Cycling with a purpose

Well I did it - what an adventure. I actually enjoyed the Pyrennes and Alpes. So much so, I want to enter the 2007 Etape in the Pyrennes.

Full report of the ride and plenty of photos at cancercharitytour.comcancercharitytour.comOpen ↗

Keep spinning folks

Congratulations! Very impressive! How did you prepare for the ride?

Powerful Pete said:

Congratulations! Very impressive! How did you prepare for the ride?

Thanks. Very fortunate living in the Dordogne, France and being semi-retired. Trained for about 18 months, with gradual distance build up. Only cycled stage distance a couple of times before the off. Plenty of runs about 60-75% distance in 2/3 months to start - similar to marathon run training. All solo, apart from 6 runs with 1 other rider. Worked on 2/3 days riding and 1 rest day from about May.
Main aim was to improve on hills and we have plenty around here. Most not as long as Pyrennes or Alps but just as steep with some shorter 1 to 3 kms at 15 and 16%.
Interestingly, since the ride I have been able to improve on most of my training routes especially the hills. This must be as a result of the mountains and riding every day except for two rest days.
It was a wonderful experience and I am very fortunate at having had the opportunity to undertake the ride.