professional triathletes train.
This film explores how age-group athletes, intrigued by the long-course distance, can be inspired to succeed against the odds. It takes you through the story of 3 first timers as they strive to achieve their goal – first at half-IM Timberman 2005 and then at the IM-Lake Placid 2005.
Followed by an informal discussion with OLAF SABATSCHUS professional triahtlete and coach from Germany. Olaf coaches for efficiency and power. A husband and father, he understands the need of an age-group athlete to optimize time. Olaf uses a strong nutrition focus in his coaching and works with athletes around the world at all levels of ability. Olaf is also one of the coaches at EuroCycler’s spring training camps in Spain.
Program Details:
6:00 PM: Reception at SBR with Olaf Sabatschus and Richard Debrot available to answer questions about triathlon training, EuroCycler training camps and Skinfit gear
8:00 PM: Showtime 140point6
9:00 PM: Informal discussion about the movie with Olaf answering questions about triathlon training for age-group athletes
9:30 PM: conclude
About the hosts:
EuroCycler
Skinfit
To view a trailer of the movie:140point6
19 September 2005 - 16:16
Spring Training in Spain offers top coaches and Triathlon programs
March 2006 kicks off EuroCycler's fourth season, featuring stellar spring training camps for triathlon and road cycling near Girona, Spain. In the coming year, EuroCycler will offer two cycling focused camps and three triathlon camps for a total of over 6 weeks in Spain.
EuroCycler offers athletes of many levels the unique opportunity to train under the guidance of English speaking coaches in the proving grounds of cycling's elite competitors. Among the coaches are Olaf Sabatschuss from Germany, 2-time winner of IM-Brazil (04/05) and the UK’s own Lawrence Oldershaw, double British Long-Distance champion. Based on EuroCycler’s proven concept, the leader team will focus on training for efficiency and power, geared to optimize time (given that the typical guest is an age-group triathlete or cyclist with job and family to balance).
“On daily training rides along the scenic Mediterranean, our guests join dozens of European guests and swap training tips with all levels of athletes. Individual athletic needs are catered to with a complete package and a structured riding program,” says Richard Debrot, president and CEO of EuroCycler, “This is a performance-focused bicycling experience for cyclists and triathletes across a range of skill levels, mixed with a dose of natural beauty and culture.”
New this season are 10-day programs and CaveMan, an Olympic distance practice triathlon race for beginners, and a program for non-riding spouses and kids who travel along for an active cultural experience.
EuroCycler’s venue in Spain is an athlete-dedicated beach resort with pools, spa, gym, massage services, bike mechanics and a delicious cuisine that caters to the nutritional needs of athletes. Coach Lawrence Oldershaw says, “The planning, training design and athlete focus that happens here is better than most professional athletes experience.”
EuroCycler draws a majority of its customers from the US and UK. All-inclusive land-packages start at 1,500 $ per person, per week.
The company plans to offers training packages in the US and has already established itself as one of the premier operators for trips to follow the Tour de France.
For more information, visit www.eurocycler.com or call 1-866-789-3876.
EuroCycler is a sports travel and trading company offering premier performance cycling in Europe's greatest destinations, best-in-class apparel and athletic products for triathlon and cycling. The company is based in Bala Cynwyd, PA.
25 April 2005 - 08:11
Skinfit now available in the USA
On Wednesday April 27, the SkinFit Online Store will launch at our new site www.skinfitusa.com.
A large selection of the Skinfit product range is now available to North-American clients.
EuroCycler, purveyor of European bicycle, triathlon camps and the ultimate trip to the Tour de France, has teamed up with Skinfit to make their unique line of athletic gear available in North America. Skinfit is a family-owned Austrian company that makes high-performance endurance apparel designed by athletes for athletes.
Skinfit’s CEO Werner Battisti says: “With beautiful mountains on our doorstep, we were drawn to the outdoors from an early age. Mountaineering, cycling, running, swimming, climbing, cross-country skiing, ski-touring and cross-training. Pushing our bodies to their limits in this environment is what motivates us to design and manufacture clothing that meets the specific needs of each of these activities - without compromise - but that is also comfortable to wear, anywhere at anytime.”
Skinfit’s unique combination of wicking technologies, functional cuts and extremely lightweight and skin-friendly materials ensure freedom of movement. Fashion-conscious design makes their garments eminently wearable. To ensure uncompromising functionality, all products are tested under extreme conditions. Skinfit works closely with top athletes but also value the opinions and input of amateur athletes who use their gear. Battisti says, “We don't change our collection every season, but continue to offer proven products, improve others and develop new ones. Endurance sports are our passion, and we put this passion into our products.”
EuroCycler ride leaders, coaches and guests have tested Skinfit gear for several years. Recently, retailer Cadence Performance Cycling Centre in Philadelphia featured a test selection of Skinfit cycling gear in its store and was overwhelmed by the positive and enthusiastic response of its clients. CPCC will soon be offering Skinfit’s triathlon line to its clients. Based on the early success of Skinfit’s debut in the US, EuroCycler is now introducing a comprehensive Skinfit products line for Triathletes and Cyclists via the internet at www.skinfitusa.com.
EuroCycler will present Skinfit on June 12 at the Half-Ironman in Delware, Eagleman, at the race expo with a selection of summer products.
16 February 2005 - 20:05
Lance Armstrong at the Tour in 2005 !!
This story is from ESPN.com's automated news wire.
PARIS -- Still hungry to race but wary he is not in the best shape, Lance Armstrong wants to take his Tour de France record to even mightier heights: He will try for a seventh straight title this summer.
Armstrong had left open the possibility he wouldn't compete this year in cycling's showcase event to pursue other races. But in an announcement Wednesday on the Web site of his Discovery Channel team the Tour's only six-time winner said he will again commit himself to the race to which he's dedicated his cycling life.
"I am grateful for the opportunity that Discovery Communications has given the team and look forward to achieving my goal of a seventh Tour de France," Armstrong said.
Armstrong has overcome testicular cancer to become one of the most inspirational stories in all sports, and his sixth Tour crown last year sent him past four five-time champions: Jacques Anquetil, Eddy Merckx, Bernard Hinault and Miguel Indurain.
Armstrong will start his 2005 season with the Paris-Nice stage race in March, according to the team Web site. He will then compete in the Tour of Flanders on April 3 before returning to the United States to defend his title at the Tour de Georgia that month.
Armstrong said that he and Johan Bruyneel, his friend and team manager, "will evaluate my fitness later this spring and possibly add some races to the calendar."
"I am excited to get back on the bike and start racing," Armstrong said, "although my condition is far from perfect."
Other racers probably won't attach much importance to that last assessment, and British bookmaker William Hill immediately installed Armstrong the 4-7 favorite. Jan Ullrich, the 1997 Tour champion and five-time runner-up, was at 7-2.
"It's good that he is there," Ullrich said. "The best should be at the Tour."
Andreas Kloden, last year's runner-up, added: "I always said he would ride. I am glad he's there."
Armstrong will be nearly 34 when the Tour begins July 2 -- too old, some might think, to win the three-week cycling marathon yet again. There were plenty of doubters last year, too. Yet the Texan managed to defeat younger competitors with a dominant performance.
Armstrong showed last year that once he's on his bike he can shut out all manner of distractions -- from a court battle over a book that implied he used drugs to the attention focused on his girlfriend and singer, Sheryl Crow.
Armstrong has said he wants to win other big races, but the demands of the Tour have left little room for such Classic races as the Spanish Vuelta, the Paris-Roubaix or Fleche Wallone, which he won in 1996 shortly before being diagnosed with cancer.
This year's Tour de France route passes through Germany and features 21 stages over 2,222 miles from July 2-24. The mountaintop finishes are less intense and the time trials shorter this year. Both are disciplines where Armstrong excels, so the changes may mean he will have fewer opportunities to take huge chunks of time off his rivals.
But some initially thought the 2004 route also might trip up the champion. Instead, it proved just to his liking. Armstrong's winning margin over Kloden -- 6 minutes, 19 seconds -- was not his biggest. But his five solo stage wins and a team time trial victory made it perhaps Armstrong's best Tour.
This story is from ESPN.com's automated news wire.
28 October 2004 - 18:03
Tour de France 2005 Route Announcement
The two most prestigious records were broken during the 2004 Tour de France - Lance Armstrong's six GC wins and Richard Virenque's seven Best Climber awards.
Official details of the 2005 Tour de France route were announced today, October 28th. The Tour starts Saturday, July 2, 2005 and finishes in Paris on Sunday, July 24.
