That is a direct quote from my dad today!! They biked the Aple d'Huez today woowee! Average 9% grade, some parts 12% for a total of 7,500 feet of climbing. Geez and I was tired on the Granby ride tonight (I mean come one we had to atleast do what 500ft!?!)
So they started out the day today - 45 degrees - and the first 5 miles were downhill, chilly way to start! I am sure once they hit that 12% grade they were wishing for that downhill! Paul's bike is okay, but has confessed that he does miss his bikes at home. (This was in response to my moms "I miss you"....dad replied "I miss my bikes"....hmm) So Paul is in the middle of the group in cycling strength. They ended up riding 60 miles, some guys couldn't make it the whole way and rode in the van. There were also a few that went a bit further. The last two miles were extremly grueling!!
Lots of switchbacks, but Paul is feeling more comfortable going down despite the Shimano breaks he does not really trust!!
Also on good news the food is great - lots of bread and cheese! YUM!
There are 15 guys in the group divded into two groups. One guy had his passport stolen and hasn't made it there yet!!! Paul is one of the oldest and most of the other guys are doctors (where do they find the time to cycle is what I am thinking!)
Interesting fact - gasoline is 7$ a galloon - WOW!!!
Tomorrow is the Col de Galibier - one of the highest parts of the Alps! They start off the morning with Galibier then descend down to Valloire only to climb up the Telegraphe (av grade 6.5% max at 12+). The day is category 1 and HC - aka the hardest and second hardest categories all day wowee. They are planning on riding 4-5 hours, but this changes according to where spectators are. They will drive to stay in a like side hotel in Duingt tomorrow night.
I'll update again tomorrow!
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