BIG Review 2011

Inhoudsopgave/Table of contents/ La table des matières Author Subject Pages Zone BIG Review Cover Colle del Nivolet Nr. 25 La table des matieres/Table of contents 1 Daniel GOBERT Le mot du president 2 01-03-2011 Dominque JACQUEMIN Carrefour/Crossroad 2011 3 Superliste 4-7 Distribuée à tous les Classement général 8-11 membres en règle. Classement claims 2010 12 Sent to all members regularly Daniel GOBERT Challenges paralleles 13-18 subscribed. Christian le CORRE Balance sheet 19-21  Brevet International du Daniel GOBERT Iron BIG 22-28 Grimpeur Anja von HEYDEBRECK Operation 2525 29  International Axel JANSEN Operation 2525 II 30-32 Cycloclimbing Diploma Daniel GOBERT The 25th birthday of my Baby BIG 33-34  Zwischenstaatliches Gianni CUCCONI La salita ci svela chi siamo 35-36 Kletterer Zeugnis Pete THOMAS Lake District 37-38 2  Internationaal Wim van ELS Engeland 39-40 2 Klimmersbrevet  Brevetto Internazional Daniel GOBERT Les plus hautes routes des iles Britanniques 41-45 2 dello Scalatore Various autors UK meeting 46-51 2  Diploma Internacional del Helmuth DEKKERS Italian day in the 52-56 3 escalador Gabriele BRUNETTI A call from Netherland 57-58 3 Helmuth DEKKERS Hungarian day in the Netherlands 59-62 3 Association des Monts de Gabor KREISCI September rain 63-64 3 Super Grimpeur Franco- Roland SCHUYER 20 BIG’s in 4 dagen 65-68 3 Belge Dominique JACQUEMIN Rosier 69 3 Willem VODDE De West Vlaamse heuvels 70-71 3 Editeur/Editor : Daniel GOBERT Central 72 4 Martin Kool Rob BOSDIJK Nebelhorn 73-74 4 [email protected] Daniel GOBERT Le mur de la Mûre 75 5 Impression Revue- Francois CANDAU Bourgogne 76-77 5 Reviews printing: Jose BRUFFAERTS Les Ascensions de la Pentecôte 78-79 5 Etienne Mayeur Hans KOEDIJKER Mont Saint Baudille 80 5 Meindert BRUGMAN Col de Menté 81 5 Expéditeur/Sender: Michel MENARD Une Journée mémorable au Mont-Ventoux 82-83 5 Dominique Jacquemin Gábor GYÖRGYI Crossing the Pyrenées by bicycle 84-87 5 Website: Wim van ELS Sneeuwpret in de Alpen 88-89 5 & 7 www.challenge-big.eu Claudio MONTEFUSCO Montserrat 90-91 6 Gábor GYÖRGYI Ötztaler bicyclearathon 92-96 8 Coverphoto by: Marc PEETERS Mijn tien favoriete bergen in Italië 97-99 9 Philip Hul Martin KOOL & Mauro Colle del Nivolet () REPETTI Remarkable story 100 9 Giordano CASTAGNOLI Brevetto Monte Nerone 101-103 9 Martin KOOL Hoogtestage 104-105 9 Hans LUBBERS Lago Maggiore en het Lago di Como 106-108 9 Kevin SPEED Northern Italy 109-111 9 Luigi CANDELLI Mille chilometri in tre giorni 112-114 9 Giordano CASTAGNOLI Iron BIG 115-117 9 Gábor GYÖRGYI Highest point of 118 10 John en Wil TIMMERMANS Fietsen in polders en bergen 119-120 Jose BRUFFAERTS Une année sur la Terre 121-122

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TOI ET MOI LE MOT DU PRESIDENT Daniel GOBERT

Nous nous sommes rencontrés par internet, lorsque je voyageais électroniquement afin de voyager infiniment. Dans la liste qui m'était présentée, je t'ai choisie, juste pour un essai. Notre première rencontre allait être imminente; mais déjà, l'ampleur du choix qui m'obligeait à être le plus polygame possible, me laissait pressentir que notre première rencontre serait aussi la dernière. J'avais juste le droit de t'essayer une fois avant d'aller quérir d'autres conquêtes. A moins d'oublier celles-ci et de devenir ton parrain à vie en te rencontrant vingt-cinq fois ! J'ai parcouru tes pages de présentation sur le site, analysé tes courbes, consulté tes photos, lu tes coordonnées. J'ai même demandé de plus amples informations à tes amants antérieurs. J'ai vu qui était passé par toi et ça m'a donné une idée de toi. J'ai consulté le temps que nous allions ensemble et j'ai pris rendez-vous. Il me restait entretemps à rêver de la beauté que tu pouvais avoir. Vint le jour J et je me suis préparé pour te voir. Je me suis habillé pour la circonstance; j'ai mis mon habit d'apparat. J'étais à l'heure. On ne se moque pas de toi. Au début, tu ne me disais pas grand chose ! Un air de déjà vu ! Mais peu à peu, tu as dévoilé tes différences. Certains de tes aspects m'ont fait souffrir; d'autres m'ont enchanté. Je retiendrai ces éléments. C'est ta marque de fabrique. Nous avons échangé nos valeurs. Tu m'as montré ta nature, je l'ai visitée. J'ai voulu te montrer quels étaient mes atouts et tu m'as inscrit sur ta carte de visite. Mais déjà, le temps de la rupture se pointait à l'horizon. Nous posions ensemble en souvenir de nos ébats et nous nous promettions de ne pas nous oublier. En me laissant repartir, tu laissais la place libre pour tes amants suivants et moi, je rêvais déjà de ma prochaine maîtresse. C'était juste un jour comme ça entre toi et moi, entre un nom de la superliste et ma vie de cycliste, entre des pentes d'ailleurs et mes jambes promues par mon cœur. L'infidélité frappe chaque fois les BIGs qu'on a aimés !

Presi-Dan.

