"Climb every mountain" sorry Julie Andrews

Monday 30th August is Dads day. As most people reading this would know, I enjoy my cycling and even the occasional spot of racing. From this comes my long held desire to ride some of the famous Cols which have been used for the Tour de France. Well today I have my first chance; hire bike has been arranged, mountain has been selected, camelback filled. Time not only to talk the talk; it’s time to walk the walk. Le Bourg-d’ Oisans is about an hour’s drive from Crolles and the drive is through a valley which is so steep and imposing that it is hard to watch the road even though the threat of a raging river below begs some level of attention. In Le Bourg-d’ Oisans my bike was organized with my pedals fitted and last minute fettling completed. Not long after I was saying bye to my family, one of which I know was hoping that things would go smoothly. Now I know that you are wondering which mountain it will be, well if you might only get one chance it may as well be the most famous mountain stage of the Tour, Alpe-d’Huez. Riding out of town in the icy conditions and looking up at the mountain it’s hard to believe that there are a series of 21 switchbacks clinging to the edge of this mammoth for 14km. Being very out of condition made the climb difficult but the thrill of being on the mountain kept me going not to mention the camaraderie you feel with every other rider who is undertaking the task at the same time whether they be faster or slower, however few appeared to be slower than me. I even rode some of the way with a Dutch couple who were probably amused by my increased difficulty in speaking with each additional switchback we rounded. In the end it’s difficult to convey the sense of satisfaction and achievement felt when riding a mountain which non-riders would feel you are stupid for attempting, however when you are in sight of the finish with nothing left in the tank and self doubt filling your mind, they will never share the same feeling of overcoming an obstacle “because it is there”, to borrow some famous words. Needless to say I made the finish and had a coffee or two with the Dutch couple I had met earlier, before making the 14 minute dive for the valley floor. All this time Judy and the boys had been enjoying local pizza and exploring the town, Harrison had a great time in the park however found that see saws can be unforgiving when you try to rest on them. Oh well nothing bruised but his ego. As big days go this has been a personal milestone. Don’t laugh too hard at the videos! (yes I know I have grease on my chin)
http://s652.photobucket.com/albums/uu243/fordcammer/Alpe%20d%20Huez%202010/