12/07/2018

Back again in Alpe d’Huez

The opening of the Haute Route Village in front of the Palais des Sports in Alpe d’Huez buzzed with a mix of excitement and nervousness as riders picked up their bib number, and registration pack and enjoy the services offered by the event partners.

Despite having participated in the Haute Route Ventoux last year and the Haute Route Stelvio four weeks ago, Simon Pilcher from London was also a little anxious when he picked up his official Mavic kit: “This is my first time on the Alpe d’Huez. I feel excited and also a little bit nervous but I’m here to discover the Alpe d’Huez. Next year I’ll do a 7-day event! Maybe… But for now I like the 3-day format.”

Like 70% of the peloton, American rider Colin Hof will take part in his first Haute Route this weekend at Alpe d’Huez. Travelling from Florida just for the event, Colin is looking forward to ride on the same road as pro riders: “This is my first Haute Route. I’m beginning where the pros come and I can tell people, ‘Hey, the Tour is coming by three days after I’m done’.”

“It’s iconic”, he added. “It’s the one everyone does, it’s the one climb that I can tell everyone back home that I’ve done and they will know what it is. Most people who don’t know about cycling will know the Alpe d’Huez.”

Seduced by the 3-day format, Carolina Cagno and Andre De Vita from Brazil are also excited to live their first Haute Route experience. “I started cycling two years ago, and since then I got really enthusiastic and addicted to cycling. I have already participated in three granfondos and I wanted to take the next step in my cycling history”, said Andre.

He added: “I love new adventures and challenges, and for sure the Haute Route is well known throughout the whole world as one of the most similar races to the professional races, but for amateurs. It brings together the atmosphere, the cyclists, the organisation - everything together in Alpe d’Huez - it’s marvellous!”

Echoing her friend’s feeling, Carolina went on to say: “We came from Brazil for this race. I’m a triathlete so instead of just rooting for him, I realised that it would be a good opportunity for me to train and improve the cycling side for my triathlons. I’m also here trying to complete the race and enjoy the atmosphere!”

Following tonight’s safety briefing and traditional Pasta Party, riders will get ready for the first stage tomorrow. With 3,000 metres of ascent and 70 kilometres on the programme, the peloton will take on a punchy stage between Bourg d’Oisans and Alpe d’Huez.