Another two mountain climb day with two of the iconic climbs of the Tour de France...Col du Tourmalet, followed by the Col de l'Aspin. Another 3000m of up over some 90 kms or so. The weather is holding up well...still hot but rain does look very imminent. Maybe tomorrow?
The pecking order amongst the climbers has pretty much settled into a pattern. Bill and Ben (aka the Flowerpot Men) lead the charge up the mountains while the rest of us drag our sorry arses up the climbs as best we can. Alistair and Jim (La Fuga tour leaders) are extremely patient and encouraging.... to their eternal credit. Jim constantly flits up and down the mountain, seemingly effortlessly, checking that everyone is ok.
We regroup at the top, descend, each lunch and then repeat the process. Days like today finish with a swim and beers. This is the best part for most of us.
Tomorrow looks a bit more serious..FOUR climbs. Early night I hope.
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| Looking back from the Tourmalet |
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| Weakness leaving the body |
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| Russell cruising up the Toumalet..highest peak of our tour |
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| Three happy punters at the top |
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| Sheep are a major road hazard on the descent |
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The best part of the ride
Rogues Gallery Part 3 |
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| Jim celebrates the climb with retail therapy |
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| Dave is always sparkling company at lunch |
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