Etape June 14 2012

It was a slightly dull day weather wise but the sight of 10,000 amateur cyclists slogging their way up to Bareges was inspiring. Even more so, when you consider they had already done 108km by the time they reached us and were about to do a sharp 1000m ascent over the Col du Tourmalet, then another 80kmto the finish.

First, the serious amateurs whizzed through. Then slowly but surely the others came up. Some looked pained, some were smiling and waving at the crowds, some even had time to slap the hands that the local children were offering and a brave one or two were responding to the children’s shouts of “Monsieur, monsieur, d’ou venez vous?” (Mr, Mr, where are you from?) with the name of their country or town. We saw a couple on a tandem, a rather glamorous lady wearing lipstick and makeup (how?!), people on fold up bikes and even people on mountain-bike…ouch!

Please see our video below of the crowd singing to the cyclists as they slogged it up through Bareges.

Team MountainBug stationed itself on the Hotel du Tourmalet outdoor terrace to watch while eating a delicious lunchtime BBQ menu. It did feel a bit mean but…! We did our bit for King and country, keeping an eye out for fellow Brits, cheering them on. Our best spot was one chap wearing a top saying Atkins “Atkins! That’s English” we shouted “Too bloody right!” he yelled back grinning.

Much to our amusement, two gendarmes (police) on motorbikes pulled up by the hotel, parked…and then headed over for some BBQ. The hotel’s sous chef, Karen, bagged a sit on a bike and a photo!

Well done to everyone who took part in that monster race. Whether you finished or not, it is an amazing thing for amateurs to do and we admire you for it. Also, a big thank you, as our appetites are truly whetted for the Tour de France Stage 16, passing through here Wednesday afternoon.

The 2012 Tour de France etape (amateur stage) coming through Bareges

The etape down in Luz, on its way up to Bareges

Prime viewing spot on the Hotel du Tourmalet’s terrace, Bareges

On fold-up bikes!

The hotel’s sous chef enjoying a well-earned break!