Motivated by the knowledge that the 'toughest' day is behind us, we climb the picturesque Col d'Aspin (1489m) and the Col de Pereyresourde (1569m), where our efforts are rewarded by a cafe selling the best (and best value!) crépes in the Pyrenees. This is followed by the best descent of the Raid. The Col Des Ares (797m) and the Col De Buret (602m) are delightful, especially when compared to the 14% inclines of approaching the Col de Portet D'Aspet (1069m). However, once you have that in the bag, the next 70km involves a gentle down and gentle ascent to the small town of Massat.
Click here for detail of the ride.
Fairly warm today, low 30'sC. Still a lot of climbing. Blew up 4Km from the end of the 60Km sprint from the bottom of the last descent and had to recover for a while. Not for the first time was I last back to the hotel for a late supper.
