Some more big rides completed over the last week or so are indications that training is still in full flow. But now for the interesting stuff. The What, When and How….
Bike Packing Instructions:
We will get as many bikes as possible in the van, potentially all 10 (we have Mr. and Mrs. Colonels’, too), so;
· We will be front wheels and pedals off, so make sure your pedals are loose in advance, we wouldn’t want a repeat of Bordeaux Pedalgate.
· Pack your front wheel in a wheel bag or in bubble wrap and protect your fork.
· Use lagging, available from all good hardware shops and plumbers’ merchants (and some bad ones as well) to protect your frame.
· Save any large cardboard boxes so that we can pack in between the bikes for protection.
· Bungees – we need as many as possible to secure our precious load, so get hunting through your garages and sheds. Otherwise I find father in-laws are good sources of such practical items.
I will also load a bike stand, bike tool kit and a couple of track pumps on to the van. I will also chuck in a couple of spare tyres and other sundry items.
Kit:
This, of course, is up to you but personally, I will be pretty much prepared for any weather. Blindly expecting 30degC, I was caught out last time and nearly froze on the fabled soggy descent of Tourmalet. Equally it could be, and is more likely to be, a 34degC blockbuster. Bomber will keep us updated on the long-term weather forecast but mountains are unpredictable.
Essentials you need to bring (or no ride):
· Passport
· Medical Certificate
· Convocation – will be emailed to you by ASO in the run-up
· Helmet
· Bike
It is worth taking a photo of each of the docs on your phone just in case.
Itinerary:
Thursday 7th July
08.00 – DP and JB pick up van from Kendall Van Hire, Guildford and begin bike pick-ups and packing. Hopefully get 8 or even 10 bikes in the van, remainder on the Qashqai.
13.00 – Grand Depart from the Ming
16.20 – Eurotunnel Folkestone-Calais
17.55 – Arrive Calais
Drive to Inter Hotel Liberty, Bruay-la-Buissiere (about 1hr) http://www.liberty-hotel- bruay.com/?lang=en
Dinner and bed.
Friday 8th July
08.00 – depart Bruay-la-Buissiere for Megeve. Approx 8hrs driving time.
Approx 18.00 arrive Megeve, check in to Fiasco Party House, register for Etape at the village (I think it closes at 8pm), dinner and bed.
http://www.ski-chalet-megeve. co.uk/?gclid= CIWZnJaak80CFUORGwodwKgAOQ
Saturday 9th July
Day of rest and getting ready, unpack and build bikes, visit Etape Village, hot-tub action etc. Maybe even a turn of the legs.
Duncan and Richard to take vehicles to Morzine and return on shuttle bus.
Evening Pasta Party at the Fiasco Party House.
Sunday 10th July
Go for a bike ride, meet at finish in Morzine and drive back to Megeve for a few thé verts.
Monday 11th July
9am Depart Megeve for St-Quentin – Ibis St. Quentin Basilique – 4 twin rooms booked.
Approx 7 hrs driving time.
Dinner in St.Quentin
Tuesday 12th July
Short hop up to Calais for 14.20 Eurotunnel, approx. 2 hrs driving time. We could get an earlier crossing if we are sprightly but in any case we should be back in the Ming for about 4pm.
FIN.
The Chairman