Heading into the Pyrenees

Climbing out of Mazamet.
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The Tour de France always visits the two great mountain chains that border France to the Southeast (Alps) and Southwest (Pyrenees). We have riden through the Alps and so now its the turn of the Pyrenees. Generally, the Pyrenees are harder with climbs that might not be as high, but are much sharper and steeper on narrower, bumpier roads.

Today we would ride the first half of Stage 14, a mountain stage from Mazamet to Plateau-de-Beille. We started in the town of Mazamet, famous for its wool and fellmongery industries but also the home town of a Tour de France legend in Laurent Jalabert. We immediately ascended a Category 2 climb over Cote de St-Saraille (9.0km at 5.3%) though a deep forest with views back to Mazamet and an old abandoned village in the hills. Then followed a sensational downhill stretch of about 35km into the town of Carcasonne. We then started climbing into the foothills of the Pyrenees aiming for the small but pretty town of Quillan. Chris was there to meet us on arrival. He did such a good job of feeding and watering the boys that we have promoted him to Junior Vice President of Operations in recognition of his efforts. Such a role, of course, comes with extra responsibilities, so we will see how he handles them!

Started in the town of Mazamet, famous for its fellmongery industries but also the home of Tour de France legend.

Andy submitting himself for a random EPO check!
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Good day after tough day yesterday. You know you must be getting fit when you consider a 100km ride including a Category 2 hill an 'easy' day. Total for the day was 98.2km in 3 hrs 55min at 25.0km. Good average speed considering we covered 16km in first hour! Total distance 1782.1 km.