I joined the team in the south of France at the start of the exciting Catamaran crossing to Corsica on Panasha. The cyclist were exhausted but elated and quite rightly proud of their epic last day cycle of 175K. It was great to meet up with so many enthusiastic, positive and fun people and we were ready for phase three of the Mont Blanc to Mont Cinto epic.
We departed the following morning in fine weather and set sail due South East to Corsica for a thoroughly relaxing fourteen hours of sailing. Panasha is an amazing craft with so much more room than your average 60ft Yacht and you can even stand up both downstairs and up. It was great to just chill, talk to new members of the team and just enjoy the cruise. After five hours into the journey we were joined by a group of Dolphins who swam alongside, under and in front of Panasha for a good twenty minutes before plunging back into the depths of the deep blue Mediterranean sea. This was certainly the highlight of the crossing and something I will never forget. After a delicious feast prepared by Julia we set up a stag (look out system) into the early hours of the morning and arrived in calm waters and rested till we were joined by the road party.
The Kayak phase for me was the highlight of the expedition and having heard so much about the coast from Daron, I was really looking forward to experiencing all the amazing cliffs, coves and beeches. After a few hours of kit packing, checking and re checking we were off in our Flotilla of double and single sea Kayaks led by the stunning (Corsican Lass) and Jim from Ireland. The group was diverse with a wide range of experiences and after thirty minutes everyone settled into a comfortable and steady pace. The group crossed a couple of bays and rounding the main headland after four hours of continuous paddling we stopped off for a lunch break on a beautiful sandy beach. Panasha joined us and lunch was ferried to the shore. After a well earned rest the group continued on the more spectacular part of the day and we were soon gliding amongst some of the most stunning caves, coves and inlets that Corsica has to offer. We imagined what must have hidden in these very coves hundreds of years ago from Roman war ships to pirates of the high seas. The group led by Daron then headed further along the coast to a spectacular water fall set inside some challenging rock formations. One by one the group plucked up courage and we were all soon braving the swell and entering the base of the waterfall. A further forty minutes with more amazing views took us to our resting place for the first evening where Panasha was waiting patiently for the weary paddlers. Kayaks were stashed on the beach and we returned to our mother ship for a another slap up dinner provided by Corrie and Julia.
Reports of strong winds for day two confirmed that we should be off earlier than later and after much kit shuffling and kayak jumping the group was on its way including our in house Camera Man who shared a double with Jim. We followed the bay shore rather than crossing over due to the noticeable increased swell and every now and then the groups would disappear behind huge waves. The swell was picking up and we all wished we had left earlier. The group pressed on and after two hours we were following the coast into the ever increasing waves. Keeping the group together was proving more challenging than avoiding the dreaded capsize and as we rounded the coast we started to experience the double wammy wave system not only from the high seas but also rebounding off the cliffs. The group were now committed, there was no going back and there were no sandy beaches to rest or escape to. Everyone was totally focused on the NOW, every swell, every wave was examined and carefully negotiated. It was exhilarating, thrilling, tense and for those in singles slightly more uncomfortable and insecure. I had taken part in previous open sea challenges crossing the seven mile Straights of Lewis in the Hebrides and this was totally different. In Lewis the waves were coming from one direction and hear in Corsica we were experiencing confused, rough and intimidating seas. Our objective was the next headland were we would be spared the double wave bashing and we focused and encouraged each other. God knows how the inexperienced kayakers amongst the group felt!!
At last we rounded the headland and were now hurtling inward towards our rendezvous for the night. A sheltered bay with a defensive castle and a good dinner. We were now relaxing and the ricocheting waves had stopped and the worst was over. Suddenly a cry of Capsize was shouted!! Max was in and a rescue mission was despatched. Soon Max was back in and the group surfed the final two kilometres into base camp.
The wind was too strong for day three and an alternative plan was hatched. After a fascinating team discussion on the future of Active Earth and many other subjects of interest the group departed on foot for a stunning coastal walk to the bike pick up location. A quick 20 mile (mostly downhill) race took the team back to Panasha for a further evening of feasting and relaxation.