YOU AND ME PRESIDENT's WORD Daniel GOBERT

We met by Internet, when I electronically travelled in order to travel infinitely. In the list which was presented to me, I chose you, just for a test. Our first meeting was going to be imminent; but already, the extent of the choice which obliged me to be most polygamous possible, let me have a presentiment : our first meeting would be also the last one. I had just the right to test you once before going to query other conquests. Or to forget those ones and to become your godfather for life by meeting you twenty-five times! I traversed your pages of presentation on the site, analyzed your curves, consulted your photographs, read your coordinates. I even asked further information to your former lovers. I saw who had passed through you and it gave me an idea of you. I consulted the time that we were going to pass together and I managed a meeting. It remained me meanwhile to dream of the beauty which you could have. Came the D-day and I prepared myself to see you. I got dressed for the circumstance; I put on my dress of pageantry. I was in time. One does not make fun of you. At the beginning, you did not tell me large thing! A look of "already seen" ! But little by little, you revealed your differences. Some of your aspects made me suffering; other ones enjoyed myself. I will retain these elements. They are your trademark. We exchanged our values. You shew your nature to me, I visited them. I wanted to show you which were my assets and you registered me on your calling card. But already, the time of the rupture was pointed on the horizon. We posed together in remembering our frolicking and we promised ourselves not to forget us. By letting me set out again, you left the free place for your following lovers and me, I already dreamed of my next mistress. It was just one day like that between you and me, between a name of the superlist and my life of cyclist, between slopes elsewhere and my best legs in the same air. The inaccuracy strikes each time BIGs that one loved!

Presi-dan.

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CARREFOUR / CROSSROAD 2. Hôtel Formule 1 à Nice Monts de France / B.I.G 2011 http://www.hotelformule1.com/fr/booking/hotels- list.shtml#topMiddleContent

Le samedi 29 octobre 2011 3. Cap Martin : le Golfe bleu (www.legolfebleu.com) : En collaboration avec le BIG et dans le cadre de parking fermé (closed park) / salle pour vélos (room son carrefour 2011 en Provence, se tiendra la for the cycles) / téléphone direct (direct Réunion annuelle des Monts de France à la Madone phone)/ linge de toilette fourni (towels in the room) d’Utelle / Wifi (5 euros) a. La nuit pour deux (studio deux lits) /one night for A cette occasion nous vous convions tous à venir two (studio two beds) : 125 euros escalader la Madone d’Utelle. b. La semaine pour deux du 22/10 au 03/11 (for two Rendez-vous 14H00 à Saint Jean-la-Rivière persons from 10/22 to 11/03) / Ascension longue de 15 Km pour 884 m de studio deux lits (studio two beds) /500 euros dénivellé. c. La semaine pour quatre du 22/10 au 03/11 (for 16H 00 Verre de l’amitié au sommet. four persons from 10/22 to 11/03) / 19H 30 Repas ensemble à Nice « Au grill d’or » studio quatre lits (studio four beds) /600 euros http://www.grilldor.fr/ d. La semaine pour six du 22/10 au 03/11 (for six Carrefour BIG du 29/10/2011 au 03/11/2011 persons from 10/22 to 11/03) 650 Samedi 29/10/2011 euros. Réunion des monts de France + carrefour du BIG 14H00 Utelle à partir de Saint Jean-La-Rivière (15 4. Menton : Auberge de jeunesse / youth hostel Km pour 884m de dénivellé) (http://www.fuaj.org/Menton) : fermée 16H00 Verre de l'amitié 16H30 descente vers Nice (closed) 20H00 Repas ensemble dans une pizzeria 5. Nice Auberge de jeunesse / youth hostel les *************************************** camelias (http://www.fuaj.org/Nice-Les-Camelias) Dimanche 30/10/2011 à partir de (from) 25 euros la nuit + petit déjeuner carrefour du BIG (Bed and breakfast) Escarène -Braus- -Authion-Escarène 68 Km Nice Auberge de jeunesse / youth hostel mont départ : Libre Boron : fermée (closed) 12H00 midi on se retrouve au col de Turini pour ***************************************** faire l'Authion ensemble 16H00 retour Nice En cas de participation faites- le moi savoir *************************************** [email protected] Lundi 01/11/2011 Les capi avec rendez-vous au sommet de La Cipressa à une heure donnée. Prendre un verre sur le retour dans la vieille ville de Ventimiglia ? **************************** Mardi 02/11 Grasse 10H00 Doublier 11H30 Possibilité de prolonger vers Valferrière **************************** Mercredi 03/11 Ascension du Mont Chauve

Quelques adresses de logement possible 1. Auberge de jeunesse : La villa Saint Exupéry à Nice http://www.villahostels.com/galler y-fr

