Haute Route 2014 Official Guide by OC Sport

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

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SUMMER 2015 DOLOMITES SWISS ALPS • ALPS • PYRENEES 7 DAYS • 7 TIMED STAGES • 20,000M+ • LEGENDARY COLS

EVERYTHING YOU COULD WANT FROM CYCLING IN ONE INCREDIBLE EVENT TAKE ON THE RIDE OF YOUR LIFE BOOK NOW OR REGISTER YOUR INTEREST: WWW.HAUTEROUTE.ORG

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

GREG LEMOND WINNER OF THE TOUR DE FRANCE 1986,1989, 1990 I was really excited to be a part of the Haute Route in 2013 as I think these are events that are the future of cycling. I know that everybody’s looking forward to suffering over every mountain! I will be thinking about you and want to make sure everyone has a great ride and a safe ride. The Haute Route is one of few events where you’ll really get experience of what I got to do during the Tour de France. It allows riders to experience a pro-like multi-stage event, which very few people get the chance to do. For me, it is getting back to the passion of cycling. In the professional world or in amateur sport, cycling remains my priority. It’s a passion I share with the riders engaged on the Haute Route, to whom I wish lots of courage and pleasure!

GREG LEMOND CAMPEÓN DEL TOUR DE FRANCIA 1986, 1989, 1990

GREG LEMOND LEMOND VINCITORE DE LA TOUR DE FRANCE 1986,1989,1990

Estaba realmente ilusionado de formar parte de la Haute Route en 2013, ya que creo que en eventos como este se encuentra el futuro del ciclismo. Se que todo el mundo busca el sufrimiento de cada montaña! Estaré pensando en ti y me aseguraré de que todos tengan una segura y placentera vuelta.

Io sono stato molto emozionato a partecipare a ‘Haute Route in 2013’ penso che queste gare sono il futuro del ciclismo. Tutti sono intusiiasmati di salire le montagne con molta sofferenza!

La Haute Roete es uno de los pocos eventos en el que experimentas por lo que paso durante el Tour de Francia. Permite al ciclista experimentar un situación profesional de multi-nivel de las que muy poca gente tiene la oportunidad de realizar. Para mi, es volver a la pasión del ciclismo. Ya sea en el mundo profesional o en el amateur del deporte, el ciclismo sigue siendo mi prioridad. Es una pasión que comparto con los corredores participantes en la Haute Route, y a quienes deseo todo el placer y todo el coraje necesario.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Penso a voi ciclisti,di fare una bella gara sensa complicazioni. Haute Route un evento per fare esperienza, cosa ottenuto per il Tour di Francia Questa esperienza che pochi anno la fortuna di partecipare e da professionisti di ogni disciplina Per me e la passione di ritornare al ciclismo. Nel Mondo profesionale o dilettanti sportivi, la mia passione rimane il ciclismo con il quale condivido Haute Route con passione.

GREG LEMOND TOUR-DE-FRANCE-SIEGER 1986, 1989, 1990

GREG LEMOND VAINQUEUR DU TOUR DE FRANCE 1986, 1989, 1990

Ich habe mich riesig gefreut bei der Haute Route 2013 dabei zu sein, denn für mich sind solche Veranstaltungen die Zukunft des Radsports. Ich weiß, dass sich alle darauf freuen, an jedem Berg zu leiden! Ich werde an euch denken und möchte dafür sorgen, dass jeder von euch eine schöne und sichere Tour hat. Die Haute Route ist eine der wenigen Events, bei dem man wirklich einen Eindruck davon bekommen kann, was ich bei der Tour de France tuen musste. Fahrer können ein profi-artiges Etappenrennen erleben, eine Möglichkeit, die nur sehr wenige Menschen haben. Für mich führt das zurück auf die Leidenschaft des Radfahrens.

J’ai pris énormément de plaisir à participer à la Haute Route en 2013, et je pense que cet événement représente le futur du cyclisme. A l'approche des éditions 2014, je sais que, de nouveau, des coureurs du monde entier sont prêts à souffrir dans ces montagnes de légende ! Je penserai bien à chacun d'entre eux, et je vous souhaite une magnifique course en toute sécurité. La Haute Route est un des rares événements qui permettent de vivre ce que j’ai pu vivre lors du Tour de France, de vivre une expérience proche de celle des professionnels sur un événement à étapes, chose que très peu de gens ont la chance de vivre. C’est pour moi un vrai retour à ma passion du cyclisme.

Sowohl im Berufsleben als auch als Freizeitsport bleibt Radfahren für mich höchste Priorität. Es ist eine Leidenschaft, die ich mit den Teilnehmern der “Haute Route” teile, denen ich hiermit viel Mut und Spaß wünsche! .

Dans le monde professionnel ou dans le monde amateur, le vélo reste ma priorité. C’est une passion que je partage avec les coureurs engagés sur la Haute Route, auxquels je souhaite un maximum de courage et de plaisir !

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

OFFICIAL PARTNERS

OFFICIAL SUPPLIERS C R A N K U P T H E P O W ER

HAUTE ROUTE DOLOMITES SWISS ALPS - HOST VENUES

HAUTE ROUTE ALPS - HOST VENUES

HAUTE ROUTE PYRENEES - HOST VENUES

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

CONTENTS

What is the Haute Route?

A sporting and personal challenge of epic proportions

FOLLOW THE HAUTE ROUTE

Interview

Official website: http://www.hauteroute.org/ YouTube: https://www.youtube.com/user/hauteroutetv Twitter: https://twitter.com/Haute_Route Facebook: https://www.facebook.com/ CyclingHauteRoute

Magnificent Seven

CONTACT INFORMATION MEDIA

E: media@hauteroute.org T: +41 (0) 22 5548 1028 (Swiss office) T: +44 (0) 1983 282 797 (UK office)

Rémi Duchemin, CEO of OC Sport, on new developments and growing success Only 7 riders have competed in every Haute Route since its inception

Living the High Life

Four riders tell their very different personal Haute Route experiences

Media can access the Digital Media Exchange to download a wide selection of Haute Route images and graphics. All images are copyright free for editorial use. Register at http://oct.dme.boxstuff.net/ or click on the Media link of the Haute Route official website http://www.hauteroute.org

Meet our Roaming Ambassadors

The Haute Route is More than Just a Cycling Event

Star Attraction

Making an Impact

The Daily Routine of an Haute Route Rider

Cover photo by Manu Molle Design by Jon Line James Geoghegan Tristan Stubbings Edited by Karren May Printed by Linney Quadrant

Taking Care of Mind and Body

Race Organisation

All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced in any form or by any electronic or mechanical means, including information storage and retrieval systems, without permission from OC Sport and the photographers.

Everyone’s A Winner

Haute Route Dolomoites Swiss Alps

Haute Route Alps

Haute Route Pyrenees

17 riders have been chosen to form Team Haute Route

Alain Lambert on friendships and new adventures around the globe Meet the sporting stars who have taken on the Haute Route Team Type 1 Foundation - the Haute Route 2014 Official Charity

Advice from Haute Route Coaching Partner Alpine Cols Top tips from Team Haute Route Ambassador and Doctor, Hiroshi Franchi The pro team behind the ultimate cycling challenge Timings and rankings explained The course and route detail including maps and profiles

The course and route detail including maps and profiles The course and route detail including maps and profiles

Official Guide published by OC Sport A global sports marketing company specialising in professional sailing and outdoor sports events; creator and organiser of the Haute Route. In 2014 OC Sport’s international team will be involved in more than 200 days of events and competition across 36 events in 15 countries on 4 continents. http://www.ocsport.com

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

WHAT IS THE HAUTE ROUTE? Hundreds of riders every year from all over the world head to Europe to take part in the Haute Route events, and take on the most mythical cols of the French Alps, Pyrenees, Dolomites and Swiss Alps. The attraction of these legendary cols, such as the Ventoux, Alpe d’Huez, Tourmalet and Stelvio cannot be underestimated, but beyond the sporting challenge is another story, a human story that for many is life changing…

What is the Haute Route exactly? The basic facts can be easily stated - the Haute Route cycling events are the highest and toughest cyclosportives in the world for amateur riders, prestigious and professionally run seven-day road races, timed and ranked, across Europe’s iconic cols. The three Haute Route events in 2014 each cover over 800+ km, climb more than 20,000 vertical metres, and traverse the greatest cycling terrain in the world. But these basic facts do not portray the sheer magnitude of the challenge, the overwhelming beauty of the landscapes, nor the multi-faceted human story of the riders themselves that demonstrate sport really does have the power to change each of us. The Haute Route events push the boundaries of human endurance to the edge and in doing so create a very special atmosphere: “We suffer the same way, we have the same pains,” explains Laetitia Roux, ten-time Ski Mountaineering World Champion. “We get to know each other and I believe that the motivation is the same whether for men or for women – you want to give

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

your best to achieve the best, but it's also the friendly atmosphere. Once you've experienced that you want to live it again. For a week it’s like you’re in a bubble, away from the real world and the everyday worries. You just have to pedal.” As Stacie Hall from Australia put it: “This is not about being a super athlete, this is about heart. You just need determination.” The Haute Route peloton is home to many different nationalities with many of the riders crossing oceans to arrive in Europe’s legendary mountains, and the spectrum of ability and experience is vast as Robert Armstrong from Canada explains: “It’s an honour to ride with all of these guys – we don’t know each other, we’re from different countries, we all pull together and it just makes it really, really special.” Riders compete as individuals but also have to be part of a team consisting of at least three and a big motivation is to tick all the bucket list climbs and to ride the same roads as their heroes: “These places are branded in cycling history,”

said Grant Roe from New South Wales, Australia who competed in the 2012 Haute Route Alps and last year’s inaugural Haute Route Pyrenees. “You see the names of roads, think of the cyclists who have come through before and you can imagine what it’s like for the guys on the Grand Tours. It gives us an insight into what they experience and makes us appreciate what they do.” Speaking of cycling heroes, the Haute Route has produced some of its own very special heroes. Not least French cyclist Christian Haettich who lost an arm and a leg in a road accident aged 15. At 35 he took up cycling and it became his passion: “For me cycling is a school of life and I love that. I love riding and I love the mountains – it allows me to put my handicap forward. That’s it.” Haettich completed both the Haute Route Alps and Pyrenees in 2013, and this year is, even more impressively, going for the ‘Triple Crown’ – all three Haute Route events back to back.

To finish all seven days of a single Haute Route event is a major achievement for all the riders and to complete two, and receive the accolade of an ‘Iron Rider’, is outstanding. Now in 2014 with the introduction of the new Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps, the challenge exists to take on all three Haute Route Events in a row and Cycling Plus journalist John Whitney declared: “ It will without question make it the toughest mass participation series in the amateur road cycling world.” So far eleven intrepid riders will be taking on the Triple Crown this year. With professional level event organisation including medical teams, mechanical support, rolling road security, film crews and, of course, massages, the riders are 100% immersed in the world of cycling and for a short time get to experience what it’s like riding as a pro. Christoph Pleitgen, an Haute Route ambassador who has competed in an event each year since the Haute Route began in 2011 explains: “This is probably as close as any of us ‘office’ riders will ever get to feeling like professional riders.” Wim Geberbauer, at 19, the youngest rider on the Haute Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Route Alps last year, found an analogy was required to really quantify what the Haute Route events are about: “The way I describe it to my friends is a mini Tour de France. It’s the only way I can get it across to them what kind of challenge it would be. I’ve done organised events before but this is on the next level. Every day sleeping in a different place, your luggage is getting moved for you and you’ve got help along the way - it’s just amazing to be honest.”

something Haute Route riders do best in the moment, but they also understand the legacy of taking on the Haute Route: “You can’t put a price on the memories it leaves. I’ll be talking about this for a long time,” said Tim Hopkin who came over from North Carolina, USA, to take on the Pyrenees last year.

Rookie or expert, the riders tackle the highest, steepest, most world-renowned cycling terrain, and it’s a leveling experience: “Whatever level you ride the Haute Route at, my advice would be the same: never give up,” said Dave Moran from Edinburgh. “If you feel like you’re about to explode, remember everyone else is feeling the same way.” Pushing themselves to their physical and mental limits is

So you see the Haute Route is much more than just a cycling event. Everyone has their own personal reason for doing the Haute Route. It can be life changing for many, it allows those with physical and personal challenges to prove that anything can be done if you put your mind to it; and only those riders who do it, fully understand what it means as Canadian Robert Armstrong summed up: “If the world could bottle some of this positive energy, we wouldn’t have the problems we have…”

Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 16th – 22nd August (Venice to Geneva)

Haute Route Compact 24th - 26th August (Alps Prologue and Stages 1 & 2)

Haute Route Alps 24th – 30th August (Geneva to Nice)

Haute Route Pyrenees 1st – 7th September (Barcelona to Anglet Basque Coast)

500

INTERNATIONAL PRESS ARTICLES following the haute route 2013

COUNTRIES CROSSED Italy, Switzerland, France and Spain

800

VOLUNTEER MARSHALS ON EACH HAUTE ROUTE

PAGE VIEWS on www.hauteroute.org in the last 12 months

HOST VENUES welcoming riders on each Haute Route

DIFFERENT EVENTS Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps Haute Route Alps Haute Route Pyrenees Haute Route Compact

800+

KILOMETRES TO CYCLE ON EACH HAUTE ROUTE

IRON RIDERS competing in two events

AMATEUR CYCLISTS on the three Haute Route events

MILLION

TIMED STAGES OVER CONSECUTIVE DAYS

1,100 RIDERS MAXIMUM PER TEAM (3 minimum)

1.52

20,000

METRES OF CUMULATIVE ALTITUDE GAIN IN ONE WEEK – more than twice the distance from sea level to the summit of Everest

ASSISTANCE AND SAFETY VEHICLES

DIFFERENT NATIONALITIES on the three Haute Route events

LEGENDARY CYCLING CLIMBS on each Haute Route

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

MASSAGE THERAPISTS EVERY DAY

FULLY TIMED PROLOGUE along Lake Geneva at the start of the Haute Route Alps

TRIPLE CROWN RIDERS taking on the three Haute Route events back to back

AX-LES-THERMES C’EST AUSSI DU CYCLOTOURISME !

RCS Toulouse B 387 987 811

Crédit photo : GettyImages

Etape pyrénéenne du Tour de France, arrivées de la Route du Sud…

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Rémi Duchemin - CEO, OC Sport

What are the key new developments for the Haute Route 2014? The Haute Route events are based around the key principle of the ‘Highest and Toughest Cyclosportives in the World’. Aimed at amateur riders coming from all continents, each integrates the same essential elements: a peloton of up to 500 riders, 7 consecutive days, 7 timed stages, the greatest cycling terrain in the world – all against the clock. The big new addition for 2014 is the first Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps which will kick-start the series of events from mid-August to the first week of September. We introduced the Haute Route Pyrenees last year and it was always our intention to develop a Dolomites Swiss Alps version so that riders – past, present and new – could choose between the iconic mountain ranges in Italy, Switzerland, France and Spain. With this new event comes a whole new level of challenge, as some riders will take on the Triple Crown – all three events; another group will be Iron Riders – completing two events, whilst the majority of riders choose just one event that appeals to them most. We have also introduced the Haute Route Compact – a three-day event that will run concurrently at the start of the Haute Route Alps with a fully timed prologue and two real stages, which will allow riders to ‘test’ the event before committing to a full event in the future.

How would you explain the growing success of this style of multi-day cyclosportive?

Now in its fourth year, what can we expect to be even better on this Haute Route?

OC Sport, as well as creating and organising the Haute Route, is behind many other events around the world. What is your ethos as an organiser?

Our focus as organisers is on perfecting the details, making sure all our participants have the best possible experience and ensuring they get as close as it’s possible for an amateur to ‘ride like a pro’. Offering professional level event organisation – road-side medical and mechanical support, post event massages, safety briefings, quality nutrition and accommodation, professional photography, timing services and media support, we pride ourselves on running prestigious and exclusive events. Each of our riders is considered a VIP athlete and should have nothing to do or worry about other than riding their bike to the best of their ability, and resting! Now in our fourth year, we’ve had the opportunity to really listen to the feedback and analyse all the details to make sure this year’s events are seamless!

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Road cycling is booming all over the world. For many years, cycling has been one of the main sports in continental Europe, and now a new generation of riders is coming through. In the UK, following the 2007 Tour de France Grand Depart, the 2012 Olympics and the phenomenal success of British pro teams, cycling has become ‘cool’ and Wiggo a household name. New countries – Australia, South Africa, Brazil – now host cycling events that attract thousands of riders. In African nations, endurance athletes are turning their skills to cycling. The concept of a multi-day cyclosportive has universal appeal. It’s the stuff of boyhood dreams, the stuff of legends - the most iconic cycling cols in the world! In taking part in the Haute Route, amateur riders will actually experience what they watch their cycling heroes do. Humans have an inherent need to test themselves, to push boundaries, to find limits. Sharing a challenge with other like-minded people, setting a goal and achieving it - these are fundamental human traits. The Haute Route is a must do, ‘top of the bucket list’ event for cyclists the world over!

The fundamental similarities between OC Sport’s events are the words ‘challenge’, ‘premium’ and ‘innovation’. All our events share the same level of professional organisation and attention to detail. Participants and spectators will recognize an OC Sport event by the calibre of the team and the quality of the service. But our company ethos is more about pushing boundaries! In the Extreme Sailing Series, for example, we changed the way sailing is seen by making it a stadium event that is easy for the public to watch. With Dongfeng Race Team, we are attempting to introduce and develop offshore sailing in China, starting pretty much from scratch. In the Haute Route, we’re not just cycling, we’re pushing limits to make our events different from others. We’re constantly innovating and exploring new territories.

