Two Wheeled Adventures Across The Alps

It was billed as the trip of a lifetime. A quick dash over to Europe for 5 days of intense cycling through the French Alps. Something to break up the year and re-energise the batteries while raising money for cancer research. What we did not know was that nothing could prepare us for the challenges we were about to face and that the support of those around us would inevitably see us over the line.

The group behind the expedition were called Smiling For Smiddy*. A fantastic bunch of people committed to pushing the boundaries of physical exertion all in aid of raising much needed funds for charity. For 5 consecutive days our group of 16 riders were to average 144 kms each day throughout the French countryside racing to the foot of some of the most challenging climbs the Tour De France has ever seen. I personally trained for over 5 months in preparation for this event, limiting my intake of alcohol to levels deemed very un-Australian!

As luck would have it the onset of flu at the start of the ride added an extra element of difficulty I now had to now manage. Having woken with fear and sweat in the early hours of the first morning I vowed to take it just one day at a time knowing there were more serious challenges faced by others everyday. As each Col was conquered and another mountain descended I was nicknamed “Perpetual Motion” or “The Train Without a Station” for the sheer determination to never give up on any climb. It was these lighthearted moments that remind us all not to take life too seriously. That we’re here for a good time and not necessarily a long time.

The famed Alpe d’Huez on Day 3 provided a milestone for every rider to reach with 21 switchbacks (hairpin bends) from the bottom to the top with each one named after previous stage winners. Celebrations were rife (double scotch’s on ice) as we spent the night at the top of the mountain in one of the out of season ski resorts. With now only 2 days to go an end was in sight. However the 4th day would prove to be the most challenging ride for everyone involved, including triathletes, Iron Man competitors and Group A riders, of which I was none. To be continued…

The 2013 French Alps Smiddy Challenge was proudly supported by Bondi Bikes 230 Oxford Street Bondi Junction with full bike service, tyres, brakes, helmet and glasses generously donated to Eastside Radio.

Tax deductible donations over $2 can still be made to the foundation by clicking on the following link: Thank You For Your Support

* Smiling for Smiddy commemorates the life of keen cyclist Adam Smiddy who passed away in August 2006 aged 26 after a short battle against an aggressive cancer. Each year hundreds of cyclists and triathletes unite through Smiddy events to make their mark against cancer. More than $3 million has been raised for research since 2006. Our events inspire individuals to combine a passion for cycling and triathlon with a desire to fight cancer. Beneficiaries of Smiling for Smiddy  fundraising include Mater Foundation, PA Research Foundation, Melanoma Patients Australia and Flinders Medical Centre Foundation. The French Alps Challenge has raised funds to support research into melanoma, breast, ovarian and prostate cancers. Our participation in this tour has meant a significant contribution to the work of researchers as they undertake potentially life-saving research into the causes, prevention and improved treatments of cancer.