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CHALLENGE BIG 2011 - OFFICIAL SUPERLIST 1.000 ZONE 1 England ZONE4 Iceland 76 Great Dun Fell 36 claims score: 49 Germany 1 Hrafnseyrarheiði 16 claims score: 54 77 Westernhope Moor 45 claims score: 27 151 Waseberg 54 claims score: 32 2 Öxnadalsheiði 8 claims score: 31 78 Hartside Cross 63 claims score: 30 152 Hermannsdenkmal 44 claims score: 24 3 Námaskarð 12 claims score: 16 79 Whinlatter Pass 73 claims score: 32 153 Hoher Meissner 55 claims score: 35 4 Halfdan 4 claims score: 41 80 Honister Pass 72 claims score: 36 154 Hoherodskopf 41 claims score: 39 5 Hellisheiði 6 claims score: 64 81 Hard Knott Pass 67 claims score: 46 155 Mützenich 204 claims score: 26 6 Oddskarð 4 claims score: 59 82 Wrynose Pass 73 claims score: 40 156 Schwarzer Mann 139 claims score: 27 7 Almannáskarð 14 claims score: 30 Norway 83 Kirkstone Pass 78 claims score: 47 157 Hohe Acht 104 claims score: 35 8 Nordkapp 31 claims score: 40 84 Fleet Moss 59 claims score: 32 158 Krautscheid 113 claims score: 31 9 Guolasjavri 7 claims score: 38 85 Rosedale Head 31 claims score: 29 159 Steigung von Bremm 82 claims score: 26 10 Saltfjellet 15 claims score: 33 86 Cow & Calf 44 claims score: 39 160 Stumpfer Turm 87 claims score: 21 11 Umskardet 7 claims score: 29 87 Oxenhope Moor 44 claims score: 40 161 Erbeskopf 96 claims score: 28 12 TrØn 8 claims score: 64 88 Holme Moss 60 claims score: 37 162 Winterbergstrasse 46 claims score: 42 13 Dovrefjell 37 claims score: 45 89 Snake Pass 61 claims score: 35 163 Schaumberg 64 claims score: 39 14 Blåhö 4 claims score: 57 90 Mam Tor 60 claims score: 38 164 Hesselberg 24 claims score: 32 15 Vestkap 9 claims score: 45 91 Bush Down 41 claims score: 26 165 Donnersberg 52 claims score: 44 16 Trollstigveien 55 claims score: 51 92 Exe Plain 36 claims score: 39 166 Trifels 59 claims score: 27 17 Dalsnibba 38 claims score: 55 93 Dunkery Beacon 44 claims score: 47 167 Hornisgrinde 86 claims score: 53 18 Gamle Strynefjellsvei 23 claims score: 39 94 Chineway Hill 27 claims score: 18 168 Schliff Kopf 73 claims score: 44 19 Sognefjell Hytta 40 claims score: 60 95 Cheddar Gorge 51 claims score: 32 Wales 169 Löcherbergwasen 71 claims score: 31 20 Valdresflya 25 claims score: 46 96 Llanberis Pass 48 claims score: 30 170 Kandel 162 claims score: 55 21 Tyin Øsen 17 claims score: 42 97 Horseshoe Pass 45 claims score: 25 171 Schauinsland 202 claims score: 61 22 Juvasshytta 15 claims score: 67 98 Bwlch-y-Groes 44 claims score: 44 172 Belchen 164 claims score: 54 23 Osen 16 claims score: 29 99 Devil's Staircase 37 claims score: 29 173 Herzogenhorn 125 claims score: 54 24 Nystölen 16 claims score: 42 100 Gospel Pass 40 claims score: 31 174 Blauen 125 claims score: 55 25 Stalheimkleiva 28 claims score: 45 175 Lochen Pass 52 claims score: 29 26 Aurlandsvegen 28 claims score: 60 ZONE3 176 Weißenbach Sattel 116 claims score: 45 27 Hardangervidda 36 claims score: 48 Netherlands 177 Petersberg 56 claims score: 26 28 Gaustatoppen 21 claims score: 44 101 Posbank 658 claims score: 29 178 Kahler Asten 119 claims score: 33 29 DyrskarPass 23 claims score: 35 102 Italiaanse Weg 503 claims score: 15 179 Großer Inselsberg 38 claims score: 43 30 Lysefjordsveien 18 claims score: 50 103 Oude Holleweg 478 claims score: 20 180 Waßerkuppe 60 claims score: 39 31 Luossavaara 4 claims score: 29 104 Cauberg 1051 claims score: 39 181 Hohe Wurzel 53 claims score: 33 32 Ullådalen 8 claims score: 41 105 Keutenberg 994 claims score: 33 182 Großer Feldberg 118 claims score: 56 33 Stekenjokk 7 claims score: 18 106 Eyserbos 948 claims score: 33 183 Katzenbuckel 30 claims score: 43 34 Flatruet 9 claims score: 36 107 Oude Huls 594 claims score: 37 184 Sonnenberg 55 claims score: 35 35 Sälens Högfjällshotellet 13 cl. score: 28 108 Gulpenerberg 877 claims score: 44 185 Brocken 69 claims score: 65 36 Vemdalskalet 12 claims score: 29 109 Vijlenerbos 783 claims score: 35 186 Roßtrappe 37 claims score: 27 37 Nipstugan Pass 11 claims score: 34 110 Drielandenpunt 944 claims score: 44 Belgium 187 Auersberg 33 claims score: 44 38 Klevaliden 13 claims score: 37 111 Rodeberg 368 claims score: 35 188 Fichtelberg 53 claims score: 40 39 Tossebergsklätten 9 claims score: 33 112 Kemmelberg 445 claims score: 52 189 Schwarzriegel 31 claims score: 45 40 Hunneberg 16 claims score: 16 113 Koppenberg 688 claims score: 40 190 Großer Arber 55 claims score: 40 41 Högkullen 18 claims score: 17 114 Kluisberg 675 claims score: 46 191 Oberjoch Paß 114 claims score: 31 42 Kilpisjärvi 15 claims score: 30 115 Oude Kwaremont 745 claims score: 32 192 Nebelhorn 44 claims score: 76 43 Kaunispää 6 claims score: 20 116 Paterberg 688 claims score: 39 193 Riedbergpaß 98 claims score: 46 44 Pallastunturi 8 claims score: 19 117 Muur Geraardsbergen 761 cl score: 48 194 Allgaüer Berghof Spitze 67 cl. score: 48 45 Rukatunturi 4 claims score: 28 118 Mont Saint Aubert 333 claims score: 36 195 Keßelbergstraße 82 claims score: 26 46 Tunturi-Ylläs 6 claims score: 16 119 Barrage du Ry de Rome 175 cl. score: 24 196 Wallberg Straße 63 claims score: 44 47 Vuokatti 4 claims score: 17 120 Triple Mur Monty 259 claims score: 27 197 Spitzing Sattel 80 claims score: 40 48 Ukko-Koli 6 claims score: 23 121 La Gayolle 243 claims score: 19 198 Südelfeld 77 claims score: 41 49 Ejer Bavnehöj 31 claims score: 23 122 Montagne de la Croix 221 cl. score: 27 199 Hirschbichl 44 claims score: 41 50 Himmelbjerget 26 claims score: 18 123 Col de Corbion 230 claims score: 27 200 Roßfeld 61 claims score: 67 124 Col du Sati 196 claims score: 39 ZONE 2 125 Mur de Huy 487 claims score: 45 ZONE 5 Northern Ireland 126 445 claims score: 47 France 51 Sperrin 14 claims score: 24 127 Ferme Libert 285 claims score: 31 201 Roc Trevezel 167 claims score: 28 52 Spelga Dam 19 claims score: 26 Ireland 128 Côte de la Redoute 985 claims score: 43 202 Ménez-Hom 141 claims score: 30 53 Gap of Mamore 22 claims score: 37 129 Col du Rideux 361 claims score: 26 203 Ménez-Kerque 83 claims score: 20 54 Grianan of Aileach 15 claims score: 33 130 Les Hézalles 358 claims score: 36 204 Montagne Locronan 101 claims score: 20 55 Glengesh Pass 23 claims score: 24 131 Col du Rosier 854 claims score: 39 205 Roc de Toullaëron 95 claims score: 14 56 Cliffs of Moher 49 claims score: 28 132 Côte de Wanne 923 claims score: 42 206 Ménez-Bré 80 claims score: 26 57 Connor Pass 52 claims score: 35 133 Col du Stockeu 779 claims score: 46 207 Mûr-de-Bretagne 126 claims score: 28 58 Coomakesta Pass 39 claims score: 19 134 Baraque de Fraiture 624 claims score: 41 208 Mont Bel Air 95 claims score: 26 59 Ballaghasheen Pass 32 claims score: 23 135 Cheval de Bois 162 claims score: 22 209 Cap Fréhel 112 claims score: 20 60 Ballaghbeama Gap 34 claims score: 26 136 Col d'Haussire 463 claims score: 35 210 Mont Dol 90 claims score: 28 61 Healy Pass 48 claims score: 26 137 Pied Monti 264 claims score: 33 211 Mont Cassel 298 claims score: 41 62 Mullaghanish 20 claims score: 41 138 Côte de Munshausen 183 cl. score: 24 212 Mont Noir 287 claims score: 23 63 Slieve Bloom 24 claims score: 18 139 Mont Saint Nicolas 258 claims score: 44 213 Mont Tranet 157 claims score: 37 64 Sally Gap 74 claims score: 37 140 Bourscheid 252 claims score: 38 214 Col du Loup 161 claims score: 21 65 Wicklow Gap 70 claims score: 33 Scotland 141 Jardin-Tour Napoléon 155 cl. score: 30 215 Mont Saint-Walfroy 98 claims score: 28 66 Bealach Na Ba 33 claims score: 42 142 Côte d'Eschdorf 185 claims score: 36 216 Grand Wintersberg 104 claims score: 41 67 Bealach Ratagain 20 claims score: 32 143 Ferme de Masseler 159 claims score: 19 217 Col du Donon 289 claims score: 43 68 Lowther Hill 25 claims score: 36 144 Herrenberg 171 claims score: 27 218 Champ du Feu 221 claims score: 49 69 Cairn Gorm 28 claims score: 30 145 Berdorf Gorges Loup 208 cl. score: 32 219 Col de la Grosse Pierre 423 cl. score: 34 70 Lecht Road 37 claims score: 28 146 Altrier 142 claims score: 28 220 Col de la Schlucht 673 claims score: 56 71 Tom Dubh 33 claims score: 20 147 Côte d'Houwald 139 claims score: 21 221 Petit Drumond 167 claims score: 40 72 The Strone 31 claims score: 16 148 Eoliennes de Pafebierg 136 cl. score: 29 222 Petit Ballon 419 claims score: 48 73 Devil's Elbow 37 claims score: 35 149 Birgerkraiz 136 claims score: 26 223 Grand Ballon 693 claims score: 62 74 Glen Quaich 24 claims score: 34 150 Mont Saint Jean 109 claims score: 29 224 Ballon de Servance 366 claims score: 45 75 Carter Bar 27 claims score: 18 225 Ballon d'Alsace 664 claims score: 54