Day four involved a spectacular cycle challenge of 150K from base camp at Panasha to the base village of Mont Cinto. Jim, Richard and I stayed together as a group and the racers consisting of Daron, Mark, Max, Karyn gave the Tortoises a two hour head start and it was not long before they came hurtling past us only to be overtaken by us twenty seconds later to be overtaken again and left behind for good! The Scottish team had not prepared well for this leg and after turning a few heads in the local village soon realised that boxer shorts were not the recommended attire on such cycling missions. The route was stunning and many parts of the countryside resembled remote parts of Scotland where masses of deserted Sheilings (dwellings) could be sighted. We eventually met up with the rest of the group having been picked up in the dark approaching the final few miles. A great day in the Corsican Country.
Our final day involved the entire group heading off at a gentle pace to walk to the top of Mont Cinto. We soon split into small groups and after four hours of more spectacular mountain scenery we reached the top of the mountain. The team formed up for photographs and we headed back down as the weather started to close in. Eight hours and we were back at base and soon heading back to the Ajaccio for a slap up dinner.
The trip had been an extraordinary feat of logistics and organisation and despite the weather causing havoc on Mont Blanc and over the initial cycling phases the group had stuck together and shone through with flying colours. A great group of people were bought together and experiences were shared that will remain with us forever. The Active Earth Travel group, Daron and Corrie deserve a huge amount of praise for putting such an ambitious project together and pulling it off with no injuries or loss of life. As an event organiser I am only too aware of the opportunities for things to go wrong and the project was managed with skill and professionalism.
The Mont Blanc to Cinto Mission has confirmed in all our minds the importance of sharing outdoor experiences through challenges and what this brings to the individual and the group. We need to understand our environment better and by engaging with it we increase that understanding and respect for nature. This trip has served as a catalyst to move forward with the Active Earth Foundation so that we can now go out and do our part in creating awareness for peace and sustainability.
Monday, July 7. 2008
The Fabulous Mr Fox Speaks.....
Monday, June 16. 2008
Feedback from Ritch
Friday, June 13. 2008
Nature and nurture
Last year I met Daron Sheehan and was impressed with the energy with which he was setting up Active Earth. Even in the face of climate change and unsustainable business it is often easier to ignore the facts than act - it takes a visionary to bring people together for real change.
It has been a great privilege and pleasure to host the inaugural Mont Blanc to Mont Cinto. Apart from leading the cycling stage and presenting some the filming, this was as much of a learning curve for me as everyone else in terms of the Active Earth mission. Congratulations to Jed for his rare talents in facilitating these emotive discussions. As a first event and fairly new organisation, the event was not without its logistical challenges and so well done to all the participants for their teamwork and resolve.
My main concern coming into this was the link between discussion and action. It was reassuring to find that Active Earth very much lives in the real world as opposed to simply intellectual discussion and is already involved in a number of interesting international projects. I can imagine that others will have the same questions and it is important to know that despite a clear mission statement, Active Earth is not a strict movement but rather a proactive forum for discussion and action and is as diverse and interesting as its members.
Thanks again for this opportunity and I look forwards to the next challenge.
Mark Beaumont
It has been a great privilege and pleasure to host the inaugural Mont Blanc to Mont Cinto. Apart from leading the cycling stage and presenting some the filming, this was as much of a learning curve for me as everyone else in terms of the Active Earth mission. Congratulations to Jed for his rare talents in facilitating these emotive discussions. As a first event and fairly new organisation, the event was not without its logistical challenges and so well done to all the participants for their teamwork and resolve.
My main concern coming into this was the link between discussion and action. It was reassuring to find that Active Earth very much lives in the real world as opposed to simply intellectual discussion and is already involved in a number of interesting international projects. I can imagine that others will have the same questions and it is important to know that despite a clear mission statement, Active Earth is not a strict movement but rather a proactive forum for discussion and action and is as diverse and interesting as its members.
Thanks again for this opportunity and I look forwards to the next challenge.
Mark Beaumont
Some of the usual suspects on the 4 day cycle stage from Chamonix to Toulon
Wednesday, June 11. 2008
Let's all start climbing !
When Daron first spoke to me about the “Mont Blanc to Mont Cinto” project almost a year ago, for a moment, I thought he was plain mad. I certainly loved the idea, and was eager to undertake the formidable journey by ski, bike, kayak and foot, but the logistics required for such an event seemed too complicated to be able to carry it out especially with so many different sports, participants and venues involved.
