VeloNomad Reader Trip Reports #3 – Sean M, Australia

Hey Tim,
here a few pics from the Etape.

I was stuck in the back, pen 11.
Pretty cold by the time we moved after 8.
Stuck mostly to plan – went very easy up Telegraphe, not even breathing heavy, and still passing more than passed.
1st half of Galibier also took it easy – eating and chatting on the lower section.
2nd half I went for it a bit when it got steep and passed loads – maybe a bit too hard, made it to top easy enough though.
Honestly didn't think Galibier was hard at all. Was a bit annoyed I had carried so much gear to stay warm – it wasn't really needed on the day.
All went fine till 80k and there was that big accident which held us up for 30 mins.
Arrived at Alpe D'Huez feeling very hot (all the standing around in 35 degree heat wasn't good).
Did OK on first half but really struggled up the second half, was begging for the end, thankfully the locals were pouring water over us so I didn't have to stop.
Managed to beat Sheryl Crow's time so wasn't totally embarrassing, and I did still pass quite a few in worse shape and managed to sprint most of the last k.
Felt absolutely shattered at the end.
Cycling time on my Garmin was just over 6 hours, my official time is 6:35.
Not bad for my first attempt (and only really starting cycling properly a year ago).
Totally missed the fact that there was food/drink voucher for top, was really thirsty and no water in the shops.
Had to do with beer (!) and wait till we drove back down to eat and drink.
Glad to have my GF at the top to drive me back to our place over the Croix de Fer – dunno how you could cycle after all that!!

Defo going to be back next year.

Cheers for all the posts,
Sean.