4 BIG Review 2011

226 Butte de Montenoison 49 cl. score: 36 312 Col de Rieisse 118 claims score: 34 395 Puerto de la Cubilla 39 claims score: 46 227 Mont Beuvray 87 claims score: 39 313 Mont Aigoual 331 claims score: 56 396 Puerto de Pajares 42 claims score: 54 228 Mont de Sène 71 claims score: 23 314 Col des Faisses 151 claims score: 37 397 Puerto de San Isidro 63 claims score: 49 229 Signal d'Uchon 70 claims score: 44 315 Pic de Nore 122 claims score: 47 398 Collado de Los Bedules 36 cl score: 40 230 Butte de Suin 63 claims score: 29 316 Col de l'Espinouse 139 claims score: 34 399 Puerto de Panderruedas 72 cl score: 45 231 Col de Favardy 96 claims score: 26 317 Pic de Tantajo 66 claims score: 35 400 Lagos de 160 cl score: 62 232 Mont Poupet 60 claims score: 30 318 Mont Saint-Baudille 88 claims score: 35 401 Collado Barreda 33 claims score: 49 233 Grand Taureau 67 claims score: 29 319 Mont Saint-Clair 123 claims score: 47 402 Puerto de San Glorio 87 claims score: 46 234 Mont Morond 70 claims score: 40 320 Guidon du Bouquet 110 claims score: 48 403 Alto Campoo-F.Chivo 40 cl score: 57 235 Mont d'Or 99 claims score: 42 321 Mont Faron 123 claims score: 58 404 Puerto de la Palombera 58 cl score: 46 236 Fort de Chaudanne 9 claims score: 45 322 Cirque de Vaumale 163 claims score: 48 405 Puerto del Escudo 43 claims score: 56 237 Haut-Crêt 10 claims score: 53 323 Col de Valferrière 155 claims score: 35 406 Puerto Estacas de Trueba 55 cl score: 36 238 Col de la Faucille 230 claims score: 54 324 Montagne de Doublier 57 cl. score: 42 407 Portillo de Lunada 72 claims score: 54 239 Cirque des Avalanches 8 cl. score: 53 325 Col Saint-Martin 166 claims score: 41 408 Peña Cabarga 39 claims score: 55 240 Signal du Cuiron 59 claims score: 30 326 Mont Vial 60 claims score: 49 409 Portillo de la Sia 63 claims score: 58 241 Relais de Planachat 72 claims score: 41 327 Madonne d'Utelle 108 claims score: 51 410 Puerto de Orduña 56 claims score: 38 242 Col de Saint-Thomas 113 cl. score: 31 328 L'Authion 132 claims score: 62 411 Puerto de Urkiola 90 claims score: 49 243 Col du Chevalard 77 claims score: 38 329 Col de Braus 224 claims score: 54 412 Alto de Jaizkibel 156 claims score: 46 244 Puy-de-Dôme 190 claims score: 75 330 Artzamendi 91 claims score: 52 413 Alto de Azurki 53 claims score: 44 245 Col de Guéry 207 claims score: 19 331 Col de Bagargui-Iraty 260 cl. score: 66 414 Alto de Hachueta 46 claims score: 46 246 Col de la Croix-Morand 228 cl. score: 40 332 Col Pierre Saint-Martin 241 cl. score: 71 415 Puerto de la Herrera 62 claims score: 48 247 Col Croix Saint-Robert 217 cl. score: 35 333 Col de Marie-Blanque 445 cl. score: 52 416 Puerto de Urbasa 71 claims score: 22 248 Col du Béal 167 claims score: 42 334 Col d'Aubisque 726 claims score: 66 417 Puerto de Lizárraga 75 claims score: 30 249 Col de Baracuchet 120 claims score: 37 335 Col de Spandelles 237 claims score: 43 418 Higa de Monreal 36 claims score: 55 250 Col Croix Homme Mort 180 cl. scor: 41 336 Pont d'Espagne 234 claims score: 62 419 Orzanzurieta 90 claims score: 54 251 Chaise-Dieu 99 claims score: 28 337 Hautacam 382 claims score: 62 420 Puerto de Larrau 225 claims score: 62 252 Col République 156 claims score: 48 338 Luz-Ardiden 353 claims score: 59 421 Puerto de Somport 224 claims score: 55 253 Crêt de l'Oeillon 134 claims score: 60 339 Gavarnie 268 claims score: 49 422 Castillo de Loarre 37 claims score: 30 254 Col de Charousse 85 claims score: 34 340 Cirque de Troumouse 170 cl. score: 49 423 Collado de Sahún 29 claims score: 51 255 Pas de Peyrol 245 claims score: 54 341 Col du Tourmalet 866 claims score: 77 424 Cerler 54 claims score: 58 256 Col de Légal 141 claims score: 27 342 Lac d'Aumar 123 claims score: 49 425 El Portillon 268 claims score: 54 257 Col de Finiels 142 claims score: 32 343 Col de Beyrède 158 claims score: 39 426 Collado de la Bonaigua 199 cl score: 58 258 Pré de la Dame 101 claims score: 41 344 Col d'Aspin 682 claims score: 56 427 Llac de Sant Maurici 57 claims score: 45 259 Col de Meyrand 158 claims score: 37 345 Pla d'Adet 214 claims score: 60 428 Coll de Cantó 125 claims score: 55 260 Croix de Boutières 150 claims score: 41 346 Plateau de Beille 171 claims score: 64 429 Rasos de Peguera 86 claims score: 61 261 Gerbier de Jonc 239 claims score: 38 347 Col d'Azet 243 claims score: 48 430 Coll de Pal 98 claims score: 54 262 Col de Serre-Mûre 110 claims score: 39 348 Col de Peyresourde 589 claims score: 60 431 Vallter 2000 82 claims score: 50 263 Chartreuse de Portes 113 cl.score: 35 349 Superbagnères 210 claims score: 62 432 Coll de Bracons 104 claims score: 44 264 Col Grand Colombier 259 cl. score: 71 350 Col de Menté 369 claims score: 59 433 Turó de l'Home 121 claims score: 58 265 Crêt de Châtillon 219 claims score: 61 351 Col de Portet d'Aspet 424 cl. score: 57 434 Coll Formic 122 claims score: 51 266 Mont du Chat 203 claims score: 72 352 Guzet-Neige 112 claims score: 55 435 Monasterio Montserrat 128 cl score: 49 267 Mont Revard 223 claims score: 60 353 Col d'Agnès 271 claims score: 53 436 Arcalis 136 claims score: 57 268 Col du Granier 276 claims score: 57 354 Col