Mark Turner - Executive Chairman, OC Sport

Sometimes riding the Haute Route does feel a bit like being in the Western film of the same name. Certainly on some days it’s a personal battle over mind and body for survival – a gunfight with yourself. There are seven of us that have done every single Haute Route since its inception in 2011, and I was proud to stand on the stage with the other six last September in Biarritz after completing the inaugural Pyrenees edition – my fourth Haute Route. We seven come from different backgrounds and are all different levels, but we are united by the one fact – that we have made every finish line on every day of four epic mountain range traverses. We’ve all dragged ourselves up col after col, on the ‘bad’ days, just longing for that finish line to appear. But we’ve all experienced the great feeling of achievement at the end – the adrenalin fuelled pleasure of a ‘good’ day when the legs seem to go in a robot like mode and you feel like you could go on for ever (it doesn’t usually last long though), the bonds formed with riders from different countries that you have got to know by the look of their bike, the colour of their favourite kit, or their nickname written on their dossard as you’ve ground your way along behind them up a tough climb.

even the pros do on ‘le Tour’.

Many of the riders have touted the Haute Route as a lifechanging experience, and a majority as a top three experience of their life. For me, I never imagined doing it more than once when I took on the first Haute Route Alps in 2011. Tick the box, move on. But each Spring I’ve found myself compelled to commit once again to this beast of an event.

For 2014, I’ll take on the mighty Dolomites, because...well because they are there...but sadly will slip from this very special group who have done every Haute Route since it started. I just can’t make the time to either train for or go on to compete in the Alps and Pyrenees - an unreal, three in a row ‘Triple Crown’ challenge. I am already feeling jealous of those who will manage it – the feeling in the months after will be truly priceless. Long live the Haute Route!

In the first year, the fear of the unknown (multistage, seven day long mountain timed and ranked cyclosportives simply didn’t exist in this form before the Haute Route) was overwhelming. I would wake up with the saw-tooth like profiles of the course etched in my mind. Like most Haute Route riders, I had only ever done one day events, and woken up the next day after a lie-in feeling very sore, but on the Haute Route, you have to get up early again on day two and do it all over again, and then again (probably an even bigger Marathon day), and again, and again – more mountain stages in a row than

Then in 2013, instead of finishing in Nice after the Alps version, I chose to take on the Iron Rider challenge and, just a week later, conquer the Pyrenees. My intense four month training approach rather than a more reasonable year-round one, cost me – a seriously painful tendonitis on the knee – and made that second week a true mind over pain challenge just to get to the finish, but at the end of 40,000+ metres of climbing over 38 giant cols, the sense of achievement was great. Of course it was all put in perspective when I shared the stage in Biarritz with Christian Haettich who did all that with just one arm and one leg. Humbling. I cannot imagine the struggle it is for him.

Last year’s Iron Riders – 36 This year’s Iron Riders – 22 (to date) Last year’s Iron Riders who are Iron Rider’s again this year – 3 This year’s Triple Crown Riders – 11 (to date) Riders who have done every event to date – 7 Riders who have done every event and are Triple Crown riders this year – 4

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

LIVING THE HIGH LIFE

The Haute Route is a daunting week-long event open to amateur riders. Read four very different first-hand accounts from last year's Pyrenean adventure. By John Whitney, Cycling Plus magazine Following two years of brilliant events in the Alps, Haute Route organiser OC Sport picked up the same concept – seven days, seven timed stages, 800+ km and 20 categorised climbs over a major mountain range – and ran with it to the Pyrenees. It proved to be an equal to its Alpine counterpart, with a route from Barcelona to Anglet on the French Basque coast via legendary climbs like the Tourmalet, Hautacam and Superbagnères, thanks to first-rate organisation combined with a region that is tougher, wilder, more beautiful and more unpredictable than it’s Alpine counterpart. The Haute Route is being expanded even further this year with the Dolomites Swiss Alps event, creating a tantalising ‘Triple Crown’ that will without question make it the toughest mass participation series in the amateur road cycling world. Here are the first-hand accounts of four riders from last September’s Pyrenean adventure.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Name: Nuno Luz Age: 51 Nationality: Portuguese Lives: Lisbon Occupation: Journalist and author Finishing position: 206 Time: 27h 42m (7h 51m behind winner) I rode both Haute Route events last year, back to back. Which did I prefer? Unquestionably, it was the Pyrenees. It’s just a better mountain range to ride. The Alps is like a shiny new house with a pristine lawn, the Pyrenees is a much older, lived in, rustic home, savage and wild. The mountains are rougher, the roads more worn. Animals cross the roads and shepherds go about their business. You feel further away from civilisation. The host towns are more real, too. In the Alps event you finish each stage in ski resorts, which during the summer resemble ghost towns. With the Pyrenees you go to real, working places. The event also suited me more. There were fewer competitors, 300 compared with 500, so it felt more intimate. As a competitor in both races this summer, the Haute Route dubbed me an ‘Iron Rider’. It might seem a daunting idea on paper – 1600km over 14 days – but I

knew I was capable. Last year I did two races back-toback, the Transpyr and Transalp, which are similar but off-road. Those are more physically demanding with more time spent in the saddle each day, tiring your whole body. That said, I have a strict rule for my endurance events: never go too deep. For example, my heart rate never got above 150bpm for the whole of the Alps event so I never had that extreme tiredness in the mornings. Slow and steady... Well it doesn’t exactly win the race but it keeps me in it. We have an expression in Portugal that translates as ‘sometimes you shouldn’t take a step that’s bigger than your leg’. Six years ago I weighed 93kg and chainsmoked. But one day I decided never to smoke again. I started cycling, ate better, hired a coach and a year later I was riding the nine-day, off-road 1150km Trans Portugal. As you can tell, it’s not an expression I live by. A race like the Haute Route is daunting when you look at it as a whole. You think, ‘What have I got myself into?’ But then you start to slice down the problem into smaller pieces, and seek advice from others. At first it seems like a mountain but broken down it’s just a series of small steps. It’s tough, of course, but it’s not the toughest endurance test. Then again, it’s as tough as the pace you set for yourself. If you’re fighting high up the leader board, it’s a huge effort but if you’re not, you are given enough margin in terms of time limits to comfortably make it inside the cut-off.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Name: Mike Jones Age: 35 Nationality: British Lives: Jersey Occupation: Financial Regulation Finishing position: 218 Time: 27h 58m (8h 5m behind winner) Put the flags out: climbing through a Pyrenean village. This was my first sportive, and I only bought my first road bike last summer thanks to a mix of Strava, the Olympics and Bradley Wiggins. I signed up blind, with no idea of what I was getting myself into, and it didn’t take long to figure I could be in real trouble. In truth the technique side, like riding in a group and descending, worried me more than fitness which looking back was pretty naïve of me. Let me tell you, fitness is the key to the Haute Route. I got my first coach the March before, I emailed him, admitting I felt out of my depth – begging for help. Initially he tried to dissuade me, arguing that an event like this is for people who’ve been cycling for years, and suggested I took a holiday in the Pyrenees to get attuned to the mountains. But what I wanted was a real challenge. If I could go back in time, I’d tell myself not to underestimate how hard it would be. I wish I’d trained more but then again, my wife and I had our second child

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

in March so spring was a write-off. The turbo turned out to be a saviour and I remember the advice a friend gave me who said an hour on the turbo was worth two on the road. We’d put the kids to bed and I’d get an hour in and then still have something left of the evening, but I didn’t have a clue what I was doing until I got a coach. I used to sit, ride and watch the football. Then I got a coach, did fitness tests and found the power zones I needed to work to. After that the sessions were hell, but shorter, 40 minutes to an hour, and made a huge difference. There was plenty of self-doubt before the start and just finishing was my only real aim. I knew I was fit but you’ve just no idea of the level of everybody else, so when I arrived and saw all the ultra-skinny guys I’d be competing against, it was a shock. All I could think was, ‘I could be in trouble here’. Stage 1, where I had five mechanicals and still finished within an hour of the cutoff, helped calm my nerves but I still had no idea how my body would hold up over seven stages. It was unknown territory. But as the event progressed, I got stronger. My friends back home were tuned in to the live tracking on the event website and had a sweepstake on how long I’d last, so proving them wrong was a constant motivator. The organisers do build up how tough it’s going to be, but that makes you take your training seriously. It’s the advice I’d give to someone in my position and new to the sport: embrace everything about cycling and put your all into it, because it’s the challenge of a lifetime.

Name: Tim Hopkin Age: 46 Nationality: British Lives: North Carolina Occupation: Parks manager Finishing position: 122 Time: 25h 22m (5h 31m behind winner) The toughest part? Probably paying for the thing! But what you get back is worth it. You can’t put a price on the memories it leaves. I’ll be talking about this for a long time and the reason I came back this year (I did the first ever in 2011) is because I’m still talking about that now. I could buy a bike or new wheels for the cost of this race but experiences give me satisfaction. I treasure those memories and the people I meet at these races and it was great to run into some of the familiar faces. One of the ladies doing the registration in Barcelona recognised me, so it was nice to be remembered. I had a strong ride this year but my main goal is to finish. I know where I stand as a climber so rather than chasing the leaders it’s about coming back day after day and riding consistently. That was compromised this year; I

broke my collar bone on stage 6 after sliding off the road in the fog on the descent of the Aubisque. The doctors had an opinion on whether I should have continued or not but with one stage left I wasn’t about to be stopped by a little collarbone injury. I came here to finish, after all. You need discipline to train for the Haute Route, with long rides to get used to being in the saddle for long periods. You could come here without many miles in your legs but you won’t enjoy yourself. It’d be a total sufferfest. The riding will be work enough but all the other things around the event, like moving your luggage, getting enough food inside, attending the nightly safety briefing, the early starts, will all be so much harder if you get off your bike totally spent. What would be my biggest tip to a new competitor? Look around and absorb your surroundings. You’ve worked like mad to pedal up these climbs, now take some time to look at the view. It’ll be worth it. What good is staring at the ground? Asphalt is asphalt, no matter where you travel and it’s certainly no different in the Pyrenees (albeit a little rougher in places). You can see a lot of cool things if you lift your head up: the wildlife, a family having a picnic. Life memories you can create. That’s what the Haute Route is selling: an experience. Something to relate to the next time the Tour or Vuelta passes over these mountains, a chance for you to be able understand what they are like to climb and the pain they mete out.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Name: Dave Moran Age: 41 Nationality: British Lives: Edinburgh Occupation: Telecoms Finishing position: 19 Time: 21h 26m (1h 35m behind winner) There’s a bit of confusion over whether the Haute Route is a race or a sportive and I guess it depends on your position in the rankings. It was a race from where I was but it’s different to a road race like you’d get in the UK. Not everybody is at a similar level, so the field becomes strung out quickly. In the Pyrenees this year, the first five guys were very serious and were competing against each other hard, at a very high level. I finished 19th, so I was in the next group back. We knew we weren’t going to win so there was a lot of respect and friendship. We’re all chasing a good placing, but when it’s not your livelihood, when it’s just a big adventure, you can enjoy the experience a bit more. You’re not riding against them but with them, and you’re all pulling in the same direction to achieve your best result possible. That said, riders in the first groups were trying everything to help improve their ranking. The Swiss Tempo Sport

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

team, which contained ex-international rowers, had support following them and handing them drinks. I was riding independently, so didn’t have that luxury. I learned from the Haute Route Alps last year that most people never stop at the feeds because you can lose so much time. You’re better off gambling on carrying all you need and hoping it’ll see you through to the finish. I would carry two bottles, one with a normal concentration and one with 50 per cent energy powder – almost a gel. It was a strategy that worked and I had a few lucky breaks on the descents that were neutralised on safety grounds and allowed me to stock up. I actually found it hard to consume anything during the race. We were either going uphill at max, which meant losing breathing rhythm if I ate, or descending at full tilt and needed to fully concentrate. The opportunities to refuel were few. Whatever level you ride the Haute Route at, my advice would be the same: never give up. If you feel like you’re about to explode, remember everyone else is feeling the same way. I’d also suggest finding a group of riders in the race who are slightly better than you because it’s likely you can go a lot harder than you think. A few guys were climbing at a rate I never believed I could sustain but I stayed with them. The first stage this year was relentless, eyeballs-out racing, and my power meter was recording watts I never knew I was capable of sustaining for that length of time. It leaves you thinking, ‘Wow, I didn’t know I could do that’.

Découvrez Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port : Une cité fortifiée médiévale au cœur du Pays Basque

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Campagnolo Gran Fondo

NEW YORK In only four years, Campagnolo Gran Fondo New York has become one of the world’s leading non-professional cycling events. The event has two distance options — the GFNY 100 has a 100 mile/160 km course (with 8,000 feet/2,400 metres of climbing) and the GFNY Bear has a 50 mile/80 km course (with 3,000 feet/900 metres of climbing).

years and briefly competed as a professional triathlete, completing the Ironman in 8:59. Lidia is a long-time New Yorker and has competed at Hawaii Ironman seven times, with a personal best time of 10:22. Uli and Lidia will race this year’s Haute Route Dolomites.

GFNY Bear 50 riders follow the GFNY 100 course all the way to the turnaround at the top of Bear Mountain, then descend to the 50 mile/ 80 km point where buses and trucks will transport them and their bikes to the finish.

Campagnolo GFNY draws riders from around the world. In 2014, they came from more than 70 countries and 48 U.S. states, which makes the race cycling’s most international peloton. “New York City is a big draw and what could be better than combining the excitement of the capital of the world with riding and racing your bike,” says Uli. A challenging course is a critical component of a granfondo. “New York State doesn’t have anything like the Dolomites so the climbs are shorter - but don’t be fooled - we scouted the area to include every hill we could possibly find! The result is a relentless up and down that adds up to 8,000 feet of climbing.”

GFNY was founded and is organized by Uli and Lidia Fluhme, as CEO and President respectively. Uli and Lidia left legal and financial careers to combine two of their life passions — granfondos and New York. Uli is a Germanborn former road racer, has ridden granfondos for 20

The course’s single greatest climbing challenge is Bear Mountain - a 4 mile/6 km climb with pitches exceeding 10% encountered inside Bear Mountain State Park at mile 41/km 65.5. Other notable climbs are Colle Andrea Pinarello at mile 55 and Colle Formaggio at mile 67.

Both routes start on the lower level of the George Washington Bridge - the world’s busiest bridge. After that, athletes head north along rolling roads up the scenic Hudson River Valley with a setting so rural it’s difficult to believe it’s only a bike ride away from the largest, most exciting city in the world.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

MAY 17, 2015 GRANFONDONY.COM REGISTER NOW

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Colle Andrea Pinarello was named after the late Andrea Pinarello who was a friend and supporter of GFNY and rode in the 2011 event three months before his death at a bike race in Italy. New for the 2014/15 season, Italy, Cozumel-Mexico, Puerto Rico, Barcelona, Colombia and Brazil are the hosts for the inaugural GFNY World series leading up to the Championship at Campagnolo Gran Fondo New York on May 17, 2015. GFNY WORLD was created for two reasons: to bring the spirit and quality of Campagnolo Gran Fondo New York to other parts of the world, and to provide participants with the opportunity to get their GFNY fix more than just once a year. Every year after the event, Campagnolo Gran Fondo New York riders ask “What now?” With the creation of the GFNY WORLD series, there are now global events that guarantee the same quality and experience as the New York event. “We have partnered with local event organizers who hold the same values as us, love the sport of cycling and their

cities and want to bring together local and international cyclists to share the same experience of riding their roads,” explains Uli. “ All of them adhere to the GFNY standards that make a true granfondo: they must have road closures or police moderated intersections to allow riders the right of way along the entire route, individual chip timing and rankings based on finish time. Top ranked finishers in all age groups at GFNY World events will be seeded in the Elite Racer corral at Campagnolo Gran Fondo New York, and all finishers at any GFNY World event will be seeded in the Preferred Start corral. “We strongly believe in giving back to participants who have been and are supporting GFNY,” adds Lidia. “Even with individual chip timing, everyone likes to start towards the front, and this is our way of saying thank you.” GFNY WORLD plans to expand into other countries by adding new events or working with existing ones.

2014/15 GFNY WORLD CALENDAR September 21, 2014 - GFNY Italia gfnyitalia.com

March 29, 2015 - GFNY Colombia gfnycolombia.com

November 23, 2014 - GFNY Cozumel-Mexico gfnycozumel.com

April 12, 2015 - GFNY Brasil - details TBC

February 15, 2015 - GFNY Puerto Rico gfnypuertorico.com March 22, 2015 - GFNY Barcelona gfnybarcelona.com

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

May 17, 2015 - GFNY CHAMPIONSHIP Campagnolo Gran Fondo New York granfondony.com

AMBASSADORS AN EXCEPTIONAL GROUP OF 17 RIDERS HAS BEEN SELECTED TO FORM TEAM HAUTE ROUTE Representing eight countries, their aim as Official Ambassadors is to connect with cycling communities, to share their experience of the Haute Route and to promote this incredible challenge. The Ambassadors closely communicate with other participants, industry players, local organisers and supporters. They participate in cycling and other sporting events throughout the year, representing and supporting the Haute Route with passion. Each of the Ambassadors is riding in at least one Haute Route event in 2014. Meet them now, and even in person during the Haute Route events.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Since then I have completed three Haute Route events and I want to share this experience with as many people as I can.

Laetitia Roux – Savines-Le-lac, France Haute Route Pyrenees 2013, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014 I am proud and delighted to welcome you to the Haute Route family. I’m sure that you’ll love this adventure just as much as I do. I first picked up the Haute Route magazine because I was interested in the incredible physical and mental challenge that the event offers. I thought that one day I might be one of these crazy racers. When I did compete I found a welcoming atmosphere among the Ambassadors, riders and supporters and the Haute Route offered me a wonderful opportunity to meet incredible people and form new friendships. My first Haute Route was such a great experience that I wanted to inspire and encourage other cyclists to learn about this amazing race. It is so much more than just a competition – it’s a week in your life where your only concern is to know where the next col is on the road.

