Ventoux

[Michael Giudici]

Today was Mt. Ventoux day. Having done it this time of year 2 years ago, there was trepidation. First of all, I'd been doing a lot of climbing and long rides all week, so the question was whether I'd be wiped out, or get better, like a stage racer.   The answer was in between. It was hot but NOT WINDY!!!!! That's a big deal on that climb. Last time it was so windy that people just got knocked over. Going up from Bedoin, once the climb starts it's 9-13% grade until Chalet Reynard. There aren't switchbacks to give you a break....just relentless climbing. At Chalet Reynard, you turn left onto the moonscape and go up at 8% for the last 6 kilometers. I did it right at 2 hours without stopping. I assume the pros do it in about 40 min.   Our trips leaders gave me this sweet return route. I went down the mountain going east to Sault. It's 5K farther from Chalet Reynard and a gentler grade of 4-5%. From Sault, I went through the Gorges de la Nesque, which is a mini Grand Canyon. I was on D 942 on the north wall which started with a climb for a few K and then a gentle 16 km downhill along a cliff. Sweet!   Climbing up Ventoux was 5180 ft in 13.2 miles. Total for the day was 52.4 miles and 5785 ft of climbing. Time for a beer!   Mike Giudici

[Brian McInnis]

Sounds like a great ride! I hope you have a fantastic remainder of your trip.

Brian McInnis

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Brian McInnis, Ph.D.
Assistant Professor of German
University of Northern Iowa
319-273-2043
mcin...@gmail.com