Du Huez Du Huez!!!

No rain overnight and a beautiful day in store. I languished in camp enjoying a good breakfast and also hiding tired legs as long as possible before taking on Du Huez !!

I set off from Ferme Noemie around 9.45 and would have my photo taken at the top at 12.12.59 after waiting in a queue.

The climb has 21 virages or corners and the are all marked. The first stretch is quite tough and I am a little worried that the old legs will not make it. I settled into a nice steady rhythm an soon the corners come and go plus the legs start enjoying it more and more. It proves to be a nice climb with a bit of a sting coming only after you reach the 10% gradient. Once you reach the Du Huez village you think it is done then you climb the terraces and finally I pass the polka dot bus to the finish. I have my photo taken by a kind onlooker and then ride up to see where the road leads to. I discover some lakes and more incredible views.

On my way down I stop and take lots of photos that I had planned on the up journey being determined to enjoy a tough climb on “Big Orange” without killing myself. I am again amazed at the pace the pro’s race up these mountains and I am holding thumbs that Froomey can defend his lead after serious attacks from all including his biggest rival Nairo Quintana. Tomorrow will deliver a HUGE challenge for Chris!!!

I watched the drama unfold and our team finish in 5th spot on team GC so another celebration is called for!!

Tomorrow I pedal to back to Grenoble and catch the TGV to Paris for the final day of the 2015 TdF that I have been privileged to see in person………

Eugene on a bike somewhere in the world