de Péguère 191 claims score: 51 437 Coll de Ordino 147 claims score: 49 269 259 claims score: 61 355 Prat d'Albis 66 claims score: 45 438 Els Cortals 78 claims score: 57 270 Col des Arces 115 claims score: 42 356 Montségur 134 claims score: 36 439 Port d'Envalira 264 claims score: 64 271 Col de la Ramaz 246 claims score: 53 357 Col du Pradel 209 claims score: 42 440 Port de Cabus 126 claims score: 58 272 Col de l'Encrenaz 194 claims score: 37 358 Port de Pailhères 348 claims score: 66 441 Bosc de la Rabassa 85 claims score: 62 273 Avoriaz 246 claims score: 54 359 Col de Puymorens 245 claims score: 56 442 Lagunas de Neila 52 claims score: 53 274 Col de Joux-Plane 360 claims score: 66 360 Coma Morera 80 claims score: 42 443 Cruz de la Demanda 52 claims score: 52 275 Mont Salève 150 claims score: 52 361 Col de Jau 232 claims score: 52 444 Moncalvillo 35 claims score: 47 276 Col de la Colombière 469 cl. score: 67 362 Col de Mantet 111 claims score: 48 445 Puerto de Peña Hincada 34 cl score: 39 277 Col de la Croix-Fry 333 claims score: 52 363 Port de Balès 119 claims score: 52 446 Laguna Negra de Urbion 45 cl score: 42 278 Col du Grand Cucheron 167 cl. score: 52 364 Châlet-hôtel Cortalets 58 cl. score: 72 447 El Moncayo 33 claims score: 37 279 Collet d'Allevard 84 claims score: 48 365 Tour de Madeloc 145 claims score: 50 448 Puerto de Orihuela 36 claims score: 17 280 Col de la Madeleine 606 claims score: 75 366 Col de Serra 109 claims score: 36 449 Puerto de Villaroya 47 claims score: 23 281 Signal de Bisanne 125 claims score: 63 367 Serra di Pigno 55 claims score: 51 450 MontCaró 63 claims score: 63 282 Cormet d'Arêches 110 claims score: 51 368 Bocca di a Battaglia 69 claims score: 40 451 Valdelinares 37 claims score: 48 283 Cormet de Roselend 508 cl. score: 62 369 Haut-Asco 58 claims score: 41 452 Puerto Vidré-Vistabella 37 clscore: 39 284 La Plagne 180 claims score: 66 370 Col de Prato 80 claims score: 36 453 Puerto del Remolcador 40 cl score: 34 285 Col Petit Saint-Bernard 428 cl. score: 62 371 Col de Lava 113 claims score: 34 454 Alto de Eslida 48 claims score: 39 286 Col de l'Iseran 628 claims score: 65 372 Col de Vergio 142 claims score: 48 455 Javalambre 34 claims score: 40 287 Col Croix-de-Fer 1038 claims score: 76 373 Bergeries de Grotelle 62 claims score: 45 456 Puerto Viejo 12 claims score: 26 288 Col du Mont Cenis 377 claims score: 62 374 Col de Verde 110 claims score: 36 457 El Portillo 38 claims score: 46 289 Chamrousse 190 claims score: 55 375 Col de Bavella 154 claims score: 59 458 Peña de Francia 36 claims score: 47 290 Alpe d'Huez 1326 claims score: 70 459 El Travieso 18 claims score: 43 291 Col du Galibier 1304 claims score: 86 ZONE 6 460 Puerto de Honduras 41 claims score: 36 292 Col du Granon 319 claims score: 63 Spain 461 Puerto de Tornavacas 29 cl score: 36 293 Pré Madame Carle 150 claims score: 46 376 Monte Aloia 28 claims score: 40 462 Puerto del Piornal 26 claims score: 36 294 Col d'Izoard 893 claims score: 72 377 Vixía Herbeira 16 claims score: 40 463 Puerto de la Peña Negra 25 cl score: 37 295 Sommet du Bûcher 92 claims score: 47 378 Alto de San Clodio 19 claims score: 42 464 Puerto de Serranillos 43 claims score: 55 296 Chapelle de Clausis 69 claims score: 44 379 Puerto del Buey 19 claims score: 36 465 Puerto de Mijares 38 claims score: 52 297 Col de Tourniol 166 claims score: 46 380 Cabeza de Manzaneda 26 cl. score: 54 466 Puerto de Guadarrama 66 cl score: 51 s 298 Col du Rousset 288 claims score: 49 381 Puerto de Ancares 30 claims score: 58 467 Bola del Mundo 113 claims score: 54 299 Col de Ménée 185 claims score: 46 382 El Sestil 28 claims score: 51 468 Puerto de la Morcuera 108 cl score: 42 300 Col du Noyer 162 claims score: 47 383 Paso del Morredero 36 claims score: 63 469 Puerto de la Quesera 32 claims score: 27 301 Mont Ventoux 1260 claims score: 80 384 Puerto de Foncebadón 69 cl. score: 46 470 Portixol 38 claims score: 35 302 Mont Colombis 105 claims score: 60 385 Puerto del Palo 33 claims score: 35 471 Puerto de Ares 62 claims score: 30 303 Col du Pontis 245 claims score: 41 386 Pozo las Mujeres Muertas 35 cl score: 41 472 Puerto de Tudons 77 claims score: 43 304 Col du Parpaillon 195 claims score: 63 387 Puerto del Connio 37 claims score: 37 473 Cerro Espuña 47 claims score: 51 305 Col de Vars 704 claims score: 62 388 Piedratecha 20 claims score: 39 474 Galilea 119 claims score: 43 306 Col d'Allos 550 claims score: 56 389 Santuario del Acebo 30 claims score: 50 475 Coll de Soller 188 claims score: 30 307 Col de la Cayolle 553 claims score: 60 390 Puerto de Somiedo 52 claims score: 45 476 La Corbata 118 claims score: 44 308 Cime de la Bonette 728 claims score: 67 391 Puerto de San Lorenzo 52 cl score: 48 477 Puig Major 179 claims score: 38 309 Col de la Lombarde 300 claims score: 66 392 Puerto de Ventana 57 claims score: 51 478 Monasterio de Cura 135 claims score: 29 310 Col des Champs 366 claims score: 53 393 L'Angliru 86 claims score: 77 479 Monasterio San Salvador 118 cl sc: 27 311 Col de la Couillole 229 claims score: 57 394 La Cobertoria 61 claims score: 69 480 Las Palomas de Ronda 66 cl score: 46