Nicolas Raybaud – Eymeux, France Haute Route Alps 2011 & 2012, Iron Rider 2013, Triple Crown Rider 2014 With the Haute Route, OC Sport has managed to create an experience that is unique in the cycling world. After watching a stage of the Tour de France, who hasn’t been motivated to take on the punishing ascents of the Alps and Pyrenees? Being an Ambassador for the Haute Route is about inspiring riders and letting them know that nothing is impossible, no matter what your ability or level. The Haute Route events offer racers seven days to live, eat and breathe cycling. It is a test of sporting and human endurance that makes riders stronger. It offers them an opportunity to push themselves physically, endure emotionally, share their experience and create new friendships. It is the Ironman of cyclosportives.

Laurent Millerou – Saint-Etienne-de-Baigorry, France Haute Route Alps 2011 & 2012, Haute Route Pyrenees 2013 & 2014

Pascale Legrand – Longueil, Québec, Canada Haute Route Alps 2012, Iron Rider 2013, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014

During the winter of 2010/2011, I had my first serious injury – a herniated disc. While I was bedridden, I discovered the Haute Route Alps. Having undergone my operation in February I wanted to be at the start of the first Haute Route race and to experience the sensations of riding like a pro on the Tour de France through the Alps.

I am a keen cyclist in Quebec (Canada) and a few years ago, I felt a strong desire to get out of my comfort zone and discover new playgrounds. Through cycling I discovered the delights of the roads and routes of the French Riviera and the hinterland of Nice. I returned to these areas many times, but realised that I needed more.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

I wanted to climb the famous cols of the Alps and the Pyrenees. After achieving the Haute Route Alps in 2012 and both the Haute Route Alps and Pyrenees in 2013, I was hooked. Those experiences have pushed me to my limits, going further and higher, one pedal stroke after another. I am delighted to be an Haute Route Ambassador as it gives me the opportunity to share my passion with cyclists from different backgrounds, all eager to learn more about this challenge of a lifetime.

Ian Walton – Barcelona, Spain Haute Route Alps 2011 & 2012, Haute Route Pyrenees 2013 & 2014

Yves Lefebvre – Longueil, Québec, Canada Haute Alps 2012, Iron Rider 2013, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014 I am a physical trainer in a training centre dedicated to cyclists. I’ve been a rider since I was 14, as an amateur cyclist in Quebec. Twelve years ago, I discovered European cycling and have since fallen in love with the cols.

The challenge is physical and psychological. You have to make tough decisions: hard today or pace myself for tomorrow? Survive or race? The reward is special: shared struggles, achievements and friendships built over seven hard days. Why am I an Haute Route Ambassador – I have competed in four incredible Haute Route events and want everyone who loves a challenge to experience it for themselves.

In 2012, with my partner Pascale, I discovered the Haute Route Alps. We both loved this cyclosportive with its excellent organisation and amazing landscapes. In 2013, we rode both the Haute Route Alps and the Haute Route Pyrenees. This year, we are looking forward to discovering the Haute Route Dolomites and Swiss Alps.

Hiroshi Franchi – Gorlago, Italy Haute Route Alps 2011, 2012, 2013 & 2014

Steve Richard – Lausanne, Switzerland Haute Route Alps 2013, Haute Route Pyrenees 2014 I hold amazing memories of the 2013 Haute Route Alps and incredible images of the cols we climbed and the valleys we passed through. The pleasure of meeting people from all around the world and sharing such intense emotions with them pushed me to become an Ambassador and encourage others to live these unrivalled moments during extraordinary races.

It’s hard but I can do it….I'll never do it….I got there….I want to do it again. These are the feelings that I experienced before, during and after my first participation in the Haute Route Alps in 2011. Not only is it a race against the clock and other competitors, it is a personal challenge and for me it’s more of a mental and physical test. I have always loved France and have enjoyed riding in events across the country. The Haute Route was an event that I had to take part in. It gives riders the same sensations that a professional cyclist has when competing.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

ultimate team sport and the Haute Route is the ultimate event to experience that camaraderie and friendship, on and off the bike. I’m grateful for the opportunity to give a little back to the sport by spreading the word about this incredible event that will take you way beyond what you ever thought you were capable of and that will stay with you for the rest of your life. Gretchen Miller – London, UK Haute Route Alps 2012, Haute Route Pyrenees 2013, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014 The Haute Route, for me, is easily the best cycling event I’ve ever taken part in. The combination of a race against the clock, the scenery, the climbs, the challenge, and the people all pull together to deliver what is truly the most unforgettable experience on a bike. Although the primary focus is on the race and the riding, I was impressed by the sense of community and social aspects of the race and I have made many good friends as a result.

Nicholas Frank – London, UK Iron Rider 2013, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014 As an Iron Rider participating in 2013 I had enjoyed both events immensely and was surprised by the lack of awareness and exposure of the Haute Route in the UK. I felt blessed and fortunate to have some memorable shared experiences with friends, and beyond the event continued to enjoy the camaraderie and sense of community with other alumni. Consequently, it just felt right to seize the opportunity to put something back by helping to raise the profile of the event in the cycling universe.

Ben Smithers – London, UK Haute Route Alps 2013 & 2014 I rode the Haute Route for the first time in the Alps last summer. I love cycling, I love the mountains and I love challenges. The Haute Route brought all of these loves together into one of the most memorable weeks of my life. It also inspired the best in me – to train harder, to write a blog to share my journey and to raise money for charity. I jumped at the chance to be an Haute Route Ambassador so that I could share these experiences and start the next chapter in my Haute Route journey.

Igor Laguens – Sao Paulo, Brazil Haute Route Pyrenees 2013, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014 For someone who lives and breathes cycling – I watch it on TV, read magazines and follow the professionals day by day – the Haute Route is ‘THE RACE’ of your life.

Christoph Pleitgen – London, UK Haute Route Alps 2011 & 2012, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014 (for Official Charity, TT1 Foundation)

There is no bigger challenge for amateur road racers than the Haute Route. Being in this race has given me a real sense of what being a professional rider is like – to live like they do on the course and to see the wonderful sights they see.

I’m a repeat Haute Route offender and look forward to taking part in the great adventure once again – this time in the Dolomites and Swiss Alps. To me, cycling is the

I decided to become an Haute Route Ambassador in Brazil so that I could share my experience and inspire others in our growing community to take part.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

age of 55. The opportunity is so unique that I feel it’s my responsibility to share my experience with keen amateurs from all over the globe.

Ottar Henanger – Oslo, Norway Haute Route Pyrenees 2013, Triple Crown Rider 2014 I’m 41 years old and I’m a passionate cyclist living in Oslo. Like many Norwegians, most of the races I’ve taken part in have been local. However, I’m always looking for new experiences where I can challenge myself both physically and mentally, while getting inspiration from beautiful nature and fellow cyclists from other countries. After completing my first Haute Route in the Pyrenees in 2013, I was amazed by the professionalism of the race organisers, the atmosphere between participants and the extraordinary cycling routes through the Pyrenees. Back home in Norway, I want to inspire others to take part in these amazing events and experience the best of cycling in Europe, and also to present Norway as a cycling destination to other riders.

Alain Lambert – Saint Bruno, Quebec Haute Route Alps 2013, Iron Rider 2014 (for Official Charity, TT1 Foundation) When I was young and would watch professional riders battle it out on a stage of the Tour de France, Vuelta or Giro d’Italia, I would always ask myself the same question: “How do they do it?” As I got older with more disposable income and better fitness, I was determined to find a way to live how the pros live when they ride a Grand Tour. All I could find were one-day events. That wasn’t enough. Then I discovered the Haute Route – the only way for amateurs to experience what it’s like to be a Grand Tour pro rider. Having completed one week of the Haute Route in 2013, I am taking on two weeks in 2014 and intend to go for the full three weeks before I hit the

Christian Haettich – Sondernach, France Haute Route Alps 2011 & 2012, Iron Rider 2013, Triple Crown Rider 2014 Having the opportunity to take part in the Haute Route is every endurance sportsman’s dream. As I reach each summit, my body aching and bruised, I am reminded that my unique leg is worth at least as much as any “valid” leg. Going beyond my handicap, I want to discover new limits in my body through strength of mind. Reaching all three finish lines would be an accomplishment. Through such a feat, I hope to give faith to anyone who doubts their abilities, showing them that they have amazing resources within themselves. I never consider myself as a disabled athlete. I am determined, tough and proud. A physical disability does not prevent me from fighting sportingly and exceeding my own expectations.

Fergus Grant – La Tania, France Iron Rider 2013, Triple Crown Rider 2014 I live in the French Alps near Courchevel with my wife and two children. I run a ski chalet business in winter but cycling is my passion and I manage to cover between 8,000 and 12,000 km a year. Over the past eight years I have competed in a dozen different cyclosportives and last year I was the Red Lantern for the Haute Route Alps and Pyrenees, helping to motivate the back markers. I enjoyed the event and atmosphere and being part of one big team so much that I’m back for all three Haute Routes this year. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

FRIENDSHIPS AND NEW ADVENTURES AROUND THE GLOBE

THE HAUTE ROUTE IS MUCH MORE THAN JUST A CYCLING EVENT Alain on a training ride in San Francisco in between meetings, June 2014.

There is a businessman who lives in Montreal, Canada and whose coach lives in Flagstaff, Arizona. In the last month alone this businessman rode his bike not only in his hometown but also in Upper New York State, Vermont, Moscow, Zurich, Mexico City, Tucson and San Francisco. There is a Canadian mining executive with operations in Mexico who writes a cycling blog which is mainly read by British cyclists. He is also the Chairman of a US based UCI Professional Continental team which team is actually sponsored by a Danish company. There is an amateur cycling enthusiast who is married, has six children and two granddaughters, a full time job as the Chairman of a publicly-traded company, is the Chairman of two private businesses and a director of a not-for-profit Foundation who will be riding the 2014 edition of both the Haute Route Alps and Pyrenees.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

The common bond? • They love cycling but are time-crunched cyclists who work really hard to 'fit it all in' • Despite this, the Haute Route Alps in 2013 was on the bucket list • Their cycling ambitions go beyond completing the odd local group ride or one day event • They have connections to the world of cycling and relationships with riders all over the world

In other words, together, these people represent the globalization of amateur cycling. But what best shows that nowadays amateur cycling really knows no boundaries is the fact that the three people described here are actually only ONE person – Team Haute Route Ambassador, Alain Lambert. He does live in Montreal, does Chair a professional cycling team based in Atlanta, does have a coach who lives in Arizona and did the bike rides listed above with cycling friends he met over the last few years at events such as the Haute Route. Alain was asked to write about his personal story which illustrates the globalization of cycling – amateur cycling is now truly an international phenomenon that brings together a global community of people of all ages, nationalities, social backgrounds and athletic abilities. How did he establish all of these global connections and relationships? Simply by attending training camps and races in Canada and the US and participating in cycling events such as the Haute Route that saw over 35 different nationalities compete in the two events last year. That’s how he met people from all over the world. How did he stay in touch with them? Mainly via Facebook and emails.

Adventures aside, what does this all bring to his everyday life? Alain lists three of the top benefits: A job in cycling – In 2008 he attended a training camp in Tucson, Arizona where he met a young and ambitious man named Phil Southerland. Phil was diagnosed with Type 1 diabetes at the age of seven months. He is now 31. Phil was the founder and CEO of a professional cycling team which had several riders with Type 1 diabetes. His dream was to bring an all diabetics professional team to the Tour de France in 2021, the 100th anniversary of the discovery of insulin. Alain was inspired and impressed by Phil’s vision and determination so he decided to stay in touch with him. They met again at races such as the Tour of California and the US Pro Cycling Challenge in Colorado. In 2012 Phil asked Alain to become involved with the team and he now has the honour of being the Chairman of an all-diabetes Pro Continental cycling Team. Training partners internationally – Alain now knows cyclists of his level in many countries around the world. “It sometimes comes in handy”. In 2011, he attended a training camp in California where he met a very strong rider from Zurich named Marco Carnot. Excited to have beaten him on the climb up the HC Category Mount Figueroa, but dropped by him on the descent, Alain thought he’d better stay in touch with Marco as he seemed to have the ability to push him harder than most of his local riding friends. They kept in touch and did several

Summarising Alain’s mood after a training ride with Marco, June 2014

cycling events together including the Haute Route Alps in 2013. This year they are taking on two Haute Route events together as Iron Riders. So when Alain learned that he would have to be in Zurich for business this June he was quick to email Marco and suggest they talk to their respective coaches who adjusted their training programmes so that they could train together for three days. “We rode three days in a row five hours a day. With Marco I really discovered the Swiss Alps and he was a wonderful host. Again though he rode me into the ground for which I am immensely grateful!” Great friends who have an understanding and a shared passion – Alain met his good friend Dave Burke at a training camp and they stayed in touch. Over the last few years he and Dave have trained and travelled together, holidaying in the Pyrenees with their wives in 2012 and competing in the Haute Route Alps in 2013. Dave is from Ottawa but worked most of his life in Michigan. When he retired he moved to Tucson where, shortly after, Alain and his wife built a house. As a result, they see each other all the time and ride together on a regular basis and Dave is joining Marco and Alain at the Haute Route again this August. That’s only three of the many people Alain has met through global cycling. There are many others he’s met through international cycling events and who are now a part of his life. They use social media to stay Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

WHERE DO THE HAUTE ROUTE RIDERS COME FROM?

“The Haute Route is the perfect illustration of the globalization phenomenon. Its riders to date have represented over 50 different countries. Personally, I would like to ride in Africa and Asia one day so I may “recruit new friends” from these regions!”

The Kenyan Riders Programme brought together these dedicated individuals, forming a multi-tribal team from rural areas, with a united dream to be the first black African team to participate in the most prestigious professional cycling races over the next few years. As an important milestone towards this goal, the Haute Route 2012 provided vital experience of a multi-stage event in the mountains. Alongside lawyers from England, doctors from Brazil and an Olympic medalist from New Zealand to name but a few, there were plenty of opportunities to network and foster international relationships.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

in touch, make holiday plans together and coordinate cycling trips to see each other as often as possible. They regularly compare notes on training, challenge each other throughout the year and keep each other motivated. “The benefits of amateur cycling’s globalization and the advent of social media and other technologies have had a hugely positive impact on my life and ‘cycling career’.” “If you are reading this article it’s more than likely that you are riding one of the three Haute Route events this year. The Haute Route is the perfect event for you to start forming your own international relationships. Try it and trust me, you will benefit from it from a personal and athletic perspective. And who knows, maybe like me, you may also benefit in a professional capacity.” There are three main aspects of the Haute Route that facilitate the establishment of global relationships. The first one is that all riders, if they have not entered as a team, are assigned a team thereby introducing them to a group of people they wouldn’t have known before. The second one is that riders eat together, stay in the same hotels and go to the same safety briefings. They interact a lot. The last reason and the most significant one in Alain’s view is that there is a unique bond that develops naturally between people who suffer together. “Some Haute Route riders might complete a stage in three and a half hours and others in six. The rider who took three and a half hours to complete a stage has something in common with the rider who took six hours: they suffered just as much as each other. “As with many multi-day endurance events, there is something truly magical which takes place when you put together a group of ‘A Type’ individuals and get them to

work as team. It doesn’t matter if they know each other or not or if they only see each other once every six months – my experience is that it brings out the best in people. “The challenge that is inherent with an event like Haute Route makes it impossible for all participants not to be happy for each and every rider that comes across the finish line. Cycling is a team sport and everyone who shows up at the Haute Route understands it and behaves accordingly. We look after each other, we understand each other and we all support each other. I experienced exactly that on the Haute Route Alps last year. I remember stopping on the side of the road at one point in stage 6 to stretch my bad knee. Probably two dozen people passed me and 100% of them asked me if I was OK and in need of anything. “Doing the Haute Route allows you to be part of a unique adventure where not only the riding is amazing but where the mood is great, the speeches are inspirational and there will clearly be a lot of emotion in the air when the week finally comes to an end. The group dinners provide an opportunity for all to show their soft side, reinforcing the fact that the strong and the humane go hand in hand. “The relationships you will make while riding the most famous Giro d’Italia, Vuelta and Tour de France climbs will open up a world of opportunities that could help you become a better rider and give you a chance to participate in other challenging cycling events in the future with people who share and therefore understand your passion for challenging endurance events. These relationships will give you the opportunity to learn about different cultures and open up travel destinations you might not have thought about. What is there not to like about going global then?”

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

STAR ATTRACTION It is a well known fact that many top stars from the world of sport, business, fashion and film, who like living life at the sharp end of the spectrum, have been truly bitten by the road biking bug in recent years – Formula 1 legend Alain Prost, sailing supremo Franck Cammas, business magnet Alan Sugar and fashion designer Paul Smith to name just a few. Here we find out what attracts British mountaineer and Everest expert Kenton Cool, who has conquered Everest more than ten times, to life in the saddle… Kenton Cool first competed in 2012 on the Haute Route Alps and returned again in 2013 for the Haute Route Pyrenees. Fit, tall and good-looking, after just a few minutes in his company, you also quickly realise he has an easy, down to earth nature (despite his lofty pursuits) and a great attitude to life that, in part, goes some way to explaining his motivation for taking on a challenge – although his affable nature masks the steely grit that is the backbone of this impressive man. Asked why he wanted to do the Haute Route, the first part of his answer was not so surprising: “I’m always looking for the next challenge…” But the second part was the most surprising: “I’ve climbed Everest 10 times and the Haute Route is arguably the biggest challenge of my life.”

