Alp D'Huez

Well the day finally arrived, the famous Alp d'Huez climb.  All the weeks of our overseas cycling was in preparation of finishing with this climb.  And it did not disappoint. In fact, I loved it.  Butterflies in the stomach as I ate my breakfast and set off in lovely sunshine.  

At 13.2km in length, not too long so perfect for me, give me confidence knowing I won't fade and shrivel as energy drains like water down a drain, on those long 20km or so climbs.

The first section, 1 to 3 kilometres are hard, long straight roads that head upwards.  13% kilometre average markers remind me to take it easy, don't push too hard.  I don't look up ahead, that creates negative thoughts, but just focus, following close to Davids wheel.  It eases off a little after 3km, down to 8% then continues just about every kilometre at 9% averages.   

We happen to coincide our ride today, with the annual running of the Alp d'Huez event, in support of current and past French serviceman.  So there was lots of runners, all shapes and ages supported by medical and armed services on the majority of the 21 switchbacks.  That was kinda cool, you weren't alone in your suffering and riding past groups of runners, albeit slowing gives you a little confidence kick.

Towards the top the climb eases to 5% then you see the 1km to go banner, through a tunnel then you hit a 11% steep pitch, but I have ample energy and power though, passing gentlemen struggling on this last section before it flattens out.  Im so happy, I feel great, just go as hard as I can, finishing through the event banner.  


It's a bit of a disappointment at the top, there's no amazing banner I can stand beside to take a photo.  Shame really, with all the cyclists around the world that come here to ride the famous bends, not have a permanent banner. And, the real climb is definitely harder than the indoor Zwift platform. 

David assess's my power numbers and tells me, my ride today matched my 90 minute all time power, so that was nice to know, after 8 years of cycling and 8 years older, I haven't lost any strength, that's cool :)


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