5 BIG Review 2011

481 Gibraltar 46 claims score: 58 564 Axalp 42 claims score: 50 647 Falkertsee-Hütte 22 claims score: 56 482 Alto de Cascajares 33 claims score: 47 565 Große Scheidegg 157 claims score: 62 648 Villacher Alpenstraße 45 cl score: 50 483 Puerto del León 78 claims score: 39 566 Oberaarsee 156 claims score: 58 649 Kanzelhöhe 25 claims score: 48 484 Puerto del Sol 19 claims score: 36 567 Sustenpaß 317 claims score: 68 650 Gerlitzen 35 claims score: 63 485 Mirador Cabra Montés 49 clscore: 57 568 Furkapaß 370 claims score: 56 651 Oberst-Klinke Hütte 8 claims score: 47 486 Puerto Lobo 39 claims score: 28 569 Oberalppaß 282 claims score: 58 652 Hochkar-Gleischlägerhaus 13 cl sc : 42 487 Pico Veleta 140 claims score: 87 570 Klausenpaß 123 claims score: 64 653 Sölkpaß 68 claims score: 46 488 Puerto Haza del Lino 41 claims score: 48 571 Tannenbodenalp 25 claims score: 50 654 Gleinalmsattel 13 claims score: 43 489 Puerto de la Ragua 56 claims score: 61 572 Pas de Morgins 190 claims score: 55 655 Lammersdorfer Berg 22 claims score: 74 490 Puerto de Tiscar 24 claims score: 30 573 Col de la Forclaz 237 claims score: 58 656 Gaberlsattel 32 claims score: 46 491 Las Palomas de Cazorla 31 cl score: 25 574 Col des Planches 94 claims score: 48 657 Klippitztörl 37 claims score: 43 492 Alto de la Sagra 21 claims score: 32 575 Monte Generoso 76 claims score: 56 658 Magdalensberg 20 claims score: 38 493 Puerto Padilla 32 claims score: 41 576 Barrage de Mauvoisin 59 cl score: 53 659 Großer Speikkogel 27 claims score: 71 494 Calar Alto 48 claims score: 47 577 Thyon 2000 49 claims score: 57 660 Eisenkappler Hütte 18 claims score: 42 495 Las Cañadas 67 claims score: 67 578 Barrage Grande Dixence 66 cl score: 64 661 Seeberg Sattel 56 claims score: 41 496 Pico del Inglés 33 claims score: 52 579 Arolla 69 claims score: 63 662 Weinebene 27 claims score: 53 497 Pozo de las Nieves 51 claims score: 64 580 Glacier de Moiry 69 claims score: 68 663 Jauerling 17 claims score: 48 498 Roque los Muchachos 28 cl score: 67 581 Chandolin 57 claims score: 66 664 Grubberg 19 claims score: 24 499 Cumbrecita 25 claims score: 54 582 Mattmarksee 58 claims score: 61 665 Zellerain 30 claims score: 37 500 Garajonay 24 claims score: 52 583 Simplonpaß 219 claims score: 64 666 Bürgeralm 7 claims score: 43 501 Monte do Faro 22 claims score: 35 584 Nufenenpaß 309 claims score: 76 667 Rohrer Sattel 40 claims score: 28 502 Nossa Senhora da Graça 21 cl score: 49 585 Sankt-Gothardpaß 349 claims score: 61 668 Hocheck 26 claims score: 43 503 Barragem do Alvao 13 claims score: 52 586 Lago di Naret 66 claims score: 65 669 Hohe Wand 30 claims score: 44 504 Alto de Espinho 16 claims score: 66 587 Lukmanierpaß 196 claims score: 46 670 Preiner Gscheid 32 claims score: 31 505 Marofa 10 claims score: 32 588 Lago Luzzone 33 claims score: 51 671 Sonnwendstein 19 claims score: 46 506 Buçaco 21 claims score: 29 589 Passo di Neggia 92 claims score: 58 672 Stuhleck 29 claims score: 50 507 Torre 35 claims score: 68 590 Passo del San Bernardino 244 cl sc: 71 673 Schanzsattel 22 claims score: 42 508 Bom Jésus 15 claims score: 48 591 Glaspaß 37 claims score: 54 674 Auf dem Straßegg 22 claims score: 32 509 Alto do Trevim 13 claims score: 49 592 Lenzerheidepaß 136 claims score: 47 675 Ebenwald-Parkplatz 19 claims score: 38 510 Caramulinho 14 claims score: 43 593 Arosa 63 claims score: 59 511 Sao Mamede 17 claims score: 32 594 Flüelapaß 254 claims score: 57 ZONE 9 512 Marvao 18 claims score: 32 595 Ofenpaß 326 claims score: 61 Italy 513 Capela São Macario 10 claims score: 27 596 Albulapaß 303 claims score: 50 676 Breuil-Cervinia 82 claims score: 50 514 Monsanto 9 claims score: 28 597 Julierpaß 249 claims score: 51 677 Colle San Carlo 150 claims score: 67 515 Alto de Sintra 25 claims score: 37 598 Juf 58 claims score: 45 678 Colle del Nivolet 169 claims score: 68 516 Serra da Arrábida 25 claims score: 32 599 Berninapaß 365 claims score: 67 Liechtenstein 679 Colle Sommeiller 102 claims score: 60 517 Monte Foïa 22 claims score: 49 600 Malbun 72 claims score: 55 680 Colle delle Finestre 232 claims score: 75 518 Montejunto 13 claims score: 46 681 Colle Braida 98 claims score: 44 519 Eira do Serrado 15 claims score: 55 ZONE8 682 Pian del Re 98 claims score: 65 520 Bocca da Encumeada 15 claims score: 39 683 Colle dell' Agnello 407 claims score: 75 521 Cabo Girao 18 claims score: 28 601 Millrütte 35 claims score: 49 684 Colle di Sampeyre 204 claims score: 69 522 Pico Arieiro 18 claims score: 66 602 106 claims score: 52 685 Il Fauniera 212 claims score: 76 523 Lagoa do Canário 1 claims score: 33 603 Schattenlagant 36 claims score: 42 686 Colle di Tenda 140 claims score: 46 524 Pico da Barrosa 1 claims score: 43 604 Hochtannbergpaß 