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

A man who loves high altitude and taking on the mountain by foot, his natural ability as a climber is proven by his outstanding record: “I’m essentially a professional mountaineer. I spend six months of the year in the Himalayas and specialise on Everest.” But taking on the mountain on two wheels forces Cool out of his comfort zone, making the Haute Route challenge just that little bit harder. After finishing the 138 km Marathon Stage in 2012 from Courchevel to Alpe d’Huez that included 4700m of ascent and 4200m of descent, Cool tweeted: ‘Climbing Everest was easy compared to today’s stage - hardest thing ever’. As hundreds of Haute Route riders of varying abilities can attest to, anything is possible if you put your mind to

it and put in the hours of training required to complete a multi-stage timed event. But what especially appeals to Cool is not only the unique atmosphere of the Haute Route, it’s also the opportunity to feel like a pro: “It’s so enjoyable and, yes, it is as close as us mere mortals will get to being a pro. Not having to stop at roundabouts or red lights, people at the side of the road clapping you on, little children waving from balconies, even the police coming past and going ‘allez, allez’. It is just so special and we get that little insight, that tiny insight, into what it must be like to be in a pro peloton.” A family man with a full-time business, Cool also believes in the benefits of cycling to help balance the demands of work: “Cycling is just brilliant… You can lose yourself for that amount of time on the bike even if it’s on your own. In fact, going out on your own is sometimes the nicest way to do it. You can process everything that is going on in your mind – business-wise, personal-wise - where else in this day and age, where it’s now, now, emails and telephone calls, can you just get on the bicycle and for that time it’s your time.” Cool by name and cool by nature… This is a man who understands his priorities and highly prizes time out on the bike, whilst at the same time taking on just one more challenge!

Laetitia Roux, ten-time Ski Mountaineering World Champion, winner of the World Cup, Pierra Menta, Mezzalama and Patrouille des Glaciers. Competed in the 2012 Haute Route Alps Individual Time Trial stage and returned to the Haute Route Pyrenees 2013.

Alain Prost, four-time Formula 1 World Champion. Competed in the 2011 and 2012 Haute Route Alps.

Franck Cammas, offshore sailing legend… Winner of the Volvo Ocean Race 2011-12, winner of the Route du Rhum 2010, Jules Verne Record Holder from 2010 to 2012. Competed in the Marathon Stage and the Individual Time Trial of the 2012 Haute Route Alps.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Luc Alphand, winner of the FIS Alpine Greg LeMond, three-time Tour de France Skiing World Cup, winner of the Dakar winner (1986,1989,1990). Attended the Rally. Competed in the 2011 Haute Route 2013 Haute Route Pyrenees. Alps Individual Time Trial and returned on two stages of the Haute Route Alps 2013.

A STAR IN HIS OWN RIGHT Nicolas Raybaud has raced every Haute Route since it’s inception in 2011 and is this year taking up the Triple Crown gauntlet, making him one of only four members of that elite club. “All challenges are frightening, most give you a sense of achievement, but few create the joy experienced on the Haute Route. Every year it’s the same feeling of apprehension. But once finished, you realise what you have achieved. Each edition of the Haute Route makes me grow, both physically and mentally.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Stephen Roche, winner of the ‘Triple Crown’ in 1987 (Tour de France, Giro d’Italia, World Championships). Competed in the last two stages of the 2011 Haute Route Alps.

"Since 2011, I have experienced incredible moments and had some unforgettable encounters that have allowed me to travel and progress. “The Haute Route is the ‘Iron Man’ of amateur cycling; the Giro, the Vuelta and the Tour de France condensed into one event. “Cycling three Haute Routes is an unbelievable personal challenge – you have to dig deep inside you to find the necessary mental toughness and physical resources. Then the horizon opens up to you. There is nothing impossible. You learn to take the best from difficult times.”

“Where you live in the world should not determine whether you live in the world” Bono

Team Type 1 fights for the right to live through a global mission of education, empowerment and global access to medicine for everyone affected by diabetes. The Foundation is working on disparities in diabetes care around the world through collaborative strategies that engage governments, health organizations, healthcare providers, diabetes educators and people with diabetes. The Team Type 1 Foundation exists because everyone with diabetes deserves the right to lead a healthy and productive life. In developing countries, that means changing healthcare policy to ensure everyone has access to the medicine and tools they need to survive and thrive. In developed countries it means providing empowerment and inspiration to people with diabetes. Phil Southerland is the Foundation’s President and Founder, while Dr. Biljana Southerland is the Program Director of Medical and Governmental Affairs. Dr. Southerland is a former advisor to the Macedonian Ministry of Health and the architect of Macedonia’s National Diabetes Programme – one of the most progressive diabetes care policies in the world.

More than 371 million people worldwide have diabetes and many are needlessly suffering from preventable complications or even death, simply because they don’t have access to the medication or tools necessary to manage their condition,” said Dr. Southerland. “The Team Type 1 Foundation is dedicated to changing these statistics.” Based in part on the success of the Macedonian programme – which fully covers the cost of insulin and glucose testing supplies for everyone in the country living with diabetes – the Team Type 1 Foundation largely focuses on helping developing countries around the world to scale the Macedonian model to establish a sustainable diabetes care policy. Starting in Rwanda, a country where seven out of eight people with diabetes die before they are even diagnosed, the Foundation is working with government and healthcare officials to build a long-term solution. This year, the Foundation donated 1 million test strips and 900 blood glucose monitors, effectively providing a one-year supply for the entire Rwandan population of individuals with Type 1 diabetes. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Christoph Pleitgen London-based Christoph Pleitgen competed in the Haute Route Alps 2012, but then had to put his cycling ambitions on hold: “I have only started to cycle again after having been sidelined since late 2012 with a heart condition,” said Christoph. “Progress has been slow and painful and I have lost a bit of power and endurance after having to go through heart surgery last summer. Simply being able to finish reasonably well this year will be a huge accomplishment for me.” Appreciating the benefits of peak health, Christoph will be raising funds for the Haute Route Official Charity: “The challenges I faced have left me feeling deeply grateful for once again being able to lead a normal and physically active life. As a charity rider for Team Type 1, I would like to express that gratitude by helping to secure funding for the crucially important fight against diabetes.” Greg Brown "Last summer, I was lucky to have the opportunity to race in the Haute Route Alps. I was fortunate to finish the race (800 km/500 mls, 20,000m/60,000ft of climbing) in 29hrs:13min:38. This was so much fun (crazy fun) that I’m doing it again, but with a different motivation this time around. "I have set two ambitious goals this summer. One goal is to raise funds for Team Type 1 Foundation in remembrance of my sister Kathy, who, at age 59 died of complications from diabetes. I am dedicating this race to her. The other goal is to finish the Haute Route Dolomites. To me, finishing the race is the easier goal."

David Burke “At the 2012 USA Pro Challenge in Colorado my friend Alain Lambert introduced me to Phil Southerland. Alain and I have shared a number of cycling adventures over the years and he is now the Chairman of TT1. Knowing them both led me to read Phil’s autobiography which has given me a far greater insight into living with diabetes. My family and I have not been directly affected by diabetes but I found the foundation’s goals and the passion and drive of the TT1 leaders inspiring. It was easy for me to make a contribution to their work. Last year I rode Haute Route Alps and there was a lot of interest from friends and family so with the Haute Route/TT1 partnership I saw an opportunity to share the story and hope that others find TT1 worth supporting.”

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Te a m Ty p e 1

1 Te a m Ty p e

Te a m Ty p e 1

THANK THE FOLLOWING RIDERS FOR RAISING

Ty p e 1 Te a m

TEAM TYPE 1 FOUNDATION WOULD LIKE TO FUNDS FOR TEAM TYPE 1'S MISSION: Greg Brown Alain Lambert Fredrik Nystedt Paul Mead Christoph Pleitgen David Burke Phil Southerland Because of your efforts people in Africa with Type 1 diabetes will have access to medicine to stay alive! Team Type 1 would like to thank the following Team Novo Nordisk Development riders for educating and inspiring others with Type 1 diabetes: Justin McQuerry, Ezra Ward-Packard, Brais Dacal, Michael Dalterio, Corentin Cherhal, Gerd de Keijzer.

Rider’s taking on the additional challenge of a fundraising goal for Team Type 1 Foundation will, depending on which of the 3 entry levels they select, enjoy some or all of these and other additional benefits: a personalised fundraising web page, online coaching advice, a Team Novo Nordisk kit, an Haute Route Team Type 1 jersey, mechanical assistance, Team dinner, souvenir photographs and – an exceptional incentive – full reimbursement of the Haute Route entry and accommodation fees upon reaching that goal within 30 days of finishing their event. Entry levels: Executive Member Individual Member Iron Member Triple Crown Member

– € 10,000 fundraising goal – € 2,000 fundraising goal – € 7,500 fundraising goal – € 10,000 fundraising goal

Make an individual donation of € 100 and receive a Team Type 1 Foundation T-shirt. For further information go to: www.hauteroute.org/about/charity

For more information on the Team Type 1 Foundation go to www.teamtype1.org Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

THE DAILY ROUTINE OF AN HAUTE ROUTE RIDER

The Haute Route is a seven timed stage event that effectively takes place in one long day – a day that lasts between 30 and 60 hours, depending on your ability. Competing in such a long and challenging event has the effect of making all the days merge into one, giving riders of all abilities a unique opportunity to live like a pro, providing a better perspective on how difficult and amazing the life of a professional cyclist can be. Fortunately, one of the magical by-products of riding through the most famous climbs in the world, against the clock, for seven days in a row is that you completely forget the grind of your normal routine. You’re too tired and ecstatic to worry, to check emails, to call the office. Too tired to even think sometimes – other than about what time your next massage or meal is. You’re in a ‘bubble’ for an entire week, meeting fellow riders from all over the world and having the time of your life on two wheels.

Haute Route Training Official Supplier, Alpine Cols, explain how a Haute Route rider’s day should look: 04:45 Alarm goes off

12:00+ Arrival

Breakfast. Mainly high quality, low-fibre carbohydrates. Drink plenty of water early, then switch to a pre-start sports beverage. Limit the coffee. Confirm the weather and dress accordingly. Even if the weather is fine, the temperature difference during the day may exceed 20˚c. Consider warming up on the bike (ideally 15 minutes at med-high cadence, low intensity, with 3x10 second sprints towards the end). Stay hydrated and eat a high-energy snack just before the start.

The first thing you need to do is EAT A FULL MEAL. Everything else comes later. Having a high-carbohydrate/ high-protein recovery drink while you wait for your lunch is a good idea. After your shower, put on a pair of compression/recovery socks and get a massage and an electrostimulation recovery session with Compex. Re-hydrate throughout the afternoon (your urine should be clear). That means always keep a water bottle next to you and keep drinking until you go to bed. Above all, REST! Resist all temptations other than to lie down with a good book.

07:00 Start Unless you are experienced or are battling for a spot on the Overall Ranking take it easy! You are in for a long day. Pace yourself and finish strong. Drink early and often (every 5 minutes). On a hot day you should drink at least two bottles per hour. Eat a gel or an energy bar every 20 to 30 minutes and before each climb. Take at least one savoury snack with you. You will probably expend between 3,000 and 4,000 calories during the day and should plan to replace at least a third of that (in liquid form) whilst riding.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

17:30 Prize giving ceremony and daily safety briefing 19:30 Evening meal Light, high quality, easily digested. Prepare your kit, your water bottles and your nutrition for the next day. Check the weather forecast, review the route profile and identify the key points.. 21:00 Lights out: time to sleep!

RIDER'S VIEWS Alain Lambert - Team Haute Route, Haute Route Alps 2013, Iron Rider 2014 The Haute Route is a world-renowned event because of the immense physical and mental challenge it represents. It’s the ultimate personal test for the endurance athlete: “Can I get ready for it when I have a full time job? Can I get ready for it although I have a family? Can I complete the event? How far can I push myself?” It’s not just a bike ride, it’s an adventure that starts months before the actual event. Serious preparation is crucial – you will constantly need to battle physical and mental fatigue, doubts, long steep climbs, stretches of flat straight roads with a

crosswind and twisty descents. Each morning, you’ll wake up so tired you will feel like you can’t even ride ten kilometers yet you’ll go out and ride a hundred and thirty kilometers. You will battle your new buddies up the last few kilometers of each stage as if your life depends on it. You’ll discover new limits for both your body and your mind. And when you cross the finish line at the end of the week you’ll feel a sense of accomplishment that will stay with you forever.

Simon Kemp - Chief medical Officer, England Rugby Team, Haute Route Alps 2013, Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014 The Haute Route is a wonderfully intense and rich experience. It challenges you in quite different ways to a single day event. Finishing within the time limit is possible not only for those blessed with an elite cyclists physiology but also by the determined recreational rider who has prepared well, rides to a consistent and sensible power output and can recover well each day. Based on my personal experience last year in the Alps – the ability to re-fuel, re-hydrate and actively recover with stretching, massage and sitting in a cold mountain stream at the end

of the day’s stage together with getting enough good quality sleep is key to how your legs feel the next day. You might even find, as I did, that you feel better on Day 6 than Day 3! But remember, even if you do all of this perfectly, there will be times in the week when your resolve will be at it's limit and then it simply comes down to how much “you want it”. The satisfaction that comes with knowing that you faced up to and overcame these moments for me is a key part of what makes the Haute Route such a marvellous experience.

Nicholas Frank - Team Haute Route, Iron Rider 2013, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps 2014 "Less than six months before the Haute Route Alps last year, I was enormously daunted by the prospect of what I had signed up for. I’d only been doing “serious” riding for 12 months, had never done a multi-day back to back event against the clock and my job required me to be on a plane every week – I really didn’t know when I went out for a ride whether I was improving my performance or not. "Previous riders had commented that post-race management is as crucial for successful completion as riding so I wanted to be in the type of condition that

meant I could optimize my recovery off the bike. Curious about the science of performance, I found a coach that I could partner with to develop a training programme that accommodates my limited time and my transient lifestyle, and get me optimally prepared and ready for the event. "From seeking only to finish, to finishing mid-group in the Alps and going straight on to ride the Pyrenees as an Iron Rider, the significant benefits of working with a coach are evident."

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

T A K I N G

C A R E

O F

Y O U R

MIND AND BODY The average Haute Route rider will spend a few months ahead of the event getting ready for the challenge. This preparation will include countless hours of training on the bike as well as reading about diverse topics such as preparation, lactate threshold, climbing techniques and nutrition/hydration and before you head for Venice, Geneva or Barcelona, you will most likely get your bike inspected and tuned. In other words, you’ll arrive at the start line with the confidence that you are well prepared for the massive challenge ahead - a unique and remarkable seven-day ride-of-your-life. Riding four and a half to nine hours a day, seven days in a row is a new experience for most riders and below are some valuable tips to help you through it.

Doctor and Team Haute Route Ambassador Hiroshi Franchi offers his recommendations: BEFORE A STAGE Full digestion takes three to four hours depending on the athlete and, during this time lapse, the stomach and pancreas use great quantities of blood for the digestion process. Given that the time between breakfast and the beginning of a stage is about 60-90 minutes, it’s not good to have a big breakfast as this will cause you to feel under par in the early part of the race. Eat lightly and make it all carbohydrates – you will rely on the carbohydrates from the night before. If however, that first hour is going to be mild, you can have a bigger breakfast but beware of the possibility of an insulin spike after eating which will cause a feeling of lethargy early in your race. DURING A STAGE It’s important to know yourself and your own limits, always conscious that you will have to pedal for seven days in a row. You should avoid accumulation of lactic acid that isn’t easy to digest even after a massage or the absorption of vitamin supplements. If you’re in really great shape however, you can be less concerned about lactate accumulation – you’ll find a rhythm at a higher speed and power and settle in.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Try to pedal nimbly at high frequencies; remember that at 60 RPM the pedal makes 1 full turn per second, whereas at 90 RPM it takes 0.66 seconds which means 34% less with a reduced oxygen consumption given the lesser muscular contraction. Higher cadence is more efficient at higher power only though, and it’s a mechanical efficiency, but when you are at lower power, a lower cadence of 70-80 is more efficient. Heat exposure causes a sharp plasma volume reduction, and subsequently a hematocrit increase because of dehydration. Drink and eat before your body demands it because at that point it might be too late. Each stage will take between four and a half and nine hours. It’s recommended you eat easy-to-chew solid food such as energy bars during the first part whereas later, where the effort is more intense, it’s better to use gels or liquid carbohydrates. Try to eat during low intensity phases and drink carbs when intensity is high Beware of “bonking”. These types of crises can be traced to a single cause: exhaustion of hepatic and muscular glycogen reserves. About 100g of glycogen is stored in the

liver to maintain a constant blood sugar level (glycemia) – essential for correct brain function. Running out of muscular glycogen (about 400 g) can be prevented by an adequate intake of carbohydrates in the twelve to twenty-four hours preceding the effort and a continuous intake of sugar during the event – at least 30-50g of sugars or quickly absorbed carbohydrates for every hour of effort. There are several feed zones on the course and not stopping to get water and food might save you two or three minutes but will easily cost you twenty to thirty minutes later on if you bonk. You should replace half the calories you are burning. For example, if you burn 600 calories per hour on average, you should absorb 300 calories per hour – about 75g of carbohydrates (i.e. 1 litre of an energy drink or 2 gels or 1 energy bar). The hotter it is, the more calories you need to take from a drink and the more you want to drink. AFTER A STAGE Food, massages and rest are all you need – and they should be taken in that order. Try not to skip the massage, especially a flushing one, which will aid recovery and reduce soreness, but only if you are accustomed to them. Replacement of fluid lost is essential. Immediately after finishing, you should drink between 0.5 and 1 litre. Favour

Haute Route Medical Assistance The Haute Route medical team is ready to respond to emergencies 24/7 during the event, with two ambulances and a crew of over 50 trained specialists including doctors nurses and EMT's, as well 25-35 physiotherapists and masseurs to help riders to recover from the day and better manage their performance.

a recovery drink rich in antioxidants, BCAA, vitamins and slow sugar. Continue drinking regularly in the hours that follow. Carbohydrates (CHO) are our body’s fuel – within an hour of finishing, take in around 1.5g CHO/kg, but also eat proteins in the form of lean meat such as chicken, turkey and fish (red meat is best avoided as it can take a few days to digest completely) and sugar from fruits and sweets. Take it easy on the alcohol! Beer or wine are OK – one glass is enough to relax with but remember alcohol can impair correct hydration. To get the most of your rest time, it’s a good idea, after a light supper, to go to bed at the same time every day and at a time that will provide at least eight hours of sleep. Try to wake up at the same time each day too. A restful environment (a quiet, cool, dark room), reading a book and avoiding online surfing before bedtime will all help. The human body is very resilient, especially if you feed it properly and help it recover. If you arrive at the start line well prepared and apply these simple recommendations, it will help you to complete and make the most of your Haute Route challenge.