Yet he pulled it off perfectly and in style. I for one, and undoubtedly every participant who completed the journey or part of it will surely agree to this, and will carry fond memories of MB2MC ‘08, together with a useful bundle of interesting information and ideas to make our planet a better, more peaceful and sustainable one.
For my part, namely the mountaineering stages, I am sorry that we weren’t able to complete them as originally planned. We sure tried our very best, but time and again, mother nature seemed to want to remind us -in a gentle way thank God- that it is not exactly pleased with the way we have been treating it of late, and that it will invariably have the last word. Ironically, this is precisely one of the more important messages we discussed during this trip, and one that we would like to convey to others, especially the young generation.
Well done everyone ! Well done Active Earth !
On behalf of myself and the youth of my country and region -who are undoubtedly those who will ultimately benefit most from the MB2MC lessons learned- I sincerely thank all those who made this event possible, and reassure them that I will indeed do my part in “raising awareness for peace and sustainability through sports and adventure”.
A wise man once said: “it is when you reach the mountain top that the climb begins”, so although we didn’t quite reach the tippy-top this time, let’s all start climbing !
Yours in sport,
Max Chaya
max@thethreepoles.com
Yet he pulled it off perfectly and in style. I for one, and undoubtedly every participant who completed the journey or part of it will surely agree to this, and will carry fond memories of MB2MC ‘08, together with a useful bundle of interesting information and ideas to make our planet a better, more peaceful and sustainable one.
For my part, namely the mountaineering stages, I am sorry that we weren’t able to complete them as originally planned. We sure tried our very best, but time and again, mother nature seemed to want to remind us -in a gentle way thank God- that it is not exactly pleased with the way we have been treating it of late, and that it will invariably have the last word. Ironically, this is precisely one of the more important messages we discussed during this trip, and one that we would like to convey to others, especially the young generation.
Well done everyone ! Well done Active Earth !
On behalf of myself and the youth of my country and region -who are undoubtedly those who will ultimately benefit most from the MB2MC lessons learned- I sincerely thank all those who made this event possible, and reassure them that I will indeed do my part in “raising awareness for peace and sustainability through sports and adventure”.
A wise man once said: “it is when you reach the mountain top that the climb begins”, so although we didn’t quite reach the tippy-top this time, let’s all start climbing !
Yours in sport,
Max Chaya
max@thethreepoles.com
The final goodbye of the last Active Earth group leaving Nice airport. "Ce n'est qu'un AU REVOIR!"
Saturday, June 7. 2008
A Triumphant Finale
From Jed Milroy,
The morning of the last day of Mont Blanc to Mont Cinto found the Active Earth crew in somewhat more unusual environs. The flaking paint and psychodelic murals of the Port Asco dormitory left some of the group thinking they were still dreaming.
After a quick breakfast of coffee and croissants we were heading up the trail. The weather looked good with blue skies and cloud capped summits. Spirits were high and plenty of animated discussion was punctuating the stunning ascent. Even as we approached the snow line broad shorts and trainers still seemed appropriate. After a breezy ascent yesterday David had decided to wear trousers today.
This was where the climbing really started scrambling over loose rock and snow towards the daunting ridge line which was mostly shrouded in cloud. Some of the group started to feel the effects of the four hours of climbing and the need for concentration was paramount due to loose scree and boulders.
After a slow climb we reached the ridge and traversed towards the summit. As we gathered the group on the anti-summit, a closeby clap of thunder quickly dampened the europhic atmosphere. Paddy was reminded of the grave warnings of the restauranteer in Asco who had forecast death and doom to anyone climbing Mont Cinto this weekend.
Yves, our resident mountain guide, made the call to turn back just 50m short of the summit. A difficult call but vital in the circumstances.
Meanwhile back in the refuge concern was mounting. Our faithful support crew (Corrie) had taken on the role of calming the local's panic that we were all doomed...