In an attempt to level the playing field, race organizers have redistributed the routes for the 2005 edition of the Tour which features only three mountain top finishes. The race sets off with nine flat stages in northern France, touching German soil once, followed by a rest day. On the heels of the long flats, the peloton will race three gruelling days in the Alps which are connected to the Pyrénées with only one flat stage.
No doubt the organizers believe that this unusual path for the 2005 Tour de France will give the advantage to Lance's rivals and expose an opportunity to dethrone the American. We believe that, once again, the TdF will be decided in the Pyrénées, this time over one of the many lesser known climbs. How about Stage 14's Port de Pailhéres with an 8 percent grade for 25 km - maybe you remember it from the 2003 Tour? Or perhaps it will be Stage 15 with over 205 km and 6 brutal climbs. With no rest day between the Alps and the Pyrénées, Stage 15 should prove to be the pivotal stage of the 2005 TdF.
Below is the Tour de France route for 2005. In about two weeks' time EuroCycler will have completed our program details for the portions covering the Alps and the Pyrénées with the finish in Paris. If you would like to join us in France in 2005, we strongly recommend you secure a reservation with us at www.eurocycler.com. If you have any questions about the trips, please contact us at info@eurocycler.com or call us at 1-866-789-3876, from outside US you can call +1-215-681-0101.
Stage | Day | Date | km | miles | | Start and Finish | Comment | 1 | Saturday | 2-Jul | 19 | 12 | | Fromentine - Île de Noirmoutier | Time Trial | 2 | Sunday | 3-Jul | 182 | 113 | | Challans - Les Essarts | | 3 | Monday | 4-Jul | 195 | 129 | | La Châtaigneraie - Tours | | 4 | Tuesday | 5-Jul | 66 | 41 | | Tours - Blois | Team Time Trial | 5 | Wednesday | 6-Jul | 179 | 111 | | Chambord - Montargis | | 6 | Thursday | 7-Jul | 187 | 116 | | Troyes - Nancy | | 7 | Friday | 8-Jul | 225 | 139 | | Luneville - Karlsruhe | stage arrival in Germany | 8 | Saturday | 9-Jul | 235 | 146 | | Pforzheim - Gerardmer | stage start in Germany | 9 | Sunday | 10-Jul | 170 | 105 | | Gerardmer - Mulhouse | | | Monday | 11-Jul | | | | Grenoble | Rest day | 10 | Tuesday | 12-Jul | 192 | 119 | | Grenoble - Courchevel | Alps | 11 | Wednesday | 13-Jul | 173 | 107 | | Courchevel - Briancon | Alps | 12 | Thursday | 14-Jul | 187 | 116 | | Briancon - Dignes | Alps | 13 | Friday | 15-Jul | 162 | 100 | | Miramas - Montpellier | | 14 | Saturday | 16-Jul | 220 | 136 | | Agde - Ax-3-Domaines | Pyrenees | 15 | Sunday | 17-Jul | 205 | 127 | | Lezat - Saint-Lary Soulan | Pyrenees | | Monday | 18-Jul | | | | Pau | Rest day | 16 | Tuesday | 19-Jul | 177 | 109 | | Mourenx - Pau | Pyrenees | 17 | Wednesday | 20-Jul | 239 | 148 | | Pau - Revel | | 18 | Thursday | 21-Jul | 189 | 117 | | Albi - Mende | | 19 | Friday | 22-Jul | 154 | 95 | | Issoire - Le Puy-en-Velay | | 20 | Saturday | 23-Jul | 55 | 34 | | Saint-Etienne | Time Trial | 21 | Sunday | 24-Jul | 160 | 99 | | Corbeil - Paris | Champs Elysees | | | TOTAL | 3,584 | 2,227 | | | |
26 October 2004 - 20:00
Tour de France 2005 will be unveiled on Thursday October 28
The 2005 Tour de France route will be unveiled on Thursday October 28 at 11:00 AM in Paris, with organizers expected to limit the number of time trials and mountain finishes - stages dominated by Lance Armstrong on his way to six consecutive Tour triumphs.
Sources close to the organizers said next year's race would feature only one individual time trial and three mountain finishes. The event normally includes two time trials and between four and six high-altitude finishes.
The only time trial, other than a longer-than-usual prologue on July 2, will take place in St. Etienne on the penultimate day. The Tour will start from the island of Noirmoutier just south of Brittany and end on July 24 in Paris. Competitors will ride clockwise around France and climb the Alps before the Pyrénées.
Another mountain stage in the Vosges mountains is also expected shortly after the Tour makes a short incursion into Germany.
Reuters
15 August 2004 - 22:02
Tour de France 2004 - Guest Peter Marshall reports
TOUR DE FRANCE 2004
by Peter Marshall, New Zealand
The Planning
The planning for a trip to follow the 2004 TdF started in August 2003 with the possibility of combining it with a holiday to the USA and UK scheduled for mid 2004.
I was aware of organised tours and that other members of the Wellington Vets had planned to follow the 2004 event. My preference was to do some riding while in France but was not happy about dragging my bike around the world for a month just to do a couple of hundred kms riding.
A search of the Internet led me to Euro Cycler a tour group being run out of the USA, with the motto “Serious Cycling – Serious Fun” that supplied bikes. There were 2 tours to choose from, one the mountains and Pyrenees and the second the Alps with the finish in Paris and although the price was at the top end of the scale there were many inclusions and appeared to be good value for the $.
Timing meant that the first tour would best suit and the daunting riding program was only tempered by the fact they would split riders into 3 levels of strength and ability – I hoped I would qualify in the 3rd group.
In the program was mention of a ride called L’Etape Du Tour which I had not really heard of but on investigation found it to be a ride organised for the public, by the TdF organisers every year, over one stage of the actual tour. The 2004 L’Etape was planned for Stage 10, the first of the mountain stages and the longest stage at 237kms.
The decision was made to book the trip with the possibility of entering the L’Etape.
The Training
Entries for the L’Etape did not open until Feb 2004, were restricted to the first 8500 riders and had to be on hard copy by mail or courier (no faxes or e-mail) accompanied by a medical certificate. With entry confirmation not expected before April the commitment to a training program was made without certainty of acceptance although the work would not be wasted given that the ride program totalled between 600 and 800kms dependant on the group you rode with.
I started a 20-week training program, put together by Peter Ulmer, of Smartsport, specifically targeting the L’Etape. The program involved 12 weeks in the gym, 11 weeks spinning with Tina Wilks and the rest of the vets that were going to France plus many hours of lonely rides.
The L’Etape was being held on Sunday 11 July and with a departure date of 1 July my last ride on the bike was Tuesday 29th June.
France and the Tour
We arrived in Toulouse (minus a suitcase – recovered 3 days later) in the South of France late afternoon of Thursday July 8th.
We were met at the airport by our tour group manager and transferred to our hotel in Sarlat, 100kms from Toulouse. The evening was spent at a group dinner meeting fellow guests and tour group staff. There was only 14 guests on our tour (the later tour ending in Paris had 38 guests), with 2 only booked for 4 days and all were Americans except for Christine and I.
The tour staff totalled ten of which 5 were current or recently retired professional cyclists employed as dedicated ride leaders/coaches. The Head Coach was Giana Roberge a coach, manager and member of the USA Saturn Cycling Team, which finished worlds No 1 women’s, team 3 out of 4 years. She is the current US National Masters Time Trial Champion and only missed the US Athens Olympic team through injury.
Friday July 9th was bike set up and first ride day and I was fitted up with a full frame Schwinn bike with Ultegra (triple ring) componentry. The changes from my own lighter compact frame bike felt significant especially given that I had not been on a bike for 12 days but the tour leaders were very reassuring and supportive and not long into the first ride I was feeling very comfortable. The first days ride was 88kms of reasonably flat terrain with lunch in the medieval village of Le Bugue before riding alongside the scenic Vezere and Dordogne rivers past the Les Milandes, de Marqueyssac and de Castelnaud Chateau’s and returning to our hotel.
Saturday the 10th July was the day before the L’Etape du Tour so after a 45-minute easy ride I joined the tour groups non-rider tourist program.
L’Etape du Tour – Sunday 11th July
This was Stage 10 of the actual Tour de France to be ridden by Lance and friends 3 days later on the 14th.