Overstims gels, isotonic powders and energy bars are available on all the refreshment points to give you the energy you need to achieve your goal. During effort, hydrate yourself regularly with LONG DISTANCE HYDRIXIR®. 1 or 2 mouthfuls every 10 minutes maintains perfect hydration and a constant source of energy. Every hour, vary between 1 ANTIOXIDANT GEL and 1 ENERGIX® for an additional source of energy. Keep the COUP DE FOUET® gel for the really tough moments. Take FRUITY BARS and AMELIX® regularly. If you don’t have a sweet tooth take SALTY BARS.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

The Haute Route’s Race Management team’s objective is to deliver events that are the unparalleled ‘professional’ experience for amateur cyclists. Not simply because of the 20,000m of ascent in the most legendary cols of the French Alps, Italian Dolomites, Swiss Alps and Pyrenees – should an Haute Route be considered the amateur equivalent of one of pro cycling’s Grand Tours – but it’s the infrastructure and attention to detail behind the scenes that ensures the Haute Route events stand apart ‘from the crowd’. Four years ago, OC Sport's CEO, Rémi Duchemin and Race Director, Jean-François Alcan, created the Haute Route. Their singular goal, since the inaugural Haute Route Alps event in 2011, has been to offer amateur cyclists the most desirable ‘must-do’ event. To that end, the organisation team set out to bring a high level of cycling and event management knowledge and experience, year round, to the planning, organisation, and running of each of the events. The ‘professionalism’ of the Haute Route begins with the Race Directors. Jean-François Alcan brings years of experience, from working on different cycling races for amateurs, to the design of the stages and routes of the

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Haute Route Alps and Haute Route Pyrenees. From a similar background, and with the knowledge of life as a former professional cyclist, Laurent Bezault brings an equal level of experience and knowledge to his role as Race Director for the inaugural edition of the Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps. The exceptional format of the Haute Route is only possible because of the special permissions granted, in negotiations with the Race Directors, by the cities, public authorities and police along the route covered by each event. These permissions allow for priority right-of-way for riders over all other road users, wherever possible; and are enforced by the 700-800 volunteer marshals recruited specifically for each Haute Route event. Each of the seven stages are timed and ranked, with daily winners in the categories of solo man, solo woman, and team; along with a ‘Coup de Coeur du Jour’ award to the rider in the peloton judged to have best displayed the spirit of the Haute Route that day. The overall leaders of the event are easily identified by their special jerseys – yellow, red, or pink, depending on the event – and each member of the leading team proudly displays an insignia on the back of their jersey. A concerted effort by the race management team ensures that each of the seven stages

are incomparable, including the marathon stage and a mid-week individual time trial; so any rider with designs on topping the overall rankings at the finish must be capable of conquering them all. In addition, every effort is made to ensure that as many kilometers of each stage as possible are timed. The only exceptions to this are occasions when the organisers deem that rider safety must take priority: in the case of a dangerous descent, hazardous road surface, or inclement weather, for example. To ensure that each stage begins as smoothly as possible, riders are managed at the start in groups of 75-100, to create fluidity within the initial peloton. The level of support during the Haute Route is also unique. In partnership with a number of companies who are experts in their field, and through the recruitment of 800 volunteer marshals for each event, the organisers ensure that Haute Route riders enjoy an unprecedented level of safety, security and comfort. The Haute Route Alps, Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps and Haute Route Pyrenees are undeniably a series of ‘professional’ events, for amateur cyclists!

Each Stage includes: Marshals ensuring priority right-of-way for riders 35 safety, medical, and press motorcycles accompanying the peloton 2 Gendarmerie motorcycles on each of the stages in France The Race Director’s vehicle at the front of the race 1 official mid-race vehicle 1 official end-race vehicle, and a ‘broom wagon’ to collect riders if necessary 2 ambulances A medical support team of 2 doctors and 11 EMTs/nurses A team of 25-35 professional masseurs at each Race Village 4 to 5 fully staffed refreshment points per stage 4 mechanical support vehicles

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

TIMINGS & RANKINGS How does it all work? Here we explain how the timings and rankings work for each Haute Route. There is no doubt that the riders are a competitive bunch on the bike, whether they want to beat the guys around them, improve their own time or ranking within the peloton or simply want to finish inside the cut off time on each stage, the most viewed page online is the Results page! And just like on a pro tour, there is a daily prize-giving, not only rewarding the leaders but also the Haute Route ‘Coup de Cœur’, recognizing an outstanding performance or act of camaraderie; and, like the pros, the leader of the day for men and women, will be proudly sporting the leader’s coloured jersey the next day. TIMINGS Each Haute Route is a timed and ranked, multi-stage event. Timing mats are located at • the official start & finish timing lines of each stage (there may be sections at the beginning and end of a stage that are non-timed and, as such, the timing mats may sometimes be located after the departure line and before the arrival line) • the start & finish of any timed ascents of Cols • the start & finish of any non-timed sections of the route The non-timed sections may be • at the request of the local or regional authorities or police, typically at the start and/or finish of a stage • in the case of a descent that the Race Director considers too dangerous to be timed • in the case of road surface conditions or construction work necessitating a timing stop • in the case of severe weather providing a potential

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

danger to riders IDENTIFICATION OF LEADING RIDERS During the daily official prize giving ceremony, a distinctive jersey will be given to each leader of the Solo (men’s and women’s) rankings. It will be mandatory for the recipients to wear these jerseys during the stage of the following day and until they relinquish their leading position to someone else. A distinctive coloured insignia will also be given to each member of the leading Team of the overall ranking. It will be mandatory for each recipient to wear this on their jersey during the stage of the following day and until they relinquish their leading position to another team. HAUTE ROUTE EVENT SPECIFIC JERSEYS There is an official jersey specific to each of the Haute Route events that is part of the kit for riders and this year, riders also have the option to buy a ‘national’ jersey, designed by LeMarq. RANKINGS Rankings for each Stage are published daily, with overall rankings published at the end of Stage Seven, by male, female and team. • Each participant will be ranked in the overall individual ranking (Solo) and also in the overall team ranking • Rankings will be based on real time, i.e. the time between the start and the finish of the timed sections, excluding any untimed (neutralised) sections • The precise time taken into account will be the one registered by a frame plate crossing the finish line

• The overall individual ranking (Solo) will be established on the basis of a rider’s cumulative time across all of the stages • Riders completing all seven stages and crossing the finish line inside the cut-off-time will be eligible for the final overall individual ranking and become an Haute Route Finisher • The daily team ranking will be based on the total times of the best three rider’s from each team on that day • The overall team ranking will be based on the total of the best three rider’s times for each stage (a team must have at least three riders ranked in the final overall individual ranking) LANTERNE ROUGE The Lanterne Rouge is traditionally the last competitor to finish a cycling race and Team Haute Route’s Fergus will once again be the Lanterne Rouge for all three events this year. Fergus will be towards the rear of the peleton at all times, supporting and encouraging the last riders to the finish. Even though he will himself be the last to finish within the time limit, he may pass riders by from time to time during the Stage – this doesn’t mean they are going to be outside of the official finish time, as long as they beat him to the finish line. PRIZES & AWARDS An official prize-giving ceremony will take place at the end of each stage, in the heart of the Event Village. Trophy for • the first 3 men in the Solo Men’s ranking   • the first 3 women in the Solo Women’s ranking   Leader’s jersey and winner’s jersey for • the leader of the Overall Solo Men’s ranking • the leader of the Overall Solo Women’s ranking Leader’s jersey insignia and winner’s jerseys  for • the leading team of the Overall Team ranking   Special award for • The ‘Coup de Cœur’ of the Day* Medal and t-shirt for every individual that finishes the Haute Route *‘Coup de Cœur’ of the Day’ A ‘Coup de Coeur’ (from the heart) prize will be awarded daily to someone in the peloton for their outstanding efforts or behavior – a bold reaction to an unexpected situation such as helping another rider, a big climb in the rankings, overcoming a particularly tough day. The key element is that it ‘comes from the heart’ and expresses the spirit of camaraderie of the Haute Route. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Close encounters with the four-legged kind... There is no knowing who or what you might encounter on the Haute Route.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

ANDERMATT ATT STAGE 6 THURSDAY 21ST AUGUST

ST WEDNESDAY 20TH AU

STAGE 7 FRIDAY 22ND AUGUST CRANS-MONTANA -MONTA

FINISH GENEVA

DOLOMITES SWISS ALPS COURSE OVERVIEW VENICE - GENEVA | 933 KM The Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps is THE new addition to the Haute Route family in 2014. When registrations opened for all three events, it was clear from the start that the Dolomites Swiss Alps was the Haute Route event of choice for many riders, especially Haute Routers who had already tackled the challenging Alps and Pyrenees, and there are plenty of good reasons why. This

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

thrilling new course will start from the exquisite Italian city of Venice on Saturday 16th August and finish on Friday 22nd August in the Swiss capital of Geneva taking the riders from the coastal shores of the Adriatic Sea to the inland shores of Lake Geneva across seven timed stages, 933km, 17 mythical cols and 20,350m of vertical gain.

TAGE 5 UGUST

STAGE TAGE 4 TUESDAY 19TH AUGUST SAINT INT MO MORITZ

MERANO

CORTINA D’AMPEZZO

STELVIO

BORMIO STAGE 2 SUNDAY 17TH AUGUST STAGE 3 MONDAY 18TH AUGUST STAGE 1 SATURDAY 16TH AUGUST

CONEGLIANO

START VENICE

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

START: VENICE The start city of Venice will host the Haute Route Event Village and for two days the number of bikes might outweigh the number of gondolas! It is the perfect opportunity for riders to enjoy a weekend away with loved ones before setting off on the challenge of a lifetime. Basking in the glory of its Grand Canal palaces, Venice is an important tourist destination and home to more artistic masterpieces per square kilometer than anywhere else. It also serves as a major centre for art and cultural festivals including the Venice Biennale and the Venice Film Festival. Set against an exquisite backdrop of colourful waterways, narrow calli and ancient palazzo are the local artisans making shoes and cooks whipping up local delicacies on their tiny stoves in the street. Water laps at the doorsteps of hotels and basilicas in the complex network of canals that connect the 118 small islands, and the traditional gondolas serve a major role in ferrying locals and tourists around the city.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

The streets of Venice are not known for being cycle friendly, however for the inaugural Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps the city has granted permission for the peloton to ride through Venice on Friday, 15th August. â&#x20AC;&#x153;On the eve of the first Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps with the beautiful city of Venice as our backdrop, it will be an incredible sight to see the parade of riders crossing the Ponte della Liberta bridge which is the only access road to the historical centre of the most romantic city in the world,â&#x20AC;? explained Race Director Laurent Bezault. Starting from Isola Nuova del Tronchetto, the location of the Haute Route Race village, the peloton will head towards the centre of Venice across the Ponte della Liberta to Parco San Giulano, situated at the entrance to the city, an area of about 700 hectares overlooking the lagoon. Riders will leave as a peloton at 4.30pm for the 12km parade, escorted by local police to guarantee their safety on one of the busiest weekends of the year.

FINISH: GENEVA The riders finish the Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps on Friday 22nd August on the beautiful shores of Lake Geneva, a welcome sight after 933 kilometres of challenging riding. As they finish another 500 riders will arrive for the Haute Route Alps starting on Sunday, 24th August so Geneva is set to become the world capital for amateur cycling over this transition weekend. Lying between the mountain chains of the Alps and the Jura, and along the peaceful shores of Europeâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s largest alpine lake, Geneva remains unspoilt but at the same time a cosmopolitan, global city which is home to many of the worldâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s international agencies and financial institutions. Catering for skiers in winter and sports enthusiasts in summer it is an all year destination and a perfect location as host city to the Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps finish.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 1 CONEGLIANO CORTINA D’AMPEZZO

123 KM / 2600 M+ / 1650 M-

After taking the train from Venice, 80 kilometres to the north, your challenge will begin in Conegliano and take you through 123km of breathtaking mountain scenery to Cortina d’Ampezzo. Having crossed part of the Province of Treviso, you will encounter your first challenge – Passo San Boldo. Reasonably difficult, with a 6 kilometre climb to reach an altitude of 706m, the first col of your journey will feature numerous turns and tunnels as you reach the top. Then, at the very last moment, the first superb views of the Dolomites will reveal themselves. En route to Selva di Cadore, you will witness the spectacle of the Passo Giau before you. You’ll climb 10 kilometres with a steady 9 % slope to the peak at 2,236m before your descent into Cortina d’Ampezzo and a good night’s sleep!

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Conegliano at 9:00 on Saturday, 16th August •Arrive in Cortina d’Ampezzo from early afternoon •23km, including 104km that will be timed •2,600m of elevation gain •1,650m of descent •4 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Passo San Boldo, 706m altitude, 446m altitude gain over 17km •Passo Giau, 2,236m altitude, 1,456m altitude gain over 33km

Venue: Conegliano Famous for Italy’s favourite aperitif Prosecco, the historic town of Conegliano is situated in prime wine-producing country close to the foothills of the Dolomites in the Veneto, northern Italy. The town is dominated by the remains of a 10th century hilltop castle and offers rich pickings of fine wines and wonderful local produce in the local restaurants.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 2 CORTINA D’AMPEZZO – MERANO

140 KM / 2500 M+ / 3400 M-

The 140km to Merano takes in the beautiful scenery at the heart of the Dolomites with views of the Marmolada, the highest peak at 3,342m. Commencing with a 16km ascent out of Cortina d’Ampezzo to the 2,105m Passo Falzarego the 5.6% average at the beginning will increase in the last 2km to 8-9% average. The slopes of the notorious Passo Pordoi beckon with their wide road but the ascent to 2239m will offer little respite with an 8% average over 9km until you reach the rewarding panoramic views of the Sass di Forcia, before heading downhill into Val di Fassa. The 1745m Passo di Costalunga ascends 400m over 10km but conceals a tough third kilometre averaging 10%. With 100km under the wheels the descent into Bolzano must be carefully judged before the 30km valley descent into the spa town of Merano where you may decide to book yourself in at the spa!

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

•Depart Cortina d'Ampezzo at 7.30am on Sunday, 17th August •Arrive in Merano from late morning •140km, including 140km that will be timed •2,500m of elevation gain / 3400m of descent •4 refreshment points along the route

KEY FEATURES

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Passo Falzarego, 2,105m altitude, 894m altitude gain over 16.4km •Passo Pordoi, 2,239m altitude, 637m altitude gain over 9.4km •Passo di Costalunga, 1,745m altitude, 444m altitude gain over 10km

Venue: Cortina d’Ampezzo Italy’s premier mountain resort of Cortina d’Ampezzo is located in the heart of the UNESCO World Heritage Dolomites and is surrounded by spectacular high peaks. With clear air, sun, and crystal white snow it is a known stamping ground for the rich and famous during the ski season but for the rest of the year it caters for nature lovers, hikers, climbers and cyclists who swarm in to make the most of the activities on offer in this bustling mountain town. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 3 MERANO - BORMIO

151 KM / 4000 M+ / 3100 M-

With 151km to cover, this stage is classified as a marathon. Departing Merano at a low 325m altitude you will encounter gradients averaging 7% rising up to 12% at times along the first 18km to reach the Passo delle Palade at 1518m, before a descent to Cles. A long flat leads you to Fuicine at the base of the Passo del Tonale where you will begin a 16km climb averaging 6%. A 10km descent takes you to Ponte Legno at the foot of the imposing Passo Gavia, the third highest road pass in Italy and one of the wildest in the Alps. The 17.5km climb averages 8% and offers little respite with some stretches reaching 16%! The last 8km offers impressive cliff top views at over 2000m to Mont Gavia and the Corno dei Tre Signori. Be cautious with the first 10km downhill which is narrow and winding, after which you can glide into Bormio!

