L'Etape Du Tour 2008
The 2008 L'Etape route was announced in Paris on 25th october and while initially it might appear easier than some previous routes anyone who has ridden an etape before will tell you that all are a challenge. The two main climbs will be a good test for any etape rider as indeed for the tour riders one week later. In the etape du tour we get an opportunity to appreciate how elite the tour riders really are, something those who watch it from the roadside or on TV can never full appreciate.
In 2007 we had a wonderful group travel with us and their performance was to be applauded. It was a pleasure for us as hosts to have such a fine group of cyclists decide yet again to travel with us to this premier of events. Those who had riden the event before (some of whom are in the picture below) yet again did great rides. It was a pleasure to see the newcommers doing so well. What stories and memories they have left all of us who rode the event (including myself). For me personally ,meeting a guy with only one leg on the first col made my day. The thought that went through my head as I passed him, patting him on the back (a gesture he acknowledged) was.."What a privilage it was to be biking with a person of such character" .Thus if I was to sum up what I like about the race is that... the etape du tour is an event in which cyclists of great character both male and female, of all ages get to bike together on a typical Tour de France stage.....and most of all what a privilage to be able to be one of them.
Long may we all have good enough health and spirit to do this and other such events.
With regard to the 2008 trip, we have put together a wonderful five day package. We will be staying in the town of Argeles- Gazost at the foot of the Hautacam. So we will be convenient to both the start and more importantly the finish.With regard to entries , most are already gone so if you are interested contact us immediately either by email or phone.
I look forward to biking with you in 2008.
Photo below is of some of those who have done the etape du tour with us.
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