The longest stage of 237 kms and the first of the mountain stages with 9 difficult climbs (their words) with an estimated 4000 vertical metres of climbing and described by the organisers as “extremely challenging”. The major climbs were:
- Col de Lestards 856 M, 7km at 4.7%
- Col de Noronne 1442 M, 8.3km at 3.5%
- Puy Mary 1589 M, 5.5km of 8% after 180kms
- Plomb de Cantal 1392 M, 8.2km of 6% after 205kms
The % figures are averages and to give a comparison the Hatape Hill on the Round Taupo ride is 2km long averaging 6% with a maximum gradient of 8 %. The hardest climb in the L’Etape was Puy Mary, 5.5km at 8 % but the first half averaged only 4 % at best with the second half averaging 12 % maxing out at 22 %. The last 1.5 kms of this climb was the steepest section of climb of the whole TdF ! And that is after 180kms of riding with 60kms to go and more climbs including 8.2km at 6 % (that’s Hatape x 4) plus a nice little 2 km climb to the finish in St Flour.
With a 2.5 hour drive from our hotel to the 6:30 pm start in Limoges, the alarm went off at 2:45am for a 3:15am departure with 5 other tour group members who were also attempting the challenge.
Entries were restricted to 8500 and according to the website 7842 started. My entry number was 8379 so with my fellow tour group riders we were right at the back of the field and it took 19 minutes to cross the electronic transponder start line. In addition to the start and finish the organisers set up 2 additional timing points on the course to catch cheats plus eliminate riders not achieving 30kms per hour for the first 30kms and 19kms per hour overall after that.
The organisation and crowd support was equal to that for the TdF with all roads closed and parties in every town, at the top of the climbs and where ever more than 3 vehicles (usually motor-homes could park).
Starting at the rear had the advantage of keeping out of the accidents but I was soon into big bunches of riders and passing many who were obviously not going to make the grade. An interesting game was to pass as many riders with an entry number lower than mine and it was not long before I was into the 7 and 6000’s. The lowest number I saw was 042 but he passed me so he must have had a mechanical but I did pass entry number 148 which provided a boost.
The early part of the ride was undulating and I took advantage of the road blockage at the first feed station to take a pee stop and then took a 3 minute break at 150kms for the same reason plus to stretch the legs and reorganise my food. I was always aware during the ride of the number of riders and bunches but it was not until this stop that I got an appreciation of the shear volume of riders passing – it was continuous.
For reasons I cannot recall I was always concerned about the 8.2km climb of 8% after 205kms and had targeted finishing my training rides with a big hill as practice. This meant that the Category 1 Puy Mary did not figure until half way up when I realised I had been riding only about a 4% gradient and was confirmed by the km sign that told me I that the next km was 12%. Looking up I could see 3 different lines of riders crawling up what looked very steep climbs and then around the next corner it hit. There were riders getting off their bikes walking in cleats and socks and all over the road – it is no exaggeration to say that I road past hundreds of riders, over the next 2.5kms, who were walking. I did not have the energy to look at my Heart Rate Monitor with my total concentration being on keeping the pedals turning and fighting the demon in my head telling me to stop and walk – and I made it to recover in a magic decent. After that climb I was always going to finish the ride (barring a mechanical) but it must have destroyed the strength and will of many others. I burned an estimated 8000 calories during the total ride and many would have been on that climb.
The rest of the ride was made up of more climbs with some neat descents and the closer I got to the finish the better I felt helped on by the support from the spectators on the side of the road. The finish in St Flour was hectic and I along with all finishers was presented with a medal.
The numbers:
- 8500 entries
- 7842 starters
- 6512 finishers
My time 10 hrs 19 mins, overall place 4109, place in category 1035 out of 1760 finishers.
The fastest TdF rider (Richard Virenque) completed the same ride in 6 hours but remember this was Stage 10.
Four of my tour group finished the ride with our leader Giana Roberge being the 1st women home and receiving a TdF Lion, yellow jersey, watch, flowers and trophy and she has entry No 002 for 2005. Giana started at the rear of the field with me, took 1.5 hours to get into the bunch she needed to get a fast time and was exceeding 100kms per hour to catch them (all males) after they dropped her on the hills. She admitted that she was looking for a 3rd chain ring on the climbs !!
After the finish we had to wait around until 7:30pm for the return of one tour group member who was eliminated from the ride by the officials. Eliminated riders had either been overtaken by the “end of Race” vehicle or reached the elimination zone at 202kms after the maximum time limit calculated at 19kms per hour. Transponders were collected, bikes loaded in trucks and riders transported to the finish.
We had a 4-hour drive back to our hotel and after stopping for a meal arrived at 1am the next morning. By the time I had a shower and finished telling Christine of the days experience I hit the bed at around 2am – nearly 24 hours after starting out and with no sleep.
More Riding
Monday 12th July I played at being a tourist on Monday 12th July and spent a fair amount of time eating.
Tuesday 13th July – Our first close-up look at the TdF Peloton. Our luxury bus “Car Rouge’ dropped us off next to the road, closed for Stage 9, at Lac de Vassiviere and we road for 2 hours on the actual stage course before meeting up with the tour group vans and motor home set up on the side of the road with shelter and lunch. Waiting for the peloton is an experience in itself with the commercial caravan (a moving party) in which TdF sponsors pass on floats throwing out thousands of goodies to the cheering spectators. Then the official vehicles pass, and then the helicopters precede the riders followed by the team support cars and buses etc. After the show passed we road further on the stage course to meet “Car Rouge”.
90kms of riding.
Wednesday 14th July We travelled to Limoges by “Car Rouge” to witness the start of Stage 10, the same stage I had ridden in the Tour du L’Etape. We had heaps of time to soak up the atmosphere at the start with many thousands of other spectators lining the road up to 10 deep close to the start line. We saw the riders introduced on the stage, warming up and coming out of their team buses. After the stage had started we were on the way to our next base in Pau at the foot of the Pyrenes.
Thursday 15th July The first 25kms of riding from the hotel was a relatively flat cruise along the Ouzon River and through the narrow gorges of Val d’Azun (fabulous riding). Then we hit the Col du Soular a quad testing 1300 vertical metre climb where our tour group had lunch set up for us on the summit. The descent was amazing and it just kept on going and we finished the day riding back to the hotel with a total ride of 116kms.
Friday 16th July A big day in store riding the famous Col du Tourmalet/La Mongie the same day as Stage 12 of the TdF. With an estimated half a million fans on the mountain the road is closed to vehicles 24 hours before the race. Our tour group sent the motor home up the mountain before the road was closed to secure a good viewing spot for us the see the TdF riders after we had ridden up 1700 vertical metre climb. Christine went up in this vehicle and spent the night at the party on the mountain !!. We started out from Bagneres de Bigorre and through St. Marie de Campan at the foot of Tourmalet. The ride up the mountain was 17.6km grind but a true experience as the crowd converged on the road offering support (and a push if they felt you looked tired) – there was some real fanatics among them. Our tour group had set up approx 2 km from the summit in La Mongie but we road on to the stages “King of the Mountain” finish just for the record. Many of the fans were painting their favourite riders names on the road and the wet paint caused traction problems if you road out of the saddle. The weather during our ride, up the mountain, was fine and warm but soon after we reached the shelter, set up by our tour group, we had one mother of an electrical storm – lightening, thunder and heavy rain. The weather cleared by the time the floats came through and it was time to scramble for the goodies being thrown to the crowds.
For a little old kiwi not used to big crowds the spectacle of so many people, converging on the riders was as close as I want to get to fanatical fans especially the Basks from Spain who had obviously been on the mountain in party mode for several days – it probably can be compared to the mountain at Bathhurst amongst the Ford and Holden fans. A great experience.
After Lance and the rest of the TdF riders had passed we waited for the road to clear a little before descending down to Bagneres de Bigorre to meet “Car Rouge” for transport to our hotel.
Total ride 80kms
Saturday 17th July An early start saw us in the bus to St Girons before getting on the bikes and heading toward Audressin where we joined the tour route for that days stage (Stage 13). We road up Col de La Cors (the first of the King of the Mountain stages for the day) and met our tour group for lunch at the summit while waiting for the TdF to pass (more goodies). We had an ideal vantagepoint to view the tour riders snaking their way to the top including an interesting sight looking down on the support helicopters. After the riders had passed we followed them up the Col de Latrape and then enjoyed an exciting ride between deep gorges of stunning rock formations, cruising along rolling rivers with stunning views of the Pyrenees Mountains. We regrouped at a local restaurant to await the arrival of the TdF riders at Plateau de Beille. We met up with the tour group that included the Wgtn Vets at the hotel in Toulouse that night.
Total ride 100kms
Sunday 18th July The last full day of our tour started in Carcassonne soaking up the atmosphere at the start of Stage 14. Giana, our ride leader had secured 2 passes to the Village Depart which is the equivalent of getting a pit pass to a F1 Grand Prix. Christine I borrowed the passes for a 15 minute visit to the village which was a unique experience enabling us to get close to the riders, team facilities and buses etc. After watching the Stage start we spent the rest of the day being tourists before enjoying the last group dinner in a Chateau Restaurant.