As Tony's concern for whether he would see his family again mounted, Ramseyes (Raja's brother) handed Yves a bible. As we began our descent, some of the hardier Active Earth media types stayed to snatch a brief interview to camera. Mark Beaumont, giddy with the altitude and a little numbed by the cold, found himself once again in an extreme interview situation.
The descent like Yves was beautiful yet slimy. Around 5ish the group arrived safely back to the refuge, which was by now full of concerned locals and hot chocolate.
Once again we were reminded that we must always respect Nature. The real achievement of the day was the team work in taking an international team of committed individuals with mixed skills and abilities from Germany, Lebanon, Australia, South Africa, Switzerland, Scotland, Ireland, Norway, England and France on such a beautiful adventure journey Raising Awareness for Peace and Sustainability.
The morning of the last day of Mont Blanc to Mont Cinto found the Active Earth crew in somewhat more unusual environs. The flaking paint and psychodelic murals of the Port Asco dormitory left some of the group thinking they were still dreaming.
Stunning scenery ! (Photo courtesy of Max)
After a quick breakfast of coffee and croissants we were heading up the trail. The weather looked good with blue skies and cloud capped summits. Spirits were high and plenty of animated discussion was punctuating the stunning ascent. Even as we approached the snow line broad shorts and trainers still seemed appropriate. After a breezy ascent yesterday David had decided to wear trousers today.
The thick fog would occasionally give way revealing the impressive rock faces of Mont Cinto. (Photo courtesy of Max)
This was where the climbing really started scrambling over loose rock and snow towards the daunting ridge line which was mostly shrouded in cloud. Some of the group started to feel the effects of the four hours of climbing and the need for concentration was paramount due to loose scree and boulders.
Scotland (represented by DFP) leading the pack on the non-technical sections. (Photo courtesy of Max)
After a slow climb we reached the ridge and traversed towards the summit. As we gathered the group on the anti-summit, a closeby clap of thunder quickly dampened the europhic atmosphere. Paddy was reminded of the grave warnings of the restauranteer in Asco who had forecast death and doom to anyone climbing Mont Cinto this weekend.
Wet and cold yet jubilant a the summit. (Photo courtesy of Max)
Yves, our resident mountain guide, made the call to turn back just 50m short of the summit. A difficult call but vital in the circumstances.
Meanwhile back in the refuge concern was mounting. Our faithful support crew (Corrie) had taken on the role of calming the local's panic that we were all doomed...
As Tony's concern for whether he would see his family again mounted, Ramseyes (Raja's brother) handed Yves a bible. As we began our descent, some of the hardier Active Earth media types stayed to snatch a brief interview to camera. Mark Beaumont, giddy with the altitude and a little numbed by the cold, found himself once again in an extreme interview situation.
A slippery slope! (Photo courtesy of Max)
The descent like Yves was beautiful yet slimy. Around 5ish the group arrived safely back to the refuge, which was by now full of concerned locals and hot chocolate.
Once again we were reminded that we must always respect Nature. The real achievement of the day was the team work in taking an international team of committed individuals with mixed skills and abilities from Germany, Lebanon, Australia, South Africa, Switzerland, Scotland, Ireland, Norway, England and France on such a beautiful adventure journey Raising Awareness for Peace and Sustainability.
Which way did they go!
From Paddy Cave.
About 10 minutes after leaving Panasha, I took a wrong turn. The wrong turn took me over a stunning mountain col and I saw over a hundred dead boar skins decorating a farmer's fence.
On arrival in Calvi I realised that the slow group that I was trying to catch up must have made up some ground ahead of me so I set off immediately in pursuit, without stopping for food. About 100km later I arrived in Asco where the locals assured me that no cyclists had passed in a week. I realised that the slow group were not ahead of me. So after a cafe au lait and a lengthy warning about climbing mont cinto I made my way up the 15km climb to the gite.
Climbing over 1,000m provided a beautiful transition to Alpine Scenery. Arriving at the gite, spectacular peaks were framed by the clouds.
Meanwhile whilst I was clocking up the miles, the rest of the group took the scenic coastal route to calvi where they enjoyed a 3 course lunch spread over 2 hours 'which would explain why I did not see them on my pursuit'. After lunch and saying goodbye to perry the group enjoyed a beautiful section of road to Belgodere.