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Merano at 7.00am on Monday, 18th August •Arrive in Bormio from early afternoon •151km, including 117.5km that will be timed •4000m of elevation gain / 3100m of descent •5 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Passo Palade, 1518m altitude, 1199m altitude gain over 17.5km •Passo del Tonale, 1884m altitude,1199m altitude gain over 14.5km •Passo di Gavia, 2652m altitude, 1337m altitude gain over 17.5km

Venue: Merano Famous for its thermal spas the town of Merano and its historic arcades and promenades is blessed with a mild climate and striking alpine scenery. Nestled in the basin between valleys the snow capped mountains transform into lush pastures in summer offering extensive trails along the waterways and into the mountains.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 4 BORMIO PASSO DELLO STELVIO

21 KM / 1550 M+ / 0 M-

Be prepared for a shock! After the mammoth Passo di Gavia yesterday, you will today tackle the epic Stelvio Pass â&#x20AC;&#x201C; 21km against the clock! Rising up to 2758m from Bormio which sits at 1225m, do not be fooled by the average gradient of 7% because it will rise to 10% in the tangle of hairpin bends, particularly after the first 10km as it follows a wall on one side and on the other a far away valley. Willpower will be severely tested but try to enjoy this incredible moment if possible. The final bends are the most dangerous as the gradient rises to 12.1%. Even the strongest riders will be almost at a standstill after climbing 2000m for 6km! After a transfer from the top of the Stelvio you can enjoy an afternoon relaxing in St Moritz

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

•Depart Bormio on morning of Tuesday, 19th August •Arrive in Passo dello Stelvio early to mid-afternoon •21km, individual time trial •1550 m of elevation gain •1 refreshment point along the route

KEY FEATURES

ASCENT OF THE DAY •Ascent to Passo dello Stelvio, 2758m altitude, 1208m of alttitude gain over 21km Venue: Bormio Bormio sits at the foot of the hair raising Stelvio Pass on the western side of the Dolomites. A top ski resort in winter it has also been a popular destination for its thermal baths since the Roman Empire. With sweeping views, caves, mud baths, hot jets and thermal pools it is the base for many outdoor activities and boasts plentiful shops and restaurants.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 5 ST MORITZ â&#x20AC;&#x201C; ANDERMATT

175 KM / 3600 M+ / 4100 M-

A new backdrop in the Swiss Alps with wide roads, perfect asphalt and green landscapes - this stage is less brutal, however at 175km it is a marathon stage and at high altitude a lot of effort will be required. From St Moritz you pass Silverplana and start the ascent to the Julierpass at 2248m. Some demanding stretches reach 10% and there are 7km averaging 6.7%. Soon you will be storming the Lenzerheidepass with a 14km climb to the 1549m summit â&#x20AC;&#x201C; remember to breathe on the 20km descent to Chur! The 50km long valley gives a false uphill flat arriving at Disentis, the base of your final ascent to the Oberalp Pass at 2046m. With 20km to climb after a moderate start it becomes demanding in the last 6km including a ramp of 11%. By now you will understand why this stage is classified as 5 stars! Smile and head 11km downhill to Andermatt!

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

•Depart St Moritz at 7.00am on Wednesday, 20th August •Arrive in Andermatt from early afternoon •175km, including 170km that will be timed •3600m of elevation gain / 4100m of descent •5 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Julierpass, 2284m altitude, 469m altitude gain over 8km •Lenzerheidepass, 1549m altitude, 693m altitude gain over 14km •Oberalp Pass, 2046m altitude, 907m altitude gain over 20km

KEY FEATURES

Venue: St. Moritz As one of the oldest winter resorts, the elegant Swiss mountain village of St Moritz is famed for its celebrity and royal visitors throughout the winter months who come for the chic shops and restaurants, world class slopes and thermal springs. During the summer shimmering lakes and emerald forests transform the landscape and offer exceptional leisure activities.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 6 ANDERMATT CRANS-MONTANA

142 KM / 3100 M+ / 2350 M-

With 10km to warm up after leaving Andermatt, the ascent from Realp will lead you 12km up to the 2436m high Furkapass with averages of 8-9% touching more than 10% for 2km. Enjoy the breathtaking scenery from the top of the fourth highest road in Switzerland before the fast descent from Gletsch skirting the Rhone Glacier before you enter the long Rhone Valley with 100km to go. A short ascent to the Bratschpass will take you from 600m to 1095m in 7km along a narrow road overlooking Brig. At the foot of Crans-Montana is the â&#x20AC;&#x153;sunniest city in Switzerlandâ&#x20AC;?. Surrounded by vineyards, Sierre will test you in the heat with its 8% average for the first 2km. 14km through Veyras and Bluche you will face a drawn out 10% climb until you reach a long false flat into CransMontana at 1510m. One more day to go!

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Andermatt at 7.30am on Thursday, 21st August •Arrive in Crans-Montana from late morning •142km, including 37km that will be timed •3100m of elevation gain / 2350m of descent •4 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Furkapass, 2436m altitude, 897m altitude gain over 13km •Col de Bratsch, 1095m altitude, 426m altitude gain over 7.5km •Ascent of Crans-Montana, 1510m altitude, 950m altitude gain over 15.5km

Venue: Andermatt At the foot of the Oberalppass the Swiss town of Andermatt retains a certain charm with its preserved natural stone paving on the Gotthard road. It is the starting point for many mountain hikes and tours as well as being a popular winter ski destination, particularly to off piste skiers looking for fresh powder.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 7 CRANS-MONTANA - GENEVA

181 KM / 3000 M+ / 2700 M-

The final stretch - having conquered eight cols over 2000m high in a week you still have 181km from Crans-Montana to Geneva to go – 134km of which will be timed – before it’s time to party! The Swiss side of Pas de Morgins is a long 11km with a medium altitude of 1369m and reasonable slopes. At the top you will cross the Swiss-French border as you head to La Solitude. From here only 6km of climb remains, taking you up to the Col du Corbier at 1230m including a 10% ramp in the middle. Beware the fast and windy descent of Corbier to Seytroux. The race will terminate at Yvoire on the shores of Lake Geneva to allow the entire fleet to come together in a convoy for the arrival in Geneva where you finally get to celebrate your achievement!

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Crans-Montana at 7.00am on Friday, 22nd August •Arrive in Geneva from mid-afternoon •181km, including 85km that will be timed •3000m of elevation gain / 2700m of descent •3 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Pas de Morgins, 1369m altitude, 967m altitude gain over 15km •Col du Corbier, 1230m altitude, 370m altitude gain over 8km

Venue: Crans-Montana With panoramic views across to the Matterhorn and Mont Blanc, Crans-Montana is an upmarket Swiss resort open all year with extensive well groomed pistes, off-piste skiing and cross-country trails, as well as a championship golf course for summer visitors. Hiking and mountain biking are well catered for with marked trails and 16 obstacles graded by difficulty at the Kona Bike Park.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

South facing Alpe d’Huez is known for its sunny climate. The ‘island in the sun’ is a paradise for those who love pure mountain air and the great outdoors. As a year round resort, mountain sports are its raison d’être where skiing and snowboarding in winter are replaced with cycling and hiking during the summer months. It is situated near the border with Italy in the Ecrins National Park and within arm’s reach of Grenoble. As the centre stage for well-known events throughout the summer, athletes and tourists from around the world can step into the convivial and festive atmosphere in this natural theatre. The delights of the resort are complimented by superb modern infrastructures – visitors looking for sport and culture will be spoilt for choice with the numerous indoor and outdoor activities that are on offer. There is never a dull moment! Pic Blanc is the highest peak reaching 3,330m in altitude and offers a breathtaking panorama that has been awarded three stars in the Green Michelin guide. The outstanding views stretch over a fifth of French territory and can be reached via the Grandes Rousses cable car. SUMMER Home to the 21 legendary hairpin bends in the Tour de France, Alpe d’Huez also boasts 250 kilometres of mountain biking trails, 2,610m of vertical drop and nine chair/ cable lifts. This Oisans resort is without doubt one of the

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

largest playgrounds for keen cyclists looking to ride in an exceptional natural setting. The Tour de France has included this ascent 28 times, and the famous hairpin bends remain a spectacle in the event. Every year thousands of cyclists from all over the world, both professional and amateur, rise to the challenge of its 14.4 kilometres of ascent with its height difference of 1,120m. The record is 37 minutes and 35 seconds and the 2000 cyclists who make it to the top each year receive a diploma with their official time record in exchange for a Euro donation towards a charity called ‘Les Bébés du THE ASCENT TO ALPE D’HUEZ IN FIGURES Hairpin bends: 21 Departure altitude from Bourg d’Oisans: 717M Arrival altitude in Alpe d’Huez: 1,860m Vertical height difference: 1,121m Distance: 14.454km Average gradient: 7,9 % Maximum gradient: 14 % Record ascent time: 37’35’’, average speed 23,08 km/h Record set by Marco Pantani en 1997

Coeur” which helps young, often single, mothers who find themselves in difficult circumstances with their babies. Summer time in Alpe d’Huez is full of activities: fishing, climbing, white water rafting, canyoning, pony trekking, hiking and glacier walking. The streets are lined with excellent shops and it is renowned for its lively nightlife with plenty of bars, restaurants and nightclubs to entertain you until the early hours. WINTER The ski area, ‘Alpe d’Huez grand domaine Ski’, links up the resort villages of Auris-en-Oisans, Huez, Oz-enOisans, Vaujany, Villard-Reculas, La Garde and Le Freney. The village has developed significantly since 1936 and sits perched atop a full south-facing plateau at 1,860m altitude in the Grandes Rousses mountain range. There is an effective network of ski lifts spanning 800 hectares ensuring a wide range of difficulty and interest, with two dedicated beginner’s areas and 250 kilometres of ski runs accessible to all levels over a vertical drop of 2,210m. One summit, four slopes, almost 10,000m of height difference - Pic Blanc is the highest skiable point at 3,330m altitude. It is also the departure point of the five itineraries which add up to almost 10,000m of difference in altitude. There are many other outdoor activities throughout the

winter such as ice climbing, husky dog sledging, heliskiing, cross-country skiing and paraglading among many others. The excellent ‘après ski’ bars and lounges are popular with skiers at the end of a long day on the slopes. For more relaxing times the cinema and spa offer a gentle alternative.

SKI AREA IN FIGURES 250 km of slopes 2,200m of vertical drop 800 hectares 135 slopes (42 green, 37 blue, 39 red and 17 black) 80 ski lifts 2 snow parks 1 ski/boarders cross 1 night skiing slope 1 sledging slope 50km cross-country slopes 35km of pedestrian/hikers tracks

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Le contact privilégié de votre séjour

The best contact for your stay

Crédit photo : Laurent SALINO / Alpe d’Huez Tourisme

ALPE D’HUEZ RÉSERVATION

CONTACT resa@alpedhuez.com www.alpedhuez.com + 33 (0)4 76 11 59 90 68

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

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Increase your strength by 27%

Augmenter votre force de 27% (Med Sci Sports Exec 2005)

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Réduire votre acide lactique de 25%

Improve your VO2max by 7%

Améliorer votre VO2max de 7% (Neuro-Muscular Electrical Stimulation Training Enhances Maximal - Aerobic Capacity in Healthy Physically Active Adults - Domenico Crognale, Louis Crowe, Giuseppe DeVito, Conor Minogue, Member IEEE, and Brian Caulfield, Member IEEE)

(Warren CD, Brown LE, Landers MR, Stahura KA - Effect of three different between-inning recovery methods on baseball pitching performance - J Strength Cond Res. 2011 Mar; 25(3):683-8)

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Photo - SCOTT/DANIEL GEIGER

(Influence de la fréquence de stimulation neuromusculaire électrique de la jambe sur le débit artériel fémoral - Zicot M, Rigaux PF, 1995)

W W W. C O M P E X W I R E L E S S . C O M Le Compex Wireless est dédié à la stimulation des motoneurones de personnes en bonne santé afin d’améliorer / faciliter la performance musculaire, obtenir une relaxation des fibres musculaires et augmenter le débit sanguin. Il est destiné à la stimulation des nerfs sensoriels, afin d’obtenir des effets antalgiques. Ce dispositif médical est un produit de santé réglementé qui porte, au titre de cette Haute Route 2014 Official Guide réglementation, le marquage CE.

HAUTE ROUTE COMPACT OVERVIEW All good things come in small packages and the Haute Route Compact will be no exception. OC Sport is proud to present the Haute Route Compact – a three-day event starting from Geneva on Sunday, 24th August and finishing in Courchevel on Monday, 26th August. Riders will take on a timed Prologue and 2 timed stages, 260 kilometres, 7,000m of vertical gain and 6 Legendary French Alps ascents: Colombière, Croix Fry, Aravis, Saisies, Cormet de Roselend and the ascent to Courchevel. “This event will give new riders the opportunity to ‘test’ the Haute Route before committing to a full event and reassurance that this type of event is for them; and at the same time, offer our existing riders another shorter option if, for whatever reason, they can’t commit to a week-long event,” commented Race Director, Jean-Francois Alcan. “The Haute Route Compact may be shorter in duration but the riders will get to experience how tough this

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

timed event can be as they take on 260 km and six major cols and ascents in just 48 hours, not least the gruelling final climb to Courchevel at 1,850m. The Haute Route events are renowned as the world’s toughest and highest cyclosportives and this shorter version is built on the same DNA with the riders receiving the same excellent level of professional support.” The first edition of the Haute Route Compact will run concurrentlyalongside its ‘big brother’ the Haute Route Alps and riders will be among the peloton, sharing the same experience of ‘riding like a pro’ on two of the stages and meeting other riders at the daily briefings. With baggage transfers, mechanical, safety and medical support, refreshment points and massage – all they have to do is ride, refuel, recover – a great way to get a real insight into what the Haute Route is about.

ALPS COURSE OVERVIEW GENEVA - NICE | 904 KM The Haute Route Alps returns to its roots on Sunday, 24th August 2014 for the start of the fourth edition of this event between Geneva and Nice – the original host cities where it all began in 2011. The popularity of the Haute Route Alps remains strong this year, following a new ‘west line’ made up of 90% of new routes and climbing a total of 21,400m across 19 cols and ascents including four mountain top finishes. It will include many of the famous Alpine ‘giants’ with plenty of new territory and surprises in store for the riders.

The seven fully timed stages will revisit many Haute Route classics including Colombière, Cormet de Roselend, Courchevel, Madeleine, Glandon and two visits to Alpe d’Huez. Dominating the isolated southwest corner is the “Giant of Provence”, at 1,912m Mont Ventoux is one of the most legendary ascents in cycling and a climax in the 2014 Haute Route Alps. Another highlight is the double ascent of Alpe d’Huez which features on two days running as the arrival of the Marathon Stage on day three and again as the summit of the Individual Time Trial on day four.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

START: GENEVA Not only will Geneva host the start of the Haute Route Alps, it will also host the finish of the inaugural Haute Route Dolomites Swiss Alps starting from Venice eight days earlier, and the Haute Route Compact, a two day event giving riders a taste of the Haute Route experience. Among the many events that the city supports is the Harmony Geneva Marathon for Unicef, also organised by OC Sport. Framed by the mountain chains of the Alps and the Jura, and lying along the sparkling shores of Europe’s largest alpine lake with its famous Jet d’Eau water fountain, Geneva is a constant spectacle. With glimpses of the white summit of Mount Blanc 70 kilometres away to the southeast the mountains and lakes make it a hub for

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

winter and summer sporting activities. Manicured ski slopes in winter are replaced by lush pastures in summer and cyclists, walkers and water sports enthusiasts replace the seasonal skiers and snowboarders. Both cosmopolitan and rich in history it is one of Europe’s busiest business destinations – a global city whose many different nationalities are reflected in those of the Haute Route peloton. Home to the headquarters of many international agencies including the United Nations and the Red Cross, Geneva also hosts the highest number of financial organisations in the world yet still remains unspoilt and strongly preserves its unique architectural charm.

FINISH: NICE On Saturday, 30th August the Haute Route Alps will finish on the Promenade des Anglais in the Alpes-Maritimes city of Nice, France. Sandwiched between the dramatic scenery of the mountains and the sparkling sea, the colourful and sunny port is rich in maritime history and culture, offering museums, cafes and parks as well as the alluring blue seas and beaches of the Mediterranean coastline. Scarcely changed since the 1700’s Vieux Nice, the old town, is home to a thriving flower and food market with bars, boutiques and delicatessens crammed into the narrow lanes. Alongside the development model of an Eco-Valley in the area Nice has seized the opportunity to become a cycle city, with plans to develop a complete network of cycle tracks, 155 kilometres of which have already been completed in the Métropole Nice Côte d’Azur area, placing Nice at the top of a list of cities that successfully combine innovation, respect for the environment and quality of life.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 1 GENEVA - MEGÈVE

130 KM / 3100 M+ / 2350 M-

Heading out of Geneva the gentle ascent under the pines from Cluses may lull you into thinking it is straightforward but be prepared for the last 6km from Reposoir with rises of 8-10% before you reach the 1618m summit at the Col de la Colombiere. Pace yourself on the 20km downhill via Le Grand Bornand to Thones in anticipation of the first set of turns to Chenaillon and the ascent to the 1477m La Croix Fry which starts gently until it passes Manigot village where it reaches 10%. Nearing the end is a rapid descent onto Route des Aravis followed by only 5km of ascent to the summit of the Col des Aravis standing at 1487m. Restore yourself on the long downhill to Flumet before ascending again to finish at Megève, hopefully with enough energy left for the rest of the week’s challenges.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Geneva at 07:15am on Sunday, 24th August •Arrive in Megève from late morning •130km including 84km that will be timed •3100m of elevation gain / 2350m of descent •4 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col de la Colombière, 1618m altitude, 1116m altitude gain over 15.2km •Col de la Croix Fry, 1477m altitude, 851m altitude gain over 12.3km •Col des Aravis, 1487m altitude, 266m altitude gain over 6.2km

Venue: Geneva Lying along the sparkling shores of Europe’s largest lake, Geneva acts as the gateway to the Alps. A hub for outdoor activities from the water to the mountains it is also home to the HQ for the United Nations and is a cosmopolitan, vibrant city with a rich culture and colourful history, famous for its immaculate timekeeping.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 2 MEGÈVE - COURCHEVEL

130 KM / 3900 M+ / 3250 M-

130km connect Megève with Courchevel – two of the most exclusive resorts in the French Alps. Keeping a steady pace is not easy on the irregular slope up to the Col des Saisies at 1650m, however, you will be rewarded at the top with breathtaking views of Mont Blanc. Heading downhill and across the Beaufort Valley before climbing the Cormet de Roselend you will be sheltered by pines on the first 12km to Col de Meraillet which averages 8%. After this you skirt the picturesque Roselend Dam before climbing the final 8km to the Cormet de Roselend at 1967m. Take care on the descent of the Cormet with its hidden traps – the cause of many previous collisions. From Bonneval and Bourg-Saint-Maurice you have a 50km descent to Moûtiers before climbing 25km at a steady 6% maximum. Above the Olympic ski jumps at Le Praz you will then encounter 2km at 10% before you arrive in Courchevel with 3900m elevation under your wheels today.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