Monday 19th July It was off to the airport to continue our trip with a week in the UK, 4 days in Rome and 2 in Hong Kong before arriving home on Monday 2nd August.
“Car Rouge” This was the name of our luxury bus transport during our time with the tour group in France. Described as equal parts limousine, restaurant, bike garage and motorcoach. The first level offered a kitchenette with refrigerator and snack bar + dining tables with booth seating to enjoy meals en route. Upstairs was luxury recliner seating with on board TV and audio. Towed behind was a custom built, fully enclosed bicycle trailer that allowed bikes to be loaded fully assembled.
An experience of a lifetime with nearly 700kms of riding in 7 days with the hi-lite being completing the 237km Tour du L’Etape – expensive, yes but worth every $ to travel with a top of the line tour organisation.
Peter Marshall, New Zealand
22 April 2004 - 17:50
Travails From Spain (2) - by Giana Roberge
The wayfarer is welcomed home, April 22, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Yesterday I arrived back in Tossa de Mar to the Giverola resort for my second bout of training camps with EuroCycler. I was so excited to return to the beauty of Spain, and to what I was hoping would be sunny, warm weather.
Traveling with me was Glenn Turner, as Richard Debrot, EuroCycler’s owner, was out of commission with a broken arm which he sustained in a race on Saturday in Philadelphia. I felt a little like a daughter being sent off to school for the first time as Richard and I parted at the airport. After an hour of many tips, hints, lessons, and instructions, I finally gave Richard a reassuring hug and told him I would be fine. After six years of setting up professional cycling camps for the Timex and then the Saturn Team, I figure I will run this camp with the same approach – professional organization with training and enjoyment first and foremost.
Glenn and I had a safe and relaxing trip with our entire luggage arriving with us. We arrived in time for a quick nap and a delicious dinner. For me, it was like Homer returning. I was greeted by the hotel staff as if I was their best friend, returning with stories of my conquests back in the US. I almost felt like Giverola was my home and I had only traveled back to the US to visit.
After a lovely night’s sleep, I woke up and ran what could have been a top time in the recent Boston Marathon on my way to breakfast. I was so excited to dig into the muesli and fresh bread. Breakfast was exactly as I had fantasized about it these past two weeks: the multi grain bread still warm from the oven and the muesli so fresh you cannot get enough of it.
A quick change and we were off on the Romanya loop. Only 50 miles, it was the perfect start for Glenn and me to get our legs underneath us. We had a small group because there were no guests joining us. The current guests at Giverola are mostly families, with a lot of children. The lower ride groups are full, but the faster speed groups have been empty most of the week. So, it was only ride leaders including Michael (who we knew from our previous trip here), Thomas (knew and from Zurich) and one of the mountain bike leaders.
I believe Michael must have told them a little bit about me before we left. From the onset of the ride, no one would pull, and I was happy enough to start the ride in the front. Glenn told me later that Thomas and the mountain biker were both pointing at me and gabbing in German. I have been learning German but not enough yet to know when someone is talking about me. Now, if they talk about numbers, days of the week, food, or household items, I am fine.
But I digress: On the descents, they all let me go down first, and no one even tried to stay with me. Can I just insert here how very amazing the Independent Fabrication’s Crown Jewell is on the descents? After riding it now for about two weeks, I had been so eager to get it over to Spain where I knew the bike would sing with the happiness of being allowed to do what it is clearly built to do. And it was perfect. I went even faster than I had previously, with the bike just floating underneath me, carving out the turns, and accelerating out of every corner. I felt like I was in a dream and was climbing faster to get to the descents quicker because I was having so much fun.
Anyway, back to the ride. So after 45 minutes, I finally pulled off because I knew we were coming into the 10 k climb and I wanted a little respite. My legs were heavy with fluid and jetlag and my mind was still a little flat. They all looked at me and Michael just grinned and shook his head. Even Glenn would not pull through. It is a good thing they did not know what was going through my head that time. It had something to do with being a man and having a woman do all the work… So, I continued on at the front for a bit, but then at the base of the climb, before it kicks up, I simply pulled all the way left and slowed down until no one wanted to be behind me anymore. Then I finally got my much needed break.
On the climb, Michael set the pace, and soon it was only Glenn and I with him. He was in his big ring which was surprising as I was in my 39x23. As the road began to increase in grade, Michael dropped off the pace and it was Glenn and I. Glenn was strong, pedaling well and content to set the pace (now). All I could do was think about how little O2 was getting to my legs and how I felt like I had just begun riding a bike yesterday. Finally though we crested the first peak, and at that point, the little mountain bike rider caught us and then picked up the pace steadily.
Looking down, both my heart rate and wattage were way higher than I had wanted them to be, so I eased off a bit, and instantly the gap opened. I saw the mountain biker trying to put the hurt on Glenn, but Glenn knew the climb and rode smart, gutting it out until the top.
On the descent I just let the If open up and I was reminded of the same feeling as when I used to exercise race horses at the Saratoga race track. It is a feeling of controlled speed, but just on the edge of uncontrollable power.
On the way home, we came up San Grau, which I had not had the pleasure of riding on my previous rides in the area. What a gorgeous climb. On the top the view is spectacular, with cliffs cascading down to the pounding surf. As we descended, it was clear that the weather has been severe since I was last here. The roads were strewn with rocks, dirt, branches, and the pavement was even missing in some places.
As we hit the 1 kilometer to go marker, the skies opened up, leaving us wet enough to appreciate our hot showers and warm apartments. On the slate for tomorrow is a 115 miles up to Torro De L’Hommo. I am hoping for good weather because the 40 kilometer climb offers outstanding views, and I need a little sunshine – my tan from California is beginning to fade!
Until tomorrow – thank you for reading.
28 March 2004 - 21:23
Cadence Performance Cycling Centers Team with Carmichael Training Systems to Open First World-Class Retail & Training Facility in Manayunk
Sports Editors/Business Editors
PHILADELPHIA--(BUSINESS WIRE)--March 23, 2004
Cadence Performance Cycling Centers, the Philadelphia area's first and most complete world-class retail bicycle facility and home to the nation's first expansion of the renowned Carmichael Training Systems (CTS), will open its first Center in April at 4323 Main St. in Manayunk, not far from cycle racing's legendary Manayunk Wall.
The specially designed bi-level interior, created by architect Cam Lacey of Wayne, PA, will for the first time in the Philadelphia area provide avid cyclists with exclusive brands of many of the world's finest cycles and cycle components. Prices will range from $1,400 to $2,000 for pre-built bikes and $1,800 to $15,000 for custom-built bicycles.
Cadence owners and partners Jay Snider, Matt Heitmann and Brian Walton have entered into an exclusive partnership with CTS to operate the nation's first bicycle-specific CTS Performance Center. Founded by Lance Armstrong's personal coach, Chris Carmichael, CTS is the world's leading provider of endurance athlete training and coaching programs. Walton, a three-time Olympian and one of the most successful cyclists in North American bike racing, will oversee the operations of the CTS facility.
Other interesting aspects of the Cadence complex on Main St. will be a section devoted to the latest in international cycling apparel for men and women; mechanical and bike fitting services by trained and certified specialists; and a travel center operated by EuroCycler and DuVine Adventures.
As avid cyclists, founding partners Jay Snider, Founder and Managing Partner of Snider Capital in Ardmore, PA, Chairman and CEO of Venue 1 in Wayne, PA, and former President of the Philadelphia Flyers, and Matt Heitmann, former academic, local businessman and a cycle road racing participant, undertook the Cadence concept to satisfy the needs of prominent cycling communities.
"We wanted to create a distinctive concept - performance cycling centers - that unconditionally cater to cyclists' every need. From the rarest cycle component to travel packages, we will deliver 100 percent. We'll ensure that each customer is treated like a pampered professional. Professional products, professional training and professional service, all in one place. That's our concept," Heitmann explained.
For additional information on all aspects of Cadence Performance Cycling Centers, visit the company's web site at www.cadencecycling.com.
27 March 2004 - 16:22
Travails From Spain (1) - by Giana Roberge
Former professional cyclist and director of the Saturn Women's Professional Cycling team, Giana Roberge certainly knows what it takes to make it in the demanding world of competitive cycling. Giana has trained and worked with some of the top athletes in the sport and is now running her own women's oriented website teamspeadqueen.com. At teamspeadqueen.com women can browse articles on all aspects of the sport related to women and recieve personal coaching. Giana is currently conducting a training camp in Spain for men and women cyclists who are serious about competing at a high level. The following are Giana's journal entries which will give you good insight into what it's like to train and live a cycling lifestyle in Europe.
