Yes, I rode up Mont Ventoux.
In a car.
I am not Andy Schleck or Lance Armstrong. Plus, it’s been incredibly hot in the south of France. Riding up the famed Mont Ventoux is for people a lot fitter (or more insane) than me. And there they were, steadily climbing, their legs pumping in a well-timed rhythm to the very top.
Words of encouragement from the 2009 Tour de France
I envied them and their fit bodies and their determination.
I’m sure they envied me and my air-conditioned car.
But we share the same goal: get to the top of Mont Ventoux. And I’ve been dreaming of this for years. From afar, this Giant of Provence, appears perpetually snow-capped, but it’s not. Given the wind (le mistral) that literally whips through Provence this is no surprise.
I wanted to shout words of encouragement or wave hello.
The drive up was amazing, all twists and turns. The road is marked with words of encouragement to riders from recent tours de France plus those to amateur riders from family or friends. I imagine it must be as good as, if not better than, seeing your name in lights!
View from the top of Mont Ventoux
And when you get to the top, be it by two wheels or four, you’re greeted by one of the best views in Provence. The lush, green vegetation below in stark contrast to the barren nothingness at the top.
The best thing, however, was overhearing some of the conversations held by these amateur riders. Be they Dutch, English, or French, the sense of success was tangible. Maybe next time I’ll ride up Mont Ventoux. Maybe.
One last look on the way down
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