It seemed mad at the time and it still does now but five stages of the Tour de France 2012 route at the end of June 2012 is the challenge ahead!
I’m cycling with others one week ahead of the actual
Tour de France to raise money and support for the
William Wates Memorial Trust
Tour de France to raise money and support for the
William Wates Memorial Trust
I’d love it if you felt able to support and sponsor me at
This is what lies in store for us…
Stages: 7, 8, 9, 10, 11 (Metz - La Toussuire)
This is where the route hits what are called the ‘middle mountains’ and then into the real Alpine stages at the end of the week. These stages contain many climbs featuring in the Tour for the first time.
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The final climb of stage 7, the intriguingly named Planche de Belles Filles, is definitely steep!
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Stage 8 is all about the Jura region, firstly the French, then the Swiss part. This means lots of hills, endless forests, stunning views and no cars but 154km will be enough for us all!
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Then the Time Trial route to Besancon: 38 km to reflect on the two stages just conquered and to loosen up legs that are likely to be rather stiff. But you could race it…
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Then its onto stages 10 and 11...
Although the Pyrenees take their turn to be the ‘stars’ of Le Tour, these two alpine stages could well prove decisive when the pro’s tackle them.
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Stage 10 starts gently until, at km 90, we hit the Cote de Corlier, taking us up onto a bumpy plateau and then plunging down to the foot of the formidable Col de Grand Colombier.
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11 is the stage of the first Etape du Tour and an absolute scorcher! With the Glandon, Croix de Fer and La Toussuire to finish, it is just as well that this stage is ‘only’ 140km long!
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The William Wates Memorial Trust was set up in 1998 to help disadvantaged young people fulfil their potential, and stay away from a life of crime, using the mediums of sports, arts and education. The Trust exists to celebrate the life of William Wates (1977- 1996) who was tragically killed when travelling in South America. His family set up the trust to shine some light into the lives of young people who have not had the advantages that Will enjoyed. Since 1998 the Trust has donated just over £1M and helped over 8,000 disadvantaged young people fulfil their potential. Please have a look at the website www.wwmt.org to find out more about the amazing charities that have been supported.