The white flag waves, rally cars Costa Bravo, Levi wins a big one, March 26, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Today's ride was 106 windy and very hilly miles. I had a large group of 16 riders to look after today, and managed to get through the final ride without any big dramas save for a flat. No wrong turns, and the Swiss leaders will be happy as I kept the average between 17-18 mph, no easy feat given the wind and 25 mile climb.
The group was well behave and strong. Today I was pretty flat, I think between being sick and the amount of miles in the past 17 days, things have caught up to me. I finally succumbed on the final climb, waved the white flag and said good-bye to the boys as they attacked one another up the final climb. My legs were kaput.
The good news is that I have been invited back to lead more clinics and coaching the last two weeks of April. I have asked to give my decision upon my return back to the US and after my much needed long nap that I plan to take when I finally touch down in Santa Rosa.
In other news today, there was a wicked cool rally car gathering my Mom happened to catch in Lloret de Mar today. Rally is really popular here (and no wonder) the roads and terrain is perfect for it. And in perhaps the biggest news of all, Levi Leipheimer, local hero in Santa Rosa, and certainly a much loved cyclist in this area where his second home is, won the fourth and toughest stage of the Tour of Catalonia today. This was really cool and the Americans were super excited to have an American win while they were here. The stage Levi won today had a very difficult climb which they did twice, and from what I hear, he rode a tactically brilliant race, catching Heras in the last hundred meters. I would say this bodes well for the Tour. Funny how everyone is talking like Levi is their best friend; everyone loves when an American wins!
I have now finished packing my bike and bags. We have a deathly early departure tomorrow morning, which may feel much worse than it is if I go out with everybody to the disco tonight. Although I would like to celebrate the finish of the trip, I am also a bit concerned about the length and intensity of the ride today combined with the travel tomorrow. I will see how I feel after dinner.
I will miss this area, the people I have met and the atmosphere of this wonderful resort. If you are ever looking for a cycling training vacation this is certainly worth considering. Thanks for reading!
Bicycling 101, March 25, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Bright sunshine greeted me this morning as I made my way to breakfast. First I had to stop by the bike garage to replace one of my Michelin Carbon tires. The tire has about 3000 miles and I guess it has about run its course as I have had four flats in two days. I put another one on and headed up to a very packed breakfast room. I am always surprised at how many miles I get out of the tire.
In the breakfast room, people were bustling around. Yesterday was a day off for most people and the excitement in the room for today’s ride was nearly palpable. I had to wait in line for the muesli, as it seemed to be a favorite dish for everyone. I tried my best to chat with the Swiss gentleman next to me, but it was mostly, smiling, nodding and gesturing.
Today was a women’s on the bike clinic. I split the ten women up into two groups with both groups covering the same skills but at a different pace. Laury Saligman took one group and I took the other. Interestingly, so many of the men were clamoring for a similar coaching experience that Richard and I set it up that I would lead the day, talking the groups together and then ride back and forth coaching. Anyone who knows me knows I can talk forever about riding your bike, training and racing. I began with a quick chat in the classroom about pace-line dos and don’ts, echelon instruction and climbing tips. From there we headed out the road to practice on the roads.
This worked really well until we got separated in one of the towns. Fortunately, the two women’s groups went the correct way but Richard’s men’s group headed off in a different direction. When we got to the top of the climb, I waited with the two groups for a bit but we never did see Richard. It was getting cold and weather was moving in so I had the two groups get going.
I was so happy with how much the groups improved. Early in the day, a smooth pace-line seemed impossible, but after four hours of coaching and me nagging them to ride closer, steadier, straighter, in a more protected spot, and closer still, it all came together. What a beautiful thing a really good pace-line is. By the end, the group I was working with had down an echelon, and was easily doing 23 mph on the flats. This was a big improvement for them, and they were amazed at the difference learning how to ride in the wind could make.
We worked on climbing and descending skills as well, and I was really happy to see one woman who could not manage to hang on the group on the descent in the morning, stay up with that same group in the afternoon. Amidst all the coaching (I can barely speak now my throat is so sore from yelling directions over the wind), Francois, the Bicycling Magazine photographer, was zooming around capturing lots of this for the article coming up in a few months.
When we got back to the resort, the group was high-fiving each other, really proud of what they had learned and executed today. It was really neat to see a group of women, leery of each other on Monday, teammates on Thursday. I think the entire group (men and women) are excited to head back home and use what they have learned this week. For me, it is satisfying to know that there are more people out there who will know about pace-line riding, echelon, descending, climbing and who will enjoy riding more efficiently and comfortably.
Tomorrow will be my final ride here in Spain before flying to the US this weekend. I am hoping that the clients from the previous two weeks will spread the word about the great training and coaching opportunities here and I will be able to return for additional weeks next year. I have also been talking to Richard about working the EuroCycler trips for the Tour de France (see www.eurocycler.com) as a head coach and actually treating the trip as a coaching opportunity for clients who want to ride the courses of the Tour while receiving coaching. This would mean a lot of time in France for July, and a lot of contact with over 100 people already signed up for the trips. I think this would be a very exciting year to be at the Tour, so I am considering this opportunity very seriously.
Time in the wind, and as luck would have it, March 23, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Today was a 95 mile ride that some guy with way, way too much time on his hands created to challenge the riders here. Let me just say that the course today was tougher than anything I had seen yet. Not only was the climbing steep and I mean over 20% steep, but as ride leader I had to stay in the front and try to keep the average at 17-19 mph. I say try because with 30 mph head and cross winds combined with four major climbs the best I could do was 16 mph. Hard to be sitting groveling into a head wind and hear people complaining behind you about the speed. Finally, a little fed up, I had the others pull, and that shut them up real fast.
The ride today was as beautiful as it was difficult. We rode along the coast, into a crazy headwind, with the cliffs falling away from us, down to the crashing waves. After a pasta lunch we climbed back up into the back country and then over to the two remaining cols for the day.
In the town right before the longest climb of the day, we were stopped by the police. I tried to explain where we were going but he would have none of it. Looking up the street, I thought, that looks like the trappings of a bike race. Duh I guess I was not thinking clearly, having lost some of my quick thinking in the wind along came a Shimano neutral car, three motorcycles, media cars, and a team car. One lone rider in the Castalana race was off the front. We rolled up to the very narrow corner, and here came the pro peloton. Levi, Ulrich, Zabel, Dekker I saw all of them as they snaked their way through the narrow roads and out into the country. They had just descended down the climb we were headed to. Wow. What a sight and what timing!
By the time we hit the climb, the excitement of the race had worn off and everyone had slowed the world championship pace. People were beginning to fade a bit and everyone had to dig pretty deep to get up the 10 kilometer col. Over the top and down the other side, brought us about 30 k from home thank goodness.
Arriving back at the ranch, I had enough time to grab a very hot shower, say hi to my Mom and now I am off to dinner. Thank goodness I am starving! Tonight we have part two of our classroom womens clinics, which have been a great success thus far.
The big boys rip it up, March 22, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Today we awoke to pouring down rain, coincidentally coinciding with my poor state of mind and energy level. Due to the weather, the regularly scheduled rides were canceled but everyone still was up to riding to Llorret De Mar to see the start of the Tour.
How cool to be riding down the same roads the pro men would be racing up in just a few hours. Once we got into town, we quickly found the start area and were hanging out chatting when one after another famous rider rolled past. Every major team was there from T-Mobile, to Rabobank, to Kelme, to Fasso Bartolo, to Euskatil. We did not see USPS, but it seems like everyone else who matters is here.
I got to say hi to Jan Ulrich as he and Eric Zabel rode looking a bit miserable in the rain. We had our picture taken with Roberto Heras and then with Errik Dekkar. We got to see Salvidori and Levi Leipheimer. I was feeling a bit start struck. I am sure I looked plenty goofy standing there with a huge smile on my face saying hello to all these guys and then whispering That was Zabel! Plus I really enjoyed being back at a race again, and no matter that it was a pro stage race, the caravan cars were the same. Shimano was neutral support, the police were lined up in formation, the riders had to sign in, the soigneurs were leaving to get to the feedzones, it felt really good to be back again and also cool to be able to tell the group of 20 or so people about all the preparation that was going on, how the caravan cars were set up, what the directors and soigneurs were doing, and what the riders were possibly feeling. All and all it was very satisfying.