124 claims score: 45 687 Prato Nevoso 90 claims score: 71 525 Caldeira do Faial 1 claims score: 38 605 Berwang 111 claims score: 39 688 Passo dello Spluga 255 claims score: 73 606 155 claims score: 51 689 Menarola 46 claims score: 48 ZONE 7 607 Bielerhöhe 178 claims score: 54 690 Passo di San Marco 133 claims score: 73 Switzerland 608 Möseralm 60 claims score: 53 691 Rifugio Barbara Lowrie 57 cl score: 62 526 La Barillette 70 claims score: 48 609 Pillerhöhe 119 claims score: 48 692 Val Malenco 46 claims score: 46 527 Col de la Givrine 150 claims score: 35 610 Kühtai 218 claims score: 58 693 Passo del Vivione 124 claims score: 67 528 Col du Marchairuz 150 claims score: 45 611 Ehrwalderalm 77 claims score: 45 694 Passo del Mortirolo 449 claims score: 79 529 Mont Tendre 72 claims score: 48 612 Kaunertal 110 claims score: 73 695 Passo di Foscagno 348 claims score: 53 530 Col de l'Aiguillon 73 claims score: 40 613 Rettenbachtal 110 claims score: 77 696 Passo di Gavia 554 claims score: 71 531 Vue des Alpes 114 claims score: 56 614 351 claims score: 71 697 Passo dello Stelvio 836 claims score: 83 532 Le Chasseral 90 claims score: 50 615 Mutterbergalm 31 claims score: 41 698 Val Martello 67 claims score: 55 533 Mont Soleil 75 claims score: 31 616 Speicher-Zillergründl 30 cl score: 48 699 Val Senales 58 claims score: 55 534 Noirmont 69 claims score: 44 617 Halltal 32 claims score: 46 700 Passo di Monte Giovo 296 cl score: 61 535 Montfaucon 78 claims score: 44 618 Zillertaler Höhenstraße 59 cl score: 49 701 Passo di Pennes 191 claims score: 73 536 Sur la Croix 91 claims score: 30 619 Sagalm 27 claims score: 38 702 2000 65 claims score: 68 537 Weißenstein 80 claims score: 44 620 Kitzbühler Horn 73 claims score: 83 703 Passo delle Palade 214 claims score: 56 538 Balmberg Paßhöhe 61 claims score: 49 621 Steinplatte-Kammerkör 28 cl score: 41 704 Passo della Mendola 269 cl score: 57 539 Paßwang 84 claims score: 30 622 Gerlospaß 132 claims score: 47 705 Val Genova 49 claims score: 42 540 Regensberg 60 claims score: 33 623 Staller Sattel 166 claims score: 55 706 Monte Bondone 175 claims score: 69 541 Bachtel 25 claims score: 45 624 Höhenstraße Loferer Alm 24 cl score: 46 707 Passo Manghen 235 claims score: 68 542 Hauta-Chia 25 claims score: 43 625 319 claims score: 83 708 Torri del Vajolet 85 claims score: 61 543 Col de Jaman 52 claims score: 49 626 Neues-Luckner Haus 36 claims score: 46 709 Plan de Corones 34 claims score: 66 544 Col des Mosses 161 claims score: 55 627 Volkzeiner Hütte 25 claims score: 36 710 Passo delle Erbe 284 claims score: 68 545 Col de la Croix 149 claims score: 66 628 Oscheniksee 37 claims score: 67 711 Passo di Gardena 764 claims score: 70 546 Jaunpaß 94 claims score: 42 629 Hochstein Parkplatz 43 claims score: 54 712 Passo di Sella 801 claims score: 53 547 Gurnigelpaß 38 claims score: 50 630 Dientner Sattel 75 claims score: 32 713 Passo Pordoï 851 claims score: 60 548 Glaubenbergpaß 71 claims score: 51 631 Gaisberg Straße 38 claims score: 41 714 Passo di Fedaïa 571 claims score: 61 549 Glaubenbüelenpaß 86 claims score: 55 632 Arthur Haus 28 claims score: 34 715 Passo di Valparola 641 claims score: 66 550 Ächerlipaß 49 claims score: 50 633 Zirknitztal 26 claims score: 64 716 Passo di Giau 632 claims score: 63 551 Melchsee-Frutt 42 claims score: 48 634 Plöckenpass 110 claims score: 41 717 Passo Duran 206 claims score: 60 552 Engstlenalp 42 claims score: 57 635 Jamnig Hütte 12 claims score: 43 718 Forcella Cibiana 137 claims score: 48 553 Etzelpaß 47 claims score: 36 636 Moldaublick 32 claims score: 29 719 Tre Cime Lavaredo 370 claims score: 78 554 Pragelpaß 70 claims score: 49 637 Loser Hütte 31 claims score: 49 720 Monte Zoncolan 151 claims score: 77 555 Stoß 52 claims score: 36 638 Stoderzinken 30 claims score: 49 721 Monte Paularo 37 claims score: 53 556 Schrina-Hochrugg 25 claims score: 58 639 Roßbrand 23 claims score: 35 722 Passo del Cason di Lanza 76 cl score: 52 557 Buchs-Malbun 25 claims score: 55 640 Hochwurzen Hütte 23 claims score: 48 723 Sella Carnizza 44 claims score: 45 558 Ovronnaz 59 claims score: 61 641 Tauernpaß 79 claims score: 51 724 Mataïur 22 claims score: 69 559 Col du Sanetsch 120 claims score: 66 642 Maltatal 29 claims score: 49 725 Piancavallo 47 claims score: 70 560 Lac de Tseuzier 57 claims score: 50 643 Katschberg 72 claims score: 52 726 Passo Tomba 52 claims score: 48 561 Crans-Montana 113 claims score: 56 644 Naßfeldpaß 93 claims score: 49 727 Monte Grappa 114 claims score: 64 562 Gorneren 25 claims score: 44 645 Poludniger Alm 16 claims score: 50 728 Passo Porte del Pasubio 38 cl score: 64 563 Fafleralp 39 claims score: 47 646 Turracher Höhe 89 claims score: 49 729 Passo di Campogrosso 60 cl score: 53