The group was pleased to have clocked up 80 scenic kilometres. David Fox-Pitt had undertaken the whole stretch in his M&S boxer shorts. Alongside David stood Jim Morrissey wearing a pair of budgie smugglers. As David broke into an impromptu Scottish jig, the locals gathered around to witness this unusual spectacle.
A quick look at the map and the watch spread confusion and panic with the realisation that there was still 70km and 1,300m of vertical left to do and it was gone 5 o'clock. Briefly the group motivation faltered and David wondered whether there was sufficient skin remaining on his rear end to last the day.
The group arrived finally at the gite between 10pm and 11.30pm for a welcome meal at the end of another cracking day!
About 10 minutes after leaving Panasha, I took a wrong turn. The wrong turn took me over a stunning mountain col and I saw over a hundred dead boar skins decorating a farmer's fence.
Mark, Karyn and Daron wondering which way to go to Calvi. Although longer, the 32km coastal road to the left proved to be the correct one. (Photo by Max)
On arrival in Calvi I realised that the slow group that I was trying to catch up must have made up some ground ahead of me so I set off immediately in pursuit, without stopping for food. About 100km later I arrived in Asco where the locals assured me that no cyclists had passed in a week. I realised that the slow group were not ahead of me. So after a cafe au lait and a lengthy warning about climbing mont cinto I made my way up the 15km climb to the gite.
Climbing over 1,000m provided a beautiful transition to Alpine Scenery. Arriving at the gite, spectacular peaks were framed by the clouds.
While Paddy is climbing the col, Daron, Karyn and Mark "clocking up the miles" on the scenic coastal road to beautiful Calvi. (photo by Max)
Meanwhile whilst I was clocking up the miles, the rest of the group took the scenic coastal route to calvi where they enjoyed a 3 course lunch spread over 2 hours 'which would explain why I did not see them on my pursuit'. After lunch and saying goodbye to perry the group enjoyed a beautiful section of road to Belgodere.
The Active Earth cycling group in Calvi "à table" headed by Perry who was to leave us for the airport straight after lunch. (Photo by Max)
The group was pleased to have clocked up 80 scenic kilometres. David Fox-Pitt had undertaken the whole stretch in his M&S boxer shorts. Alongside David stood Jim Morrissey wearing a pair of budgie smugglers. As David broke into an impromptu Scottish jig, the locals gathered around to witness this unusual spectacle.
A quick look at the map and the watch spread confusion and panic with the realisation that there was still 70km and 1,300m of vertical left to do and it was gone 5 o'clock. Briefly the group motivation faltered and David wondered whether there was sufficient skin remaining on his rear end to last the day.
The group arrived finally at the gite between 10pm and 11.30pm for a welcome meal at the end of another cracking day!
Friday, June 6. 2008
Pack up the kayaks
Day 3
Strong winds and high seas kybosh any chance of continuing on kayaks as even the large tourist pleasure cruisers refuse to venture out.
The morning is spent covering some Active Earth theory, looking at the role of adventure in the transformation towards peace and sustainability. Lively discussions follow as the group relate their experiences to the subject matter.
After a hearty lunch and plenty of caffine the group splits into three to connect Giroulata to Galeria by non-motorised means.
Group 1 (those who could not participate in the sailing crossing) took to the high seas in Panasha braving ferocious seas and winds to sail through the Scandola Nature Reserve, with Klaus getting excellent action footage as the 47ft catamaran was tossed about like a toy boat sending the kitchen utensils and provisions crashing to the floor.
Group 2 undertook a 2 hour hike and then a 2 hour cycle culminating in a glorious scenic descent into Galeria.
Group 3 took on a 8hr hiking route which passed over a beautiful ridge at around 800m which gave stunning views, completing the 25km plus run and over 1km climb in under 3 hours.
We have amazing photos and footage that will soon make it onto the blog. We have had no opportunity to upload photos since leaving the South of France. Corsica is wild and beautiful and that comes at the price of easy internet access.
Today we are now all undertaking a 100km plus cycle with over 2km of vertical to reach Asco, our base camp for the final stage, the ascent of Mont Cinto.
Strong winds and high seas kybosh any chance of continuing on kayaks as even the large tourist pleasure cruisers refuse to venture out.