From there I rode back to the resort, picked up my Mom and we walked up to the ridge to see the race go up to the climb before the big climb. After the pre-race caravan came by, one of Heras' teammates came blasting through with a good 3:30 on the peloton. Kelme was at the front riding tempo, and looking unperturbed by how the race was unfolding. There were guys getting feeds, directors talking on the radio, and racers chatting in the back. There was the lovely sound of 190 chains whirring on their now filthy cassettes. I noticed a few mechanics asleep in the back of their team cars and made a mental note to thank all the guys who have sat in that place in my caravan car and kept me entertained for days at a time. Ian Sherburne, Toby Webster, Ken Whelpdale, Mike Giraud, and Dave Arnauckas were never allowed to sleep while I was driving.
I was even lucky enough to catch a bottle being thrown to the side by a rider, a keepsake of a really exciting day. In my childish delight I was reminded that this is what the dream for every bike racer is about the passion of racing begins early in the season, here on the mountain slopes of Spain, sometimes in the rain, winding its way through the spring and early summer arriving finally to the countryside and mountain tops of France.
The boys from America get the job done, March 21, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
The day dawned bright and sunny and I was up early to the sound of the ocean crashing on the shore. Weather must be moving in, and the Mediterranean was shifting her energy to match the dark storm cloud lurking over the ridge. Tomorrows forecast is for rain.
Breakfast was a bit of a crazy affair with the new riders nervous about the first day of group rides. People were only snacking on their breakfast, and I laughed to myself, knowing that by the end of the 450 mile week they would be inhaling everything in sight. After a brief meeting in the square, everyone broke into groups. The womens group was clearly defined and evenly matched. Laury Saligman led them out for the 110 kilometer ride and I would meet up with them on the climb. Everyone was to ride the same route, and the group I was needed for was the second fastest group. We had eight Americans in the group, all very strong, eager to get the ride underway. My co-leader, Michael, is one of my favorite leaders. He is very steady and is really good with the group.
We headed out in the sun with delighted comments on the views, the roads and the terrain. Everyone in our group was so relieved to be out of the cold East coast to have the sun on their legs, clad only in jersey and shorts. On the first col, the Philly group hit the climb hard, eager to show their stuff. I hung back chatting with Michael and then slowly picked up the pace. My legs were flat and I was not too eager today to beat myself up. However, as I climbed, the group ahead shattered, and I began picking up stray riders. I passed some of the women who were making their way up the winding road at a steady pace, obviously riding within their limits. For the first day, 110 kilometers with three climbs certainly put things in perspective for many. On the descent all the collective groups came together, and it was quite a sight with 100 or so people snaking their way down the gorgeous descent. A quick pee break and sandwich and we were on our way again.
We hit the second climb after about 15 kilometers, and I was very familiar with this climb. By now my legs were loosening up and my mind felt a little more capable of suffering. (It always helps when you know where the top of the climb is). So when the young stud at the front began to pick up the pace, I stayed on his wheel. Soon he had ridden everyone but me and his teammate off his wheel. I maintained contact until we were about 500 meters from the top when I felt like going any harder and I would blow. Although the two in front of me were category 1 riders, I had seen them descend and I knew I could afford the gap that was quickly established. Sure enough within a minute I had caught them on the descent from there it was just fun, fun, fun all the way down to the ocean.
The way home on the coastal road we mixed it up a bit, having fun in the wind, windy roads and undulating terrain. The boys from Philly are all quite strong, and very ready to stretch their legs after a long winter of trainer riding or heavy clothes in freezing temperatures. I feel like a local here, knowing where the corners are and not quite familiar with how fast I can take them. Good thing my Mom was not in the group I think it is probably best a parent does not see their child take the kind of risks that are so addictive on a bike. As we pulled in to the parking lot at the hotel, four CSC guys went flying by to cheers, woops and whistles from all the riders at the resort. That was pretty cool. They looked so euro and so pro zooming by. I can just say I was relieved not to be the unlucky ones who they would motor by on the climb.
Tomorrow is the first stage of a Division one Mens Tour, the Tour of Catalonia. Richard will be taking a group down to Llorret de Mar to see the start, and then up to San Grau to see the attacks on one of the toughest climbs in the area. Bike racing is so neat because unlike Baseball, football or basketball, at the smaller tours the public has access to the riders. The womens schedule will include climbing and descending skills in an area where we can also catch up with the action.
Saying good-bye and hello, March 20, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
This being my second Saturday here at Giverola I was quite familiar with the procedure. Up and out the door at 6:30 am, meet the outgoing guests, get on the bus with them, drop them off at their terminal in Barcelona, hug good-bye, pick up the new guests at the airport, shake hands hello and then drive back to the resort.
As the guests from the Milwaukee portion of our camp left, I was given many hugs. People were almost tearful to say good-bye, like we had been friends for several years instead of several days, and I was struck today by how interesting it is that after a week of athletic struggle, people come to think of you as a very close friend. I think because I was the ride leader, the person for many that facilitated that success, a connection was made. I felt like a teacher watching her young ones graduate to the next class. Don't forget to take your Emergen-C, wash your hands and drink plenty of fluids on the way back, I reminded them as they made their way to the check-in counter.
As I sat and waited the arrival of the incoming guests, I realized that many of our Milwaukee group met personal goals this past week. They came with a challenge in their minds, and they met and surpassed that challenge. They did not think they could ride the mountains here and they did. 50 miles seemed impossible, but they road almost 150 the week they were here. Riding in a group was an unknown, and the last day they were riding a very organized pace-line.
Last night I was doubtful I had made an impact on any of these people. I know the scenery did, the exercise did, the experience of being in Europe did, but after this mornings round of hugs, I have to believe that when they look back at their EuroCycler trip to Spain, they will remember a blond haired woman named G something who told them how to ride in a pace-line, fix a flat, and descend down those long mountain passes.
Tonight we begin with a new group of 40 clients. It is a more competitive based group with a few teams joining us for training. Also, Bill Strickland from Bicycling Magazine it here what a great job perk for him. For me, I am going to steal some shuteye as I am having a bad health day today. Today is a day when even conversation feels like a huge burden so I am going to take the opportunity to curl up in the sun on the patio and take a bit of a nap.
The towering man sees all, March 19, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Todays ride was Torro de L'Homme (the towering man); a 40 kilometer climb that brought us up to the snow line. There were three options, the 110 miles, 76 miles and 35 miles. I was so hoping I would get to do the 110 miles, but as it turned out one of our customers (the only one) wanted to do the 76 mile ride so I was called upon to be a personal coach for the day.
As it turned out it was a fun day with a good chance for me to share a lot of what I know about training, climbing and descending. However, I did not begin the day as a coach. I was caught up in departure logistics this morning and got a late start to the bike area. This is not a good thing, because with so many bikes, there is a line to use the pump, lube and what have you. To make matters worse, I could not find the key to my lock so I had to cut my lock and only then did the key appear in my shoe! I felt quite foolish.
Anyway, I rushed up top only to wait another 30 minutes as we loaded bikes and got organized. The drop off point was about 3 kilometers from the base of the massive climb. I instructed Peter to take his time, and really pace himself. It was brutally windy and very cold, so to stay warm, I would climb for some k's and then head back down and climb with him. I climbed the climb almost twice.
This is a climb that goes on forever. As I made my way past the kilometer signs on the side of the road, I rode over history as on every steep pitch a famous riders name remained from tours years ago, etched in the pavement for everyone to catch a glimpse of the effort it must take to be racing up such a climb. You need every form of support and cheering that there is. Pantani, Indurain, Olano¦ all the great climbers were honored by their tifosi on the slopes of El Torro. Although I was hoping, no one had written my name on the climb. I could hear Phil Liggets voice in my head though, She is really suffering now. The legs have to be feeling the climb now. See how she struggles in the wind. This is a lonely place to be, fighting to stay in the front. Once the pain settled in, I had to focus on some other things besides the throbbing in my legs and lungs.
Winding up through the clouds, into the fog, past the tree line and up to the snow, I had plenty of time to be grateful for the amazing opportunity afforded to me. I am not normally an overly spiritual person, but today I said a prayer of thanks for the beauty that stretched before, above and below me. As the mountain ranges rose up around me, I truly felt inspired by the wildness of the wind, the startling realization of cold air and the mountain smell of pine and sage.
At the top we changed into some dry, warm clothes under the stern gaze of Torro. I felt as if the sheer rock face had been sitting in judgment for years as humans attempted to tame his rocky exterior, whether on foot, bike, horse or car. The 20 kilometer descent was what a bike rider dreams of. Smooth roads, no cars, a solid pitch, and big sweeping corners made for a fast and fun descent. From there we had a climb over the coastal range to the ocean and then two more climbs to the resort. Peter did a great job and was happy to have succeeded in what may be one of his biggest rides ever.
As I was climbing the final climb to the resort I heard, pick up the pace, kick ass, as a taxi flew by me. Lorri Lown, our first womens guest for next weeks womens clinic was coming in from the airport. It made me smile I have not been called by my nickname for some time, and it was a nice topping to the delicious day.