•Depart Megève at 07:30am on Monday, 25th August •Arrive in Courchevel from late morning •130km to cover, including 105km that will be timed •3900m of elevation gain / 3250m of descent •5 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col des Saisies, 1650m altitude, 730m altitude gain over 15.5km •Col du Cormet de Roselend, 1967m altitude, 1167m altitude gain over 20km •Ascension de Courchevel, 1850m altitude, 1369m altitude gain over 25km

KEY FEATURES

Venue: Megève With breath-taking views of Mont Blanc the exclusive ski resort of Megève is one of Europe’s finest. Authentically French, it is nicknamed the 21st arrondissement of Paris and has always been a coveted destination for its skiing and gastro restaurants. Besides the winter ski season it is a popular area for hiking and cycling in summer with its spectacular setting and pure mountain air, and it hosts the cyclosportive Time Megève Mont-Blanc in June. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 3 COURCHEVEL - ALPE D'HUEZ

137 KM / 4650 M+ / 4100 M-

With a nod to the three giants of the Alps this 137km is a “marathon stage”. Downhill from Courchevel to Aigueblanche the timer starts as you climb 28km to Col de la Madeleine which varies between 7-10% including some downhill. From the 1933m summit don your windbreaker for the fast 20km descent. Pass La Maurienne and on to La Chambre where you begin the 21km ascent with a demanding final 3km averaging 10% with passages of 13% before you reach Col du Glandon – one of the toughest in the Alps. The descent along the Grand Maison dam has some formidable hairpin bends and a short uphill section at the parade Maupas. After the long descent to the Verney Dam you will climb steeply from 700m to 1500m at VillardReculas after which you take the narrow Combe du Bras into the village of Huez at 1420m. From Huez, you have just 7 bends and 5km to the finish you have been dreaming of.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Courchevel at 07:30am on Tuesday, 26th August •Arrive in Alpe d’Huez from early afternoon •137km, including 113km that will be timed •4650m of elevation gain / 4100m of descent •4 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col de la Madeleine, 1993m altitude, 800m of altitude gain over 12km •Col du Glandon, 1924m altitude, 824m of altitude gain over 10km •Ascent to Alpe d’Huez, 1850m altitude, 347m of altitude gain over 6km

Venue: Courchevel Located in the Savoie, the chic ski resort of Courchevel in Les Trois Vallées is home to one of the most distinguished and largest ski areas in the world with its well-groomed slopes and glitzy bars and restaurants. In summer it provides the perfect setting for every outdoor activity imaginable as well as the Cyclo’Courch where cyclists can challenge Alejandro Valverde’s record ascent which still stands at 42’30”. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 4 BOURG D’OISANS L’ALPE D’HUEZ

15 KM / 1100 M+ / 0 M-

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

The clock will be ticking from the start of today’s individual time trial from Bourg d’Oisans to L’Alpe d’Huez, scaling 1,100m over 15km – an average gradient of 8% but hitting 10% at times. You are only racing against yourself today so save some reserves for the next 3 long stages and don’t forget to warm up in the flat valley of Bourg d’Oisans before your departure. The first 4km of wide road rises at more than 10% which can be tough with the hot sun reflecting off the rock face. Enjoy the 21 legendary bends that take you to the top – they are relatively flat compared to the rest of the climb so you can use them to your advantage to recover a little each time.

KEY FEATURES •Start Bourg d’Oisans at 09:00am on Wednesday, 27th August •Arrive in Alpe d’Huez early to mid-afternoon •15km, individual time trial •1,100m ascent •2 refreshment points along the route

ASCENT OF THE DAY •Ascent to Alpe d’Huez, 1860m altitude, 1100m of altitude gain over 15km

Venue: Alpe d’Huez With 21 hairpin bends to reach the summit, the prestigious Alpe d’Huez is as famed for cycling as it is skiing and shares a close association with the Tour de France. The predominantly south facing ski slopes give it a sunny reputation and being situated in the heart of the Massif des Grandes Rousses it offers stunning views of the Ecrins National Park, the Belledonne chain and Mont Blanc.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 5 BOURG D’OISANS DIGNE-LES-BAINS

187 KM / 2900 M+ / 3000 M-

For stage 5 you have 187km to cover (of which 162km will be timed) from Bourg d’Oisans to Digne-les-Bains, the latter of which welcomes the Haute Route Alps for the first time and where you will spend two nights. Ease yourself up the long and gentle ascent of rural Ornon before venturing onwards up to little known Col de Parquetout which stands at only 1398m. On a small road over Valbonnais you turn back to the Ecrins mountain range and climb 8km over a gradient of more than 10% with some extreme turns. With the most challenging part of the day behind you it is now up and down between La Mure and Corps and after the Saint-Disdier dam you have a relatively gentle 10km at 4% average up to Col du Festre at 1441m. Here you are only half way but enjoy the flat run along the Buech, the Durance and the Bléone before arriving in Digne-les-Bains.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Bourg d’Oisans at 07:00am on Thursday, 28th August •Arrive in Digne-les-Bains from early afternoon •187km, including 162km that will be timed •2900m of elevation gain / 3000m of descent •5 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col d’Ornon 1371m altitude, 639m altitude gain over 10.5km •Col de Parquetout, 1398m altitude, 661m altitude gain over 6.5km •Col du Festre, 1441m altitude, 411m altitude gain over 10km •Col d’Espréaux, 1160m altitude, 326 metres altitude gain over 11km

© Office de Tourisme de Bourg d’Oisans Venue: Bourg d’Oisans Situated in the valley of the Romanche River the sleepy town of Bourg d’Oisans sits at the foot of Alpe d’Huez. During the summer months it comes alive as cyclists from around the world base themselves here to explore the local mountains and valleys. A popular cycling mecca which caters for the industry, it is also the starting point for the classic time trial up to Alpe d’Huez with its famous 21 hairpin bends. . Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 6 DIGNE-LES-BAINS MONT VENTOUX

145 KM / 3050 M+ / 1800 M-

After a sharp right out of Digne, head west for 100km towards the snowy peak of Mont Chauve. The ascent up to the Col of Notre Dame des Abeilles takes you into the heart of Ventoux country, up a long and wide road averaging 4% with some surprising rises. From the top is a straight and fast descent before the real work begins. Continue from Bedoin until you reach a 9km wall at Saint EstĂ¨ve where the pines will offer you shade but no respite as every metre will test you at 9% increasing to 10-11%, undoubtedly the most physically demanding section of the week lasting at least an hour. Close to the Chalet Reynard and out of the woods you have 7km to climb over a lunar landscape of limestone rock, perhaps with the strong mistral wind against you. The last 2km average 10% before you can celebrate your arrival at the summit of the legendary Mont Ventoux at 1912m.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Digne-les-Bains on Friday, 29th of August •Arrive in Alpe d’Huez from early afternoon •145km, including 136.7m that will be timed •3050m of elevation gain/ 1800m of descent •4 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col Notre Dame des Abeilles, 996m altitude, 315m altitude gain over 8.5km •Mont Ventoux, 1912m altitude, 1596m altitude gain over 21km

Venue: Digne-les-Bains The capital of the Alpes de Haute Provence, Dignes-lesBains lies in an area of geological richness where Provence meets the Alps. Famed for its thermal springs and lavender trade, it is also home to the largest geological reserve in Europe, the Réserve Naturelle Géologique de Haute Provence, with fossils dating back 300 million years. The Haute Route will visit Digne for the first time staying for two nights. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 7 DIGNE-LES-BAINS - NICE

160 KM / 2700 M+ / 3300 M-

Congratulations, you are on the final stage of the Haute Route Alps! The finish is within sight and you still have 160km to cover but only 108km will be timed. At the exit of Digne begin the 12km ascent to the Col de Corobin with a 6% average. Head to the Col des Lèques at 1146m and pass Castellane before starting a long but medium slope of 4% up to Col de Saint-Barnabé. Keep motivated as you continue along the narrow pass road to Col de Bleine at 1439m before the final peak at Vence at only 962m altitude. Take care on the descent as the week’s efforts will have caught up with you. Savour the glory of the finish as you ride in convoy into Nice where the famous Promenade des Anglais and the sparkling Mediterranean Sea await you.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Digne-les-Bains at 07:30am on Saturday, 30th August •Arrive in Nice from mid-afternoon •160km, including 108km that will be timed •2700m of elevation gain / 3300m of descent •4 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col du Corobin, 1211m altitude, 546m altitude gain over 12km •Col des Lèques, 1146m altitude, 337m altitude gain over 6.5km •Col de Saint-Barnabé, 1365m altitude, 480m altitude gain over 10km •Col de Bleine, 1439m altitude, 406m altitude gain over 6km •Col de Vence, 962m altitude, 289 metres altitude gain over 13km

Venue: Nice Exceptionally located on the Mediterranean coastline in the Alpes-Maritimes, Nice offers sunshine, sparkling seas and colourful markets. Rich in maritime culture and architecture it has plenty of museums, cafes and parks to explore. The Old Town is a must as are the beaches which are the perfect temperature for a swim at Castel Plage on the Baie des Anges after the finish of the Haute Route along the Promenade des Anglais. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

The capital of the Alpes de Haute Provence, Digne-lesBains lies in an area rich in geology, sitting beside the fast flowing Bléone River and surrounded by forests. With over 300 days of sun each year Digne is famed for its agreeable climate, thermal springs and lavender trade. Digne is where the mountainous Alps meet the plains of Provence and is home to the largest geological reserve in Europe, the Réserve Naturelle Géologique de Haute Provence, with fossils dating back 300 million years. It is the centre for various laboratories, libraries and exhibitions, and the nearby Dalle aux Ammonites is a slab of rock dating back 200 million years and contains over 1,500 ammonites reaching up to 70cm diameter. Discover more at the Musée Promenade which is also home to an extraordinary butterfly garden with 124 species to be found.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

The thermal springs give Digne-les-Bains its name and have been popular since Roman times. The modern baths were reopened in 1982 with water supplied by the Vallon des Eaux-Chaudes 3km southeast of the town and have 8 hot springs and 1 cold one flowing from the Saint Pancarace cliffs. With temperatures starting at 42°C they are sought after for their health benefits, particularly for respiratory conditions and rheumatism, and attract more than 8,000 people each year. Lavender abounds along the Provencal roads surrounding Digne which is one of the principle regions for the trade. In August the lavender harvest is celebrated with the Corso de Lavender, a colourful festival half a century old which is celebrated annually with elaborate floats and concerts.

Rich in history and culture there are many interesting places to visit in Digne: Notre-Dame du Bourg, a Romanesque cathedral whose foundations date back to the ninth century is a worthwhile visit whilst the relatively modern Digne Cathedral is a national monument. The Gassendi Museum and Cairn Centre d’Art house a large number of art collections in addition to some fascinating scientific and archaeological exhibitions, and you can visit some exciting local projects created in cooperation with Andy Goldsworthy and Herman de Vries. Alexandra David-Néel, the explorer and spiritualist chose to settle in Digne and her former home is now a museum documenting her unusual life.

A popular base for cyclists, Digne-les-Bains is one of the first cities in France to obtain the label “Ville et Territoire Vélotouristique” delivered by the French Federation of Cycloturism (FFCT) and offers a “VTT FFC” area meaning it provides all equipment, services and activities to support the cyclists that flock to the area each year to take on the challenge of the infamous Mont Ventoux, which lies just over 150 kilometres away through beautiful scenery and vineyards. At 1,912m Mont Ventoux is known as the ‘Giant of Provence’ and its isolated position in the southwest part of the Alps ensures that it dominates the entire region. It is one of the most mythical ascents of the cycling planet and a highlight for cyclists.

For those wanting to potter there are many enjoyable restaurants and shops along the tree lined Boulevard Gassendi and a market every Saturday in town. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Photos : Cyrille de VillĂ¨le / Conception : Aline Lajoie / Ville de Digne-les-Bains

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

PYRENEES COURSE OVERVIEW BARCELONA - ANGLET | 778 KM After the success of the inaugural edition of the Haute Route Pyrenees in 2013, the 2014 route returns to Barcelona in Spain as the launchpad of the seven stages which take the cyclists to the finish in Anglet on the French Basque Coast. Between the sea and the ocean, the first and last stage will cross Spanish terrain whilst the other five stages will roll across France. With 80% of new terrain and climbs, the riders will be blown away by the dramatic natural landscapes and testing ascents that will force them outside of their comfort zones. Iron Rider and cancer survivor James Golding, who took part in both the Alps and Pyrenees last year, claimed at the finish: “I’ve always seen the Alps as my wife, but the Pyrenees is now my mistress!” Departing the start host city of Barcelona on Monday 1st September the race will cover 778 kilometres with climbs totaling 18,300m, 21 Pyrenean cols and ascents,

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

3 mountain top finishes and 7 timed stages including an individual time trial on the infamous Col du Tourmalet. In fact one of the key highlights for 2014 is the double ascent of the 2117m high Tourmalet – the ‘Giant of the Pyrenees’. Riders will climb to the top for the first time during Stage 4, and again a day later in an epic individual time trial starting in Luz-Saint-Sauveur and finishing at the summit. Despite the Pyrenees being lower in altitude than the Alps and Dolomites they are not to be underestimated with their steep and narrow passes and dramatic ascents. The route rediscovers the legendary ascents of Tourmalet, Peyresourde, Soulor and Aubisque and introduces new challenges such as, Port de Pailhères, Ax 3 Domaines, Hourquette d’Ancizan and Marie-Blanque.

START: BARCELONA

FINISH: ANGLET BASQUE COAST

The Haute Route Event village located on Barcelona’s Mediterranean shores will provide a perfect setting to inspire the riders for what lays ahead. From the Mediterranean Sea to the wooded hills, Barcelona is a colourful haze of culture and energy and a perfect city to explore by bicycle.

After seven days of winding through the picturesque mountain passes and villages of France and Spain the Haute Route Pyrenees will arrive in the coastal resort of Anglet on Sunday, 7th September 2014. Situated in classic Basque country with dramatic mountain scenery, lush pastures and rugged shores, the area is popular with cyclists looking to conquer the likes of Tourmalet and Aubisque with their exhilarating climbs, and is familiar with the Tour de France with which it has a long standing connection.

Throughout the city the bars, cafes and restaurants are packed with locals and tourists year round as the local chefs whip up gastronomic feasts. Day and night the tree lined pedestrian boulevard, La Rambla, brims with performers and streetwalkers whilst the winding alleys in the quieter Ciutat Vella (Old City) offer trendy tapas bars, boutiques and a superb nocturnal vibe. The historical Spanish port city is the capital of Catalonia, a region which has its own language, history and traditions. It is home to world class museums filled with classics by Picasso and Miro, and around every street corner is a heady mix of gothic and modern architecture with flamboyant works by Antoni Gaudi that include the awe inspiring basilica of Sagrada Familia. With sandy beaches in summer and snowy mountains nearby in winter, Barcelona is a popular sporting destination and with a football mad population it is also home to one of the largest football stadiums in the world. For good reason Barcelona is one of the world’s leading tourist destinations and in 1992 the city hosted the Olympic Games, sealing its reputation as one of the world’s outstanding sporting, cultural and touristic destinations.