The Kayaks are kept on shore as the storm hits Girolata. Panasha too is safely moored in the port, away from the high seas. (Photo by Max)
The morning is spent covering some Active Earth theory, looking at the role of adventure in the transformation towards peace and sustainability. Lively discussions follow as the group relate their experiences to the subject matter.
As the storm hits Girolata, the group engage in meaningful discussions on sustainability. Daron speaks as Tony, David, Karyn, Fi and Richard listen attentively. (Photo by Max)
After a hearty lunch and plenty of caffine the group splits into three to connect Giroulata to Galeria by non-motorised means.
Group 1 (those who could not participate in the sailing crossing) took to the high seas in Panasha braving ferocious seas and winds to sail through the Scandola Nature Reserve, with Klaus getting excellent action footage as the 47ft catamaran was tossed about like a toy boat sending the kitchen utensils and provisions crashing to the floor.
Group 2 undertook a 2 hour hike and then a 2 hour cycle culminating in a glorious scenic descent into Galeria.
Tony heads the group during the climb up from Girolata. (Photo by Max)
Group 3 took on a 8hr hiking route which passed over a beautiful ridge at around 800m which gave stunning views, completing the 25km plus run and over 1km climb in under 3 hours.
We have amazing photos and footage that will soon make it onto the blog. We have had no opportunity to upload photos since leaving the South of France. Corsica is wild and beautiful and that comes at the price of easy internet access.
Today we are now all undertaking a 100km plus cycle with over 2km of vertical to reach Asco, our base camp for the final stage, the ascent of Mont Cinto.
Daron, Mark, and Karyn heading towards the foot of the big climb to Haut Asco
Tough seas !
A beautiful coast !
Stepping ashore on the pictoresque quay at our landfall at Cargese, we were met by Vanina our local kayak guide. After a few safety instructions the group slipped away from the harbour and headed out to sea in a colourful mix of single and double kayaks.
Everybody soon got into a smooth rythmn on a steady sea under towering limestone buttresses.
The morning passed at a surprising pace threatened through numerous inlets and towering headlands. In the early afternoon Panasha overtook us and prepared a sumptious lunch which awaited us on sandy shores.
Fully replenished the flotilla pushed on to the next headland and into a series of interconnected sea caves - utterly magical and unforgettable.
The crowing glory of the afternoon was the dunking under a 25m waterfall at the mouth of sea cave 1km off the days end.
Kayak practice, with Panasha in the background. (Bullet Cam)
Everybody soon got into a smooth rythmn on a steady sea under towering limestone buttresses.
The morning passed at a surprising pace threatened through numerous inlets and towering headlands. In the early afternoon Panasha overtook us and prepared a sumptious lunch which awaited us on sandy shores.
Fully replenished the flotilla pushed on to the next headland and into a series of interconnected sea caves - utterly magical and unforgettable.
Typical coastal cave. (Bullet Cam)
The crowing glory of the afternoon was the dunking under a 25m waterfall at the mouth of sea cave 1km off the days end.
Beautiful waterfall, note the rainbow! (Bullet Cam)
Open water, glorious ! (Bullet Cam)
Mozzies and dolphins
After 4 hrs sleep/battling mosquitos, everyone was up at 5.30 for a 16 hour crossing to Corsica. Unfortunately only 12 could sail on the catamaran, the rest left for the ferry crossing to meet us 24hrs later.
We set off under sail passing in between the scenic isles of Porquerolles and Port Cros. Everyone enjoyed resting some wearing legs after the gruelling cycle stage.
The highlight on this beautiful crossing was being joined by jumping dolphins at the bow and an incredible sunset over dinner.
Daron and I took the late shift until 4am to help our skipper Laurence into port.
We went back to bed for a few hours sleep before rising to commence the kayak stage.
We set off under sail passing in between the scenic isles of Porquerolles and Port Cros. Everyone enjoyed resting some wearing legs after the gruelling cycle stage.
The highlight on this beautiful crossing was being joined by jumping dolphins at the bow and an incredible sunset over dinner.
Daron and I took the late shift until 4am to help our skipper Laurence into port.
We went back to bed for a few hours sleep before rising to commence the kayak stage.