Tomorrow is two trips for me to the Barcelona airport. In the morning I meet Bicycling Magazines Bill Strickland, and in the evening my Mom. I am looking forward to seeing my Mom and sharing the excitement and beauty of Spain.
An invitation to dinner, March 18, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Today I was relieved to be leading a ride that I knew. I will tell you that the stress level for me leading these rides has been very high. I am pretty used to having to muddle my way through Europe with a bunch of people relying on me. I think all the women who were on the Saturn team would attest to the fact that I rarely got us lost, and would in fact drive to the start of the race prior to the race if I had any questions what so ever.
I have not had that luxury here and for some reason have been very stressed about not getting my groups lost. There is a lot to pay attention to, you need to keep the group organized and at an average speed. In the evenings you have to report your average speed and if you were under or over, you get reprimanded. This is not something I am used to and I really dislike being spoken to in German about something I really did not have control over. You can only go as fast as your slowest rider but the Swiss are more German than the Germans and expect, nay, demand, that things be done precisely.
You can't really stop to check directions, and because I don't know Spain that well, I am continually second guessing myself. All the while I am trying to find my way, I am also having conversations with guests and trying to keep everyone organized and having to pedal myself! I am sure next week I will be much more at ease with this. The ride leaders here are amazing. As I have mentioned, each group is divided into groups depending on the average speed. The ride leaders keep the speed so constant that they are a joy to ride behind. It is like having your own personal motorbike in front of you.
When I woke up this morning my head and legs were already in disagreement. My head knew it was time to get up and my legs were casting their vote for tucking back into bed for a while. Mornings like this and I am well aware that I am still not 100%. I had a slight sore throat, glands swollen and the idea of sleep was delicious. However, I knew there was a ride to lead so I dragged my sorry butt out of bed and had a really hot shower. This seems to help me get things going. Still, even as I pulled on my leg warmers, my legs were just begging me to be nice to them, another cup of coffee and the hot tub they hoped.
I had been hoping for another sunny day, but it was cloudy and cold when we headed out. As it turned out only a few people were up for a ride, the fatigue factor being very high. This left Richard and I free to ride with a faster group. We headed out with Robbie because I knew no matter how bad my legs felt, I would be looked after by Robbie. He keeps the pace so steady that I knew I could hide from the wind in the group. The wind was brutal and I tucked in on Robbies wheel having no interest what so ever of putting my nose in the wind. I was not amused by my change in attitude but I am always reminded how quickly any rider can go from being a rock star to just a stone on the side of the road.
We came to the first major col of the day and I made a dramatic rookie mistake. As we hit the base of the climb, my legs and my mind finally agreed to get along and things began to click for me. The fastest of the ride groups caught us and I accelerated to sit in their group of four. I ignored the open stares; (I am pretty used to them by now), and concentrated on the wheel in front of me. I immediately sized up the group. These guys were on a team all fit, all riding very nice equipment, all clearly knew exactly what they were doing. Hmm I decided to try to just hang on and let them play off each other. Soon though, the attacks came and one guy accelerated hard and got about a 100 meter gap. The two in front of me tried but could not respond. I looked up the road: two more sweeping turns and there was the top (or so I thought). I stood up and managed with some great effort to make it up to the rider. He was shocked when I got there I mean he almost crashed looking over his should at me. He accelerated two more times and I struggled to maintain contact. The top is right there, I told myself. Ha, ha. Well, the joke was on me. When we got to the top I let off the pedals and smiled, looking behind me for the Robbie group. The rider I was with attacked, and then the two other guys came flying by me. About 1 kilometer downhill and then I saw the climb was far from over. I was so mad at myself. I tried to regain contact, but my mistake cost me and it was not to be this time. I arrived at the top about 30 seconds behind the three and they were all smiling at me. Of course they spoke no English, but when the ride leader Danny arrived, he told me they were in disbelief I could ride up the climb with them. I was asked to join there group by Danny, who thought it would be funny to have me along. He told me so. Richard arrived in time to tell me to go on with them, so we headed down the descent. They all tried to get in front of me on the descent, obviously assuming I could not descend like them. Well, I just love descending, (when you can't climb you had better know how to descend) and I was willing to take some risks today and soon was at the front. I just kept the pressure on, jumping out of the corners. The descents here really lend themselves to speed, with big sweeping turns. You can see well up the road so you know when cars come. You can easily hit 50 mph on the descents and the faster you go the more addictive it becomes.
Finally at the bottom, and these guys immediately organized a tight echelon. YEAH! A group who really wanted to push it I was in heaven. I was very conservative, just pulling right through as quickly as I could. Then on a long up hill grade, the man in the front of me faltered, pulled off, and I happened to be in a good grove so I stepped it up a notch. The response was immediate with everyone in the group taking short, sharp tight pulls. We worked like this until the base of the Tossa pass. As we were coming up one of the older guys came up to me and said You are a woman. Thanks for noticing, I said. I laughed openly at him. Danny tried to apologize for him, saying to me that never in this group in all the years of these camps has a woman ridden with the group. I reassured him there were plenty of women that could, they were just not here because they were racing. This will be the talk at the buffet tonight, said Danny in his awkward English. We all were wondering what your max was, when you would get lost. I have to say it was with great delight when I looked over and said, The thought never occurred to me. It is so cool when you can tell a little lie like that and they will never know the doubts I had when I started out with them about hanging in their group.
For the last 20 kilometers we averaged 29 mph into a strong cross wind. Amazing what you can do when you are with a very strong, organized group. At the resort, I was offered an apology from the man who asked if I was a woman and high five's from everyone else. They also offered to buy me a beer, but I needed to wash my bike. Besides, I was still feeling the effects of the Sangria from last night. Would you like to have dinner with us, asked Danny? He meant with the fast ride leaders, an exclusive click that has their own table. I was honored, but amused that it took me throwing down with the best of the best of the camp to manage an invite to dinner. I guess it is still a mans sport but I would not have it any other way. Thanks, I replied, but I don't think I rode hard enough to need dinner tonight. His look was one of complete disbelief and then relief as I laughed and told him I would be eating with our clients.
After washing my bike, my clothes and then a taking a dip in the saline pool, I have found I still have time for a nap. Ah, now this is what life is all about. On the docket for tomorrow is a 115 mile ride with a 40 kilometer climb. I have no idea how many from our group will attempt this or even what the alternatives will be. I am just happy I got to stretch my legs a bit today.
Not having seen a newspaper or a TV in a week and very curious what the outcome of the election was, I caught up with a local Spanish rider here I have become friendly with. He told me that the majority won the election, which will not be a good thing for the US. According to Juan, the party that won the election will not support the war in Iraq. The violence seems to have subsided, but it is like the locals are still holding their collective breaths until the next outbreak.
A day of picturesque countryside in Spain, March 17, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
I am writing this after probably far too many sangrias sitting and listening to the ocean, talking cycling, the ups, downs and everywhere in between, it is hard not to get sucked up into the atmosphere. My favorite part of Sangria is the fruit however, I have been told this is the deadliest part of the concoction, hopefully I will not regret my indulgences in the morning.
Today we rode on some of the most beautiful roads I have ever ridden in Europe. I did not know roads like these existed ... they are a cyclist's dream. After leaving a bustling breakfast room, we piled into a motor coach and were driven to Bagnoyles, the Olympic lake that was used for the kayaking events. It is a very pretty area, with the lake the center piece to the looming mountains, sun drenched as we left on our 65 mile journey. The roads were absolutely perfect. Newly paved, they had not a bump and for the first 40 kilometers we had a wonderful tailwind. I was leading a small group who was motivated to ride faster than on previous days.
After explaining the dynamics of a pace-line, we got in a groove and were averaging about 15 mph which is not an easy feat with the climbing in the area. Lunch was fresh pasta, served at a quaint restaurant. Everywhere we rode today there were lovely castles, farms and ancient buildings. It was what you think of when you think of cycling through Europe. And as always the drivers were exceptionally courteous waiting for a wave from someone in the group until they passed.
After lunch I dropped the group off at the motor coach for a lift home, and hooked up with a faster group to go over the mountain range home. I joined up with the four triathletes I have become quite fond of. Steve, Peter, Jimmy and Dave are all strong riders, safe and fun to ride with. The group also contained the German triathlete who attacked me the other day. He was being escorted by another triathlete who gave me the once over as I joined up with them. I was licking my chops to get another lick in at the German, and I could tell from his smile and nod in my direction, the feeling was mutual.