Steeped in tradition the French Basque country is famous for its culture, history and particularly its gastronomy with many local dishes drawing on the fresh fish and seafood from the coast and the chilli peppers that are grown in the rolling green hills of the area. Characterised by tamarisk and hydrangeas the resort basks along the 4.5 kilometres of sandy shores in the south east corner of the Bay of Biscay, a haven for cyclists and surfers, and in winter it serves as a popular base camp for skiers preparing themselves for the rugged ridges and precarious cols of the Pyrenees. When the ski season comes to an end and the mountain passes open up to cyclists, Anglet itself is a popular base for visitors looking to explore the nearby mountains and also caters more locally for all levels with 18km of cliff top trails running along the waterfront and wooded paths through the Pignada and Lazaret forests. For families nothing beats the flat trails along the Adour and Nive rivers. Anglet is the perfect town to host the finish of the Haute Route Pyrenees after a week of epic cycling. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 1 RIPOLL - FONT-ROMEU

93 KM / 2500 M+ / 1400 M-

The true starting point of this stage is the Catalan town of Ripoll, however you will be transported to the start by bus 100km to Barcelona which will position you directly in the mountains at 700m where you can warm up on the first day. The first challenge of the week is a gently sloping wide road up to 1090m taking you to the Coll de la Merolla. From here you move on to La Pobla de Lillet, “base camp” of Port de la Creueta which rises 20km to 1,888m. A long descent takes you past the famous ski resort of La Molina before a quiet road to Puigcerdà near the small town of Bourg Madame where you cross the French border. A long but gradual climb takes you to Font-Romeu at 1750m – make sure to conserve your energy for the rest of the week.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Ripoll at 10:30am on Monday, 1st September •Arrive in Font-Romeu from early afternoon •93km, including 88km that will be timed •2500m of elevation gain / 1400m of descent •3 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Coll de Merolla, 1090m altitude, 340m altitude gain over 13km •Coll de la Creueta, 1888m altitude, 574m altitude gain over 21.5km •Ascent to Font-Romeu, 1750m altitude, 486m altitude gain over 9.8km

Venue: Ripoll At the Spanish-French border is the medieval town of Ripoll which is known as the birth place of Catalonia. Surrounded by coal mines the small industrial town sits at the junction of the Rio Freser and the Rio Ter, and is home to one of Spain’s finest works of Romanesque art, a 12th century stone doorway adorning the Benedictine monastery of Santa Maria which dates back to 879 AD.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 2 FONT-ROMEU - AX 3 DOMAINES

120 KM / 3000 M+ / 3400 M-

A gentle warm up with lots of downhill in the first few kilometres out of Font-Romeu takes you through a magnificent landscape before the short 3km ascent to Col des Moulis followed by a longer 10km climb at 6% average up to the top of Col du Garabeil at 1262m. From the Pyrenees Orientales to AriĂ¨ge you will arrive at the base of the massive Port de PailhĂ¨res standing at 2001m. The slopes are rough with 8% average over 15km from Usson les Bains with little respite and steep sections reaching 11-12%, the last 3km are particularly tough with possible head winds near the top. Enjoy the incredible panorama before the tortuous descent to Ax les Thermes at the foot of the final climb. With 110km under your wheels you will need plenty of energy to tackle the 8km slopes which average 8.5% taking you up to the 1378m altitude finish at Ax 3 Domaines.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Font-Romeu at 8:00am on Tuesday, 2nd September •Arrive in Ax 3 Domaines from early afternoon •120km to cover, including 120km that will be timed •3000m of elevation gain / 3400m of descent •3 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col des Moulis, 1099m altitude, 154m altitude gain over 2.6km •Col du Garabeil, 1262m altitude, 222m altitude gain over 3.8km •Col du Port de Pailhères, 2001m altitude, 1207m altitude gain over 14.9km •Ascent to Ax 3 Domaines, 1378m altitude, 670m altitude gain over 8.4km

Venue: Font-Romeu Over 3,000 hours of sun every year make Font-Romeu in the Cerdagne region the sunniest place in France. As one of the oldest ski resorts in the country it is sheltered in the lee of a pine forest, protecting it from northerly winds and offering clear mountain air. Sought after for its health benefits, it also has excellent recreational facilities with swimming, skating, horse riding and hiking on offer.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 3 AX LES THERMES BAGNÈRES-DE-LUCHON

162 KM / 2550 M+ / 2600 M-

Leave Ax les Thermes before the timing starts at the foot of Col de Port, head through the Ariège valley and Couserans which are regular with 10km stretches at less than 6% average. The 18km to Portet d’Aspet is a gentle 3% average gradient which becomes gradually steeper and rises to 10% in the last 2km after the village of Saint-Lary. Take great care on the descent which is very fast with sharp bends. A fast ride through the Ger de Boutx valley takes you to the base of Col de Menté where the climb is set amongst fir trees on a 7km regular slope with 8% average. Again take care on the fast descent with its deceptively tight turns. Coast along to Saint-Béat and onwards for 15km on the flat to Bagnères-de-Luchon where you can recover in anticipation of tomorrow’s challenging stage.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Ax les Thermes at 07:30am on Wednesday, 3rd September •Arrive in Bagnères-de-Luchon from early afternoon •162km, including 133km that will be timed •2550m of elevation gain / 2600m of descent •4 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col de Port, 1249m altitude, 450m of altitude gain over 8km •Col du Portet d’Aspet, 1070m altitude, 397m of altitude gain over 6km •Col de Menté, 1349m altitude, 449m of altitude gain over 6km

Venue: Ax les Thermes Situated in the valley close to Andorra in the Pyrenees, Ax les Thermes stands at the confluence of the Oriège, Ariège and Lauze rivers. As the name suggests the town is renowned for its hot thermal springs used by the Romans, which nowadays is the mainstay of tourism to the spa town when it isn’t catering for the ski industry higher up the mountain.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

S TA G E 4 BAGNÈRES-DE-LUCHON ARGELÈS-GAZOST

119 KM / 3600 M+ / 3800 M-

Just out of Bagnères-de-Luchon you face a 900m climb over 15km with the last hairpin bends reaching up to 8-9% gradient until you reach Col de Peyresourde at 1569m. From here is a gentle descent to Arreau and a long stretch through the Aure valley arriving at the foot of the picturesque Hourquette d’Ancizan where a steep start takes you up 11km at an 8% average through the woods to 1564m. Look out for cows on the road! The descent to Sainte-Marie de Campan brings you to the foot of the notorious Col du Tourmalet standing at 2,117m. A relentless 1270m climb over 17km to Gripp is just the beginning before traversing the resort of La Mongie with 9-10% gradient over 4km. A narrow causeway rising to 8-9% finally brings you to the summit. The descent is long, steep and fast with some rough surfaces - continue downhill and on the flat via Barèges ski resort to the finish in Argelès-Gazost.

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Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Bagnères-de-Luchon at 08:00am on Thursday, 4th September •Arrive in Argelès-Gazost in the afternoon •119km, including 117km that will be timed •3,600m elevation gain / 3,800m total descent •4 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Ascent to Col de Peyresourde, 1569m altitude, 900m of altitude gain over 15km •Ascent to Col de Hourquette d’Ancizan, 1564m altitude, 700m of altitude gain over 11km •Ascent of Col du Tourmalet, 2117m altitude, 1270m of altitude gain over 17km

Venue: Bagnères-de-Luchon The 48 thermal springs of Bagnères-de-Luchon make it a popular destination for those seeking a health boost and relaxation. Due to its location amongst some of the most famous cols, it’s the heart of Pyrenees cycling in the summer months and has often hosted the Tour de France. It’s also an excellent base for skiing, mountain biking and walking..

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

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S TA G E 5 COL DU TOURMALET

18.5 KM / 1500 M+ / 0 M-

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Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

Only 18.5km today but itâ&#x20AC;&#x2122;s up the Col du Tourmalet again, this time on the western side and against the clock. Warm up on the road to the Cirque de Gavarnie from LuzSaint-Sauveur which is quiet and flat. The first third of the climb to BarĂ¨ges seems pretty easy with an average gradient of 7%, however this is followed by a tough 9km not dipping below 8-9% to the summit on rough roads and with views of the top obstructed by rocks. Save some energy for the last kilometre which hits 10.5% before you can rejoice at the top having climbed the col for the second time in 24 hours.

KEY FEATURES •Depart Luz-Saint-Sauveur at 09:00am on Friday, 5th September •Arrive at the top of Tourmalet •18,5km, including 18.5km that will be timed •1500m of elevation gain •1 refreshment point along the route

ASCENT OF THE DAY •Col du Tourmalet, 2117m altitude, 1500 metres altitude gain over 18.5km

Venue: Luz-Saint-Sauveur Above the slate rooftops of picturesque Luz-Saint-Sauveur is the breathtaking view of the snow covered mountain peaks that encircle the town. Nestled in the valley with the Pierrefitte gorge cutting it off from the north, it has a splendid feeling of isolation whilst being only a half hour drive from Lourdes. Preserved in tradition and retaining its charm, it’s a popular base for skiing, cycling and exploring the local area. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

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S TA G E 6 ARGELÈS-GAZOST ST-JEAN-PIED-DE-PORT

150 KM / 3350 M+ / 3600 M-

A 150km marathon stage from Argelès where you will immediately tackle Col du Soulor at 1474m starting with a 4km ascent at 7%, an 8km plateau then a 7km climb of 8-11% to the peak. The Cirque du Litor leads you 10km across an incredible ridge to the summit of Col d’Aubisque at 1709m. Although it is wide and risky, enjoy the descent down to Gourette. From Louvie Jouzon is a 3km climb of 8-9% which eases with the next 7km to Col de Marie Blanque, a 300m vertical drop in a beautiful forest setting. The west side descent has a reputation so take care. Recover through the Soule and don’t be fooled by the 4.5% average up to Col d’Ahusquy at 1078m - the first kilometre of this is 11%, however it softens for the final stretch through the Irati Forest. Descend towards Mendive and onwards to finish in SaintJean-Pied-de-Port in Basque Country. The end of your Pyrenean adventure is in sight.

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Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Argelès-Gazost at 07:30am on Saturday, 6th September •Arrive in Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port from early aternoon •150km, including 137km that will be timed •3350m of elevation gain / 3600m of descent •5 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col du Soulor, 1474m altitude, 967m altitude gain over 18.5km •Col d’Aubisque, 1709m altitude, 240m altitude gain over 10km •Col de Marie-Blanque, 1035m altitude, 577m altitude gain over 11.5km •Col d’Ahusquy, 1078m altitude, 833m altitude gain over 14.5km

Venue: Argelès-Gazost Strategically located at the foot of the Aubisque and the Tourmalet – two of the most legendary Tour de France climbs – the village of Argelès-Gazost is situated in the heart of the valley that shares its name. Rich in heritage, with many historical buildings and ruins, it’s a charming spa town with a bustling market and plenty of restaurants and cafes, and serves as a base for walkers and cyclists enjoying the Hautes-Pyrénées département... Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

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S TA G E 7 ST-JEAN-PIED-DE-PORT ANGLET BASQUE COAST

115 KM / 1800 M+ / 1900 M-

The final day sees you riding through Navarre and the French Basque Country, returning to Spain for the last 115km of this week long adventure. Although the mountains are not very high the challenge is no less difficult. After Saint-Étienne-de-Baïgorri you will climb 8km at a 6% average up to the 672m Col d’Ispéguy where you cross into Spain and ride downhill before the short climb of Col d’Oxtxondo gaining 352m in altitude over 8.5km. A short passage takes you through France again near Sare before you head back into Iberian territory via Vera de Bidaoa to finish your journey via Col d’Ibardin, a 6km ascent to 317m. From here the timer stops and the last 30km will be in convoy to your final destination, Anglet on the French Basque Coast and the Atlantic Ocean.

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Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

KEY FEATURES •Depart Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port at 08:30am on Sunday, 7th September •Arrive in Anglet Basque from mid-afternoon •115km, including 74km that will be timed •1800m of elevation gain / 1900m of descent •3 refreshment points along the route

ASCENTS OF THE DAY •Col d’Ispéguy, 672m altitude, 509m altitude gain over 8km •Col d’Oxtxondo, 602m altitude, 352m altitude gain over 8.5km •Col d’Ibardin, 317m altitude, 327m altitude gain over 6km

Venue: Saint-Jean-Pied-de-Port Famous for its part in the pilgrimage to Santiago de Compostela, the small fortified town of Saint-Jean-Piedde-Port stands at the base of the Roncevaux Pass across the Pyrenees. Whitewashed houses overhang the river and tiny cobbled streets wind their way up to the citadel. Small but bustling markets, restaurants, cafes and shops give it a lively feel day and night.

Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

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ARGÈLES-GAZOST A PYRENEAN VILLAGE

Strategically located at the foot of the Aubisque and the Tourmalet, two of the most legendary climbs in the Tour de France, the village of Argelès-Gazost is situated in the heart of the valley bearing the same name whose magnificent landscapes and natural surroundings have built its reputation and delighted mountain visitors for years. With its unique location it serves as the base for a wide variety of popular routes for hiking and cycling and caters year round for summer and winter sports enthusiasts. A well-known spa town since the 19th Century, ArgelèsGazost is bursting with character and charm. Rich in heritage there are many historical gems around the town such as the towers of Vieuzac (13th century), of Mendaigne (14th Century), and the castle of Ourout (13th and 15th centuries). Hidden among the cobbled streets are numerous fountains and 19th century villas and the nearby thermal baths offer a wide range of treatments to while away the time for those seeking the ultimate in relaxation.

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Gastronomic delights can be found in the busy restaurants and bistros which serve authentic local cuisine, and the shops cater year round for visitors including skiers and cyclists. The local honey and cheese are popular and can be found at the weekly market which has been running every Tuesday since 1292. Perfectly located at the start of the Pyrenean National Park, near the waterfalls at le Pont d’Espagne and only 15 minutes from the ski station Hautacam, the heart of Argelès-Gazost beats in time with the seasons. Brimming with flora and fauna the area offers a wealth of summer activities in a beautiful setting, including walking and riding, paragliding, climbing, rafting and mountain biking among others. In winter it caters for the ski industry including alpine skiing in Hautacam with beautiful pistes winding across the forest, or Nordic ski on the groomed slopes at 1,700m. For those after a gentler pace there is snowshoeing, and for the adventurous there is the “mountain luge” a 700 metre rollercoaster of toboggan runs – a unique Pyrenean attraction running all year.

At the heart of the fourth and fifth stages of the Haute Route Pyrenees and famous in the world of cycling, Argelès-Gazost and the Tourmalet enjoy their reputation which has seen them established as a regular Pyrenean stage during the Grande Boucle. Tourmalet is the highest road in the Pyrenees, located between the villages of Barèges and la Mongie and the Pic du Midi. It is a legend in the Tour de France being the most climbed with 78 climbs since 1910. In 2010 for the first time riders climbed it twice in both directions to celebrate the 100th anniversary of the first mountain ascent of the Tour de France.

At the top is the statue of Le Géant du Tourmalet, which is a tribute to Octave Lapiz who was the first to finish on 21st July 1910 having battled with unpaved roads and single geared bikes in a battle between Luchon and Bayonne, cycling 325 kilometres and winning the stage in 14 hours 10 minutes. With breathtaking views from the height of the mountains to the lush green valleys and mountain lakes, ArgelèsGazost offers everything through summer and winter, peace and tranquility, action and adventure.

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BLUE MARINE FOUNDATION (BLUE) IS A UK REGISTERED CHARITY SET UP IN 2010 BY THE TEAM BEHIND THE AWARD WINNING DOCUMENTARY FILM “THE END OF THE LINE” - GEORGE DUFFIELD, CHARLES CLOVER AND CHRIS GORELL BARNES.

Historically and today, OC Sport's projects have a strong link to water, whether they are taking place on the water, like the Extreme Sailing Series™, or off the water, such as the Haute Route Alps™ that starts from the shores of Lake Geneva and ends on the French Riviera. BLUE is a global partner to OC Sport, and exists to fix the largest solvable problem on the planet - the crisis in the oceans. Until fairly recently, people regarded the oceans as being of such vast scale and unfathomable depths that they were virtually impervious to human activities. More recently, however, disturbing evidence has surfaced to show that our impacts on the seas have the potential to be as damaging as on land. From persistent overfishing to plastic pollution; from the worrying decline in coral reef health worldwide to the threat of ocean acidification linked with climate change; the range of threats to our precious marine habitats is greater than ever before. And arguably it is those who rely on the seas for their recreation and adventure who should also be at the vanguard of the battle to protect these special environments for future generations. The need for conservation is clear. BLUE’s mission is to increase the percentage of ocean under active and effective protection to at least 10 per cent by 2020. When the charity was created in 2010, just one per cent was under adequate protection. Through the efforts of BLUE and its peers, this figure has already risen to 2.8 per cent. BLUE projects alone are already protecting an area of sea more than twice the size of the UK. The charity’s flagship initiatives include the creation of one of the world’s largest marine reserves in the Chagos Archipelago in

the Indian Ocean, in partnership with the Bertarelli Foundation, as well as securing formal protection for Belize’s Turneffe Atoll, previously the last unprotected part of the world’s second-biggest barrier reef system. Closer to home, BLUE is also working with partners including Marks & Spencer plc to create a major new marine reserve at Lyme Bay on the south coast of England. This latter project is significant because local fishermen are directly involved in the conservation of their fishery – a blueprint that has potential to be replicated all around the coast of Britain and beyond. Crucially, BLUE acts as a catalyst and enabler for all of these projects, brokering agreements between stakeholders including governments, environmental NGOs, big business and influential individuals. BLUE co-founder George Duffield explains: “There are obvious synergies between what BLUE is trying to achieve and the kind of people OC Sport has access to through its world-class events. OC Sport can help spread our conservation message amongst its global audience.” Currently BLUE are crowd funding for 3 new exciting projects restoring the native oyster fishery in the Solent, helping fund an offshore survey to allow a comprehensive assessment to be made of potential protected areas around Ascension Island and developing new innovative technological approaches to marine management. They need your help to reach their target. Please support BLUE by donating here: https://kriticalmass.com/p/blue

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Rugged and unspoilt, the Basque Country has long been a popular cycling destination with numerous routes that tie its sandy beaches in the southeast corner of the Bay of Biscay to the narrow and dramatic passes beneath the snow-capped mountain peaks of the western Pyrenees. Characterised by tamarisk and hydrangeas, the 4.5 kilometres of coastline around Anglet include 11 beaches, wave battered shores, lush pastures and green forests, providing a beautiful backdrop for the dramatic mountain scenery. Quaint villages can be found tucked away whilst the elegant seaside resorts jostle for position along the coast with its pristine golden sand and rocky caves.

With skiing in winter and cycling in summer the rugged ridges and precarious cols of the Pyrénées Atlantiques are a popular destination year round, when the ski season comes to an end in spring the mountain passes begin to open for cyclists. Set in breath-taking scenery the climbs are narrow and steep on decent road surfaces and attract hundreds of cyclists every year looking to challenge themselves up the giants of the Pyrenees. The Tour de France has a long-standing connection with the area and it’s often said that the pro-cyclists win the Tour in the mountains between Aubisque and Tourmalet which stands at 2117 metres. Nearby Pau has been the start venue of the Tour 48 times since the Second World War. Haute Route 2014 Official Guide

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Anglet itself serves cyclists as a base for exploring the nearby mountains and also caters more locally for all levels, with clifftop trails running along the 18 kilometres of waterfront and wooded paths through the Pignada and Lazaret forests. For families nothing beats the flat trails along the Adour and Nive rivers. Basque life is steeped in tradition, history and culture. The native language, Gascon or Euskara check, is still very much alive and trilingual signs can be seen around the area. Traditional fiestas keep the Basque culture intact and many of the local villages have their own dancers and singers. Fresh Atlantic fish and seafood from the coast, the ubiquitous Espelette chilli peppers from the rolling green

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hills, locally cured jambon Bayonne and the long standing sheep farms all contribute to the gastronomic reputation that the area is famous for, with exquisite local dishes served throughout the region. In addition to skiing and cycling, surfers have seized upon the opportunities the Basque coast offers and various surf championships have been hosted in Anglet, taking advantage of the Atlantic swell. On a local level and known for their strength and competitive spirit, the Basque hold competitions in tug-of-war, rock pulling, wood chopping, weight carrying and rock climbing as well as war cry contests and talent shows.

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