Panasha's escort !
Monday, June 2. 2008
Ahoy matey's, Anchors Away...
Sunday, June 1. 2008
The Cycling Leg - A Potted Summary
the cycling team riverside
The cycling leg has been absolutely incredible and has exceeded everbody's expectations on many levels. I have been guilty of under-estimating the amount of climbing significantly, ignoring the minor aclivities that all add up and changing the route. It has all turned out for the best and I have just about kept the group together and sane. There were two close moments today though. Firstly after a tougher than planned morning taking the scenic route around the Gorges de Verdon, which tripled the planned distance, we headed into a head wind and at 2pm with no lunch stop the group realised we had 100km to go.
the scenic route
I sensed a near mutiny moment, but happily after a few more km's heading into the wind we were descending and then heading west, munching tarmac greedily. Then about 7pm after 11 hours in the saddle and no end in sight, Richard and Karen are gibbering and laughing uncontrollably. Fortunately the final hour to the coast is a fast blast cruising in at around 50kmph despite a fierce headwind.
Our accomodation also exceeded expectations with each night spent in an idylic gite where we spent quality time eating and relaxing with Juliet supplying incredible food, Fiona incredible massage and Jed incredible music. 3 pairs of magic hands looking after us, all of which helped us get through this tough challenge.
magic hands looking after us
incredible food, or incredibly hungry??
The final stats are:
DAY 1 - Chamonix to Pinet (near Grenoble) - 103 MILES (165km), vertical 2,450m.
DAY 2 - Pinet to Col de Manse (near Gap) - 80 MILES (128km) vertical 2,600m
DAY 3 - Col de Manse to Castellane - 100 Miles (160km), vertical 2,265m
DAY 4 - Castellane to Hyeres, via Gorges de Verdon - 111 miles (177km) vertical 2,000m.
Total - 394 miles (630km) total ascent of 9,315m (more than climbing Mt Everest from Sea Level)
The feedback from all participants was that it was an exceptional and incredibly tough but rewarding challenge. For me the last 2 days of the route exceeded all possible expectations, the sweeping bends tracking the verdon river, passing through tunnels and under rock arches can only be described as Fantasy Cycling, more reminscent of a video game than reality! As I looked at everyone's faces it was clear that they were all thinking the same
fantasy cycling
Friday, May 30. 2008
Let it rain...
Thursday, May 29. 2008
Big Brother follows Mark
Tuesday, May 27. 2008
Rain rain go away....
From mark..... Bonjourno... France, Switzerland and now Italy. Yves, Max, Daron and I set out from La Fouly after a huge breakfast and hiked over the Col de Petit Ferret in strong winds and steady rain to Courmayeur.
Only about 800 meters of ascent but tricky conditions with a lot of snow over the top, steep descents and fast stream crossings.
Wet to the bone and a bit cold but after 25km to near Courmayeur we are enjoying a coffee and planning a big day climbing and skiing back over the top to Chamonix tomorrow.
Raja has been a huge help driving the van and is off to Geneva early to pick up the cyclists for the next stage. Plan B, this tour de Mont Blanc has proved an amazing challenge so far. Spirits are high, just hoping for a break in the weather.
Only about 800 meters of ascent but tricky conditions with a lot of snow over the top, steep descents and fast stream crossings.
Daron finally admitting that GoreTex is a bit more appropriate than cotton in this "dreich" weather, even by Scottish standards !
Wet to the bone and a bit cold but after 25km to near Courmayeur we are enjoying a coffee and planning a big day climbing and skiing back over the top to Chamonix tomorrow.
Wet to the bone... but still smiling! The "Petit Col Ferret" didn't feel so "petit" !
Raja has been a huge help driving the van and is off to Geneva early to pick up the cyclists for the next stage. Plan B, this tour de Mont Blanc has proved an amazing challenge so far. Spirits are high, just hoping for a break in the weather.
Noodles and Tubes
Today was an agonising day, we woke up to heavy rain and strong winds forecasted to continue to wednesday. After much deliberating the team had to accept that summiting Mont Blanc was now an impossible feat, unless the weather miraculously improved. Therefore we decided that if we cannot go to the top of the Mont Blanc we would go around it. After a big logistical reshuffle, Mark, Max and I jumped on our bikes and left Chamonix heading for La Fouly in Switzerland. This was a big cycle with around 2,000m climb and 1,400m descent over 80km, which was fortunately broken by lunch, a huge plate of Phad Thai noodles all round.