Immediately, the testosterone upped the pace a notch and as we hit the five kilometer col, the four Americans dropped off the pace. Soon it was the two Germans and me. I let them set the pace, and the new tri guy kept upping the pace and then looking to see if I was still there. Finally, I rode along side of him and began to talk to him smiling every once and a while so he had no idea the effect he was having on my legs. Just when I was thinking I could not keep it up, the road turned and I could see the top. Finally! He accelerated, but being that close to the top made things a little easier for me in my mind, and I clicked it up a gear, coming along side him as we went over the top. The funniest thing was that the rider who had tried the same thing with me the other day rode up along side his countryman and laughed openly at him. They jabbered in German and I knew from there exchange the one was asking the other about me. I can't get over how surprised these guys are that there are strong women riding. Imagine if they ever rode with the likes of Lyne Bessette, Kimberly Bruckner or Manon Jutras. Those women would completely kick their butts.
Back at the hotel, I had just enough time to escape to the saline pool. The pool has jets that massage various parts of your legs and back, easing the aches and pains from the ride. From there, it was off to meetings and dinner. Richard Debrot, partner in EuroCycler was not there yet. I learned that he was having an adventure looking for one of the customers who had ridden ahead of his group and had taken a wrong turn. Unfortunately, when he backtracked, he actually ended up going a different way and ended up so turned around he was forced to ask a local restaurant owner for a ride back to the resort. This was quite generous of the restaurateur who had to drive about 40 kilometers to deliver Phil back safely.
During dinner I listened to the animated conversations in German, Spanish, Italian, French and English. And although I did not understand the conversations, I could hear the familiar energy as the story of the day was told, the attacks replayed, the struggles on the climbs revisited, and the satisfaction of meeting the challenges of the day shared with the table. This is a community brought together by one thing the joy of cycling. No matter the nationality, sex, age or fitness, every single one of the 600 people are here because they love the freedom the bike brings to life. No matter where we are in life, the bike brings us back to the exquisite joy of being a carefree child again.
Tomorrow is a rest day of 76 kilometers. I am hoping for some more sun and early departure so I can come back and catch some rays on the beach.
A field trip to Gerona, March 16, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Today was a real tourist ride into the city of Gerona. We pulled out of the hotel around 10:30 and took our time descending into Tossa and then up over the Tossa Pass. The wind was whipping us around a bit and I think that our group was happy to have companions on the 45 kilometer trip. Upon arriving into Gerona, we found the pedestrian mall and I immediately found the chocolate shop. The smell was overwhelming - calling me to indulge in some sinfully good chocolate, and I could not resist. The shop was lovely, and the packaging very nice with drawings from what I guess to be a local artist – but best of all the chocolate was 75% cocoa! That is my favorite kind.
We sat in the sun and kicked back over some omelet sandwiches and cappuccinos. While we were relishing the atmosphere and experience Dede and Michael Barry walked by without recognizing us. Finally Dede and I made eye contact and there was an awkward hello as two Americans realize they are in the same magical place at the same time. It always catches you off guard when you see someone from home in a place you least expect it. I had forgotten they lived here – of course, you hear all about Lance living in the area, but he overshadows the other great cyclists in this area like Michael and Roberto Heras.
Like the typical American tourists we could not help but take some pictures. I am not usually a picture taker, but here is one of the views I ride by every day. Nice – eh? We rode home at a much more brisk pace than we came as we had the wind at our back. All in all is was a lovely way to spend the day in Spain. Gerona is a gorgeous city, with much less people, noise, and pollution than Barcelona.
Friends take care of friends, March 15, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
Today’s ride began with a bus trip. Due to the discrepancy of the group’s fitness, we created two rides not in the typical program, a cappuccino ride and an espresso ride. These were 40 and 50 kilometers respectively. They followed the coast, with gorgeous views but plenty of climbing and wind, for most, this was plenty of challenge for the day. Rich and Richard took these rides, and I took half of the remainder of the group to a starting point about 30 k from the hotel. From there we rode for about 26 kilometers before we climbed a 6 kilometer climb up to the top for a pasta lunch.
The group was well suited for everyone, and the pace was a steady 21 kilometers to the base of the climb. From there, I was given the green light to “go” from the riders and the leader. I could not contain myself and went up that climb as hard as my legs would carry me. After three days of feeling like I had been doing nothing, my legs were slow to respond. Then, after the first steep section, the switch was flipped and I found my rhythm. I really enjoyed working myself over, despite all the voices in my head telling me to take it easy, I just had to test myself. What is it about an athlete that always needs to find his or her limits?
Once I got to the top, I turned around and descended until I began meeting the Americans coming up the climb. Cheering them on, I would ride with them to the top and then turn around and find another rider. I did this a bunch of times until our entire group (about 12 total) had reached the top. By the time I crested the summit with the last rider, everyone was devouring the pasta lunch. I forewent the pasta, choosing instead to change into dry clothes and check out the spectacular view. In the distance the Pyrenees loomed, looking majestic with their snow covered peaks. After the climb, people were a lot braver, and the new groups were selected. I went with the four triathletes from New England, making our total group seven. Robbie was our leader, and one other German triathlete joined us. The descent was a blast, with big swooping turns, and enough steepness that little pedaling was required. We past many big groups of local cyclists coming up the other side, all of them nodding and saying what I can only assume were hellos. From the bottom we began our way back to Tossa, but the headwind was brutal. I helped Robbie pull, because we had to keep our average at 19 mph, and he was tired after pulling to the climb. The ride leaders here are incredible, keeping the average speed exact. Man, the wind was crazy, and I pulled for what felt like an eternity but was only 30 minutes before we hit the next climb. This was the Tossa pass that we did yesterday. I knew it pretty well and was ready in my mind for the tough sections. I set a pace that felt conservative, but the others, having started from the hotel, had more kilometers in their legs and dropped off the pace. The only one who hung with me was the German. He came around me with a k to go and kicked it pretty hard. I could not let him go and stepped it up to stay on his wheel. At the first summit he looked over and said, “ok, ok, enough.” I smiled and said “ok.” I then just sat on his wheel, letting him set the pace again. But at the second portion of the climb, he jumped, then looked back and jumped again. I was kind of pissed at that, and so I figured I had nothing to lose and took a hard jump, going by him and kept going over the top. When he caught me on the descent, he asked me “who are you?” “Are you a triathlete?” “No,” I replied, much to his relief. I wanted to say "Bond, James Bond" or something like that, but my wit was elusive at that moment. Then we got to Tossa, the others caught up with us, and three of the triathletes were pretty cooked. They had worked hard. What was really cool though, was how encouraging they were of each other. There was a bond there that had formed on the long climb, they had all suffered together and overcome the challenge as a team. I could tell that this was a story that would be told and retold; it was a making of a legend for these four guys, and a memory that would buoy them up when they needed it in their Ironman events. Arriving back home we sat on the patio and enjoyed a cappuccino before hitting the showers. Tomorrow is an easy 60 kilometers to Gerona for lunch on the town.
The real reason why people ride their bikes, March 14, 2004
Pictures and additional stories are at Photos
I always glamorized traveling to Spain. It was one of those things you talked about with your friends while sipping a venti skim half decaf dry cappuccino at Starbucks. “Oh, I am departing for Spain in a few days, I just don’t know what to bring. Well, right now, traveling to Europe, this part in particular is more scary than glamorous.
There are currently 11 million people protesting in the streets of Madrid, and tension is high. I assume we are isolated here in the mountains high above the ocean in our cyclist’s dream retreat, however, you can see the strain of concern on the faces of the staff. I know there thoughts are not on what athlete need a massage, or whose bike needs to be washed, or what special dinner needs to be prepared, but rather if their loved ones are safe and what the future holds for their children. The election is today, and it is everyone’s hope that the tension will subside. Interestingly though, the Europeans here have told me that they are accustomed to the violence. He told me that the Europeans have a “Oklahoma City every few months or so…” “It is upsetting but expected.
Enough politics. After a substantial breakfast, including eggs cooked however you would like, crepes, fruit, possibly the best muesli in the world (the Swiss know how to make it like no one else) and of course potatoes, meat and even pasta, everyone disappeared to pull on their kit for the group rides. On their way they visited the lunch bar and made themselves lunch which would go into their bags and then into the follow vehicle for the lunch stop. I make honey and bananas on fresh baked bread! Oh my goodness, it is so good. I try to stay away from all the yummy biscuits offered, but I figure by the end of this 800 kilometer week, I may be reaching for some of the kind covered in chocolate.
Out at the front of the hotel, there is a railing that has five bends in it and encircles the flowering plants in the middle. Beginning at 9 AM bikes are hung on the rails and last minute preparations are made to lunch bags, bottles and clothing. This resort has though | | | |