Straight afterwards Max and Mark set off like rabbits out of a cage on the climb up to the Col des Montets.
Within a few hundred metres Mark was nursing a puncture.
20km's later Mark was experiencing a string of punctures. "You ate too many Noodles!" reproached Max. After breaking valves and running out of spare tubes the elements appear to be against us, especially after Mark's tyre blows out on a hairpin corner at 50kmph. Somehow Mark avoids becoming human graffiti on the wall he was heading for. Sparks are flying off Mark's cleats as he uses his shoe as an emergency brake.
No more tubes, the nearest bike shop is shut on Mondays and the hypermarket only sells cheap foreign cr*p that does not cut the mustard!
It gets to 6pm, and we have a 1,300m climb and 30km to do against a strong headwind. To rub salt in the wounds it starts to rain. The last two thirds of the climb are beautiful, heading up a beautiful valley. Even the pouring rain does not dampen our spirits. Max who is more used to Lebanon's sunny climate is pushing ahead strongly, motivated by a well ingrained competitive streak and the fact that he is freezing his n*ts off.
Max arrives before us and we find him in the shower still shivering. Great nosh, extra soup all round and lashings of Syrian jokes from Raja.
Tomorrow we pick up the Mont Blanc trail circuit as we head on to Courmeyer by foot, running / trekking over this undulating route. We will be climbing over snowy cols and it should be a beautiful route.
On wednesday if the weather permits we will be on skis going over the mont blanc massif, down the valley blanche and back to chamonix, to sleep, eat and sleep before kicking off the cycle stage with a 160km first day.......
Straight afterwards Max and Mark set off like rabbits out of a cage on the climb up to the Col des Montets.
Max, Daron & Mark: Full of noodles and ready to go !
Within a few hundred metres Mark was nursing a puncture.
Mark's 1st puncture. Daron is still smiling...
Mark's 2nd puncture. Max is still smiling...
Mark's 3rd puncture. Neither Daron nor Max are smiling anymore...
20km's later Mark was experiencing a string of punctures. "You ate too many Noodles!" reproached Max. After breaking valves and running out of spare tubes the elements appear to be against us, especially after Mark's tyre blows out on a hairpin corner at 50kmph. Somehow Mark avoids becoming human graffiti on the wall he was heading for. Sparks are flying off Mark's cleats as he uses his shoe as an emergency brake.
No more tubes, the nearest bike shop is shut on Mondays and the hypermarket only sells cheap foreign cr*p that does not cut the mustard!
It gets to 6pm, and we have a 1,300m climb and 30km to do against a strong headwind. To rub salt in the wounds it starts to rain. The last two thirds of the climb are beautiful, heading up a beautiful valley. Even the pouring rain does not dampen our spirits. Max who is more used to Lebanon's sunny climate is pushing ahead strongly, motivated by a well ingrained competitive streak and the fact that he is freezing his n*ts off.
Cycling up the Col de Forclaz. Beautiful scenery.
Max arriving at La Fouly, and eager to get a hot shower!
Max arrives before us and we find him in the shower still shivering. Great nosh, extra soup all round and lashings of Syrian jokes from Raja.
Mark and Daron entering La Fouly (CH). Wet & cold, but still smiling. Notice the fat tires on Mark's bike. Those proved better at keeping air in !
Tomorrow we pick up the Mont Blanc trail circuit as we head on to Courmeyer by foot, running / trekking over this undulating route. We will be climbing over snowy cols and it should be a beautiful route.
On wednesday if the weather permits we will be on skis going over the mont blanc massif, down the valley blanche and back to chamonix, to sleep, eat and sleep before kicking off the cycle stage with a 160km first day.......
Max bemused by the amount of gear packed in the back of the van. Where is my paraglider in all of this ?!?
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Comments
Mon, 02.06.2008 10:46
Hi Daron Sounds great so far buddy - you are getting some serious training in for the 24 hour MTB race !! Enjoy [...]