6 BIG Review 2011

730 Alpe Cheggio 53 claims score: 54 816 Portella dello Zoppo 11 claims score: 40 895 Cemerno 5 claims score: 39 Serbia 731 Alpe Rossonbolmo 38 claims score: 67 817 Sella Mandrazzi 27 claims score: 44 896 Mount Avala 5 claims score: 37 732 Cascata del Toce 61 claims score: 56 818 Castelmola 30 claims score: 56 897 Iriski Venac 2 claims score: 28 733 Il Mottarone 153 claims score: 63 819 Etna 46 claims score: 72 898 Kapaonik 1 claims score: 61 734 Passo Cuvignone 101 claims score: 53 820 Balestrieri 27 claims score: 49 899 Vinčina Voda 1 claims score: 40 Montenegro 735 Campo dei Fiori 95 claims score: 64 821 Passo Punta Masiennera 18 cl score: 36 900 Čakor 9 claims score: 45 736 San Martino 61 claims score: 47 822 Sporting Club Monte Spada 19 cl sc: 42 901 Orjen 2 claims score: 54 737 Passo Gran San Bernardo 272 cl sc: 72 823 Arcu Correboi 28 claims score: 37 902 Durmitor Sedlo 13 claims score: 54 738 Monte Bisbino 82 claims score: 44 824 Genna Silana 50 claims score: 42 903 Njegošev Mausolej 9 claims score: 51 739 Monte Legnoncino 51 claims score: 48 825 Serpeddi 9 claims score: 50 904 Črkvine 12 claims score: 14 Macedonia 740 Monte Croce di Muggio 44 cl score: 47 905 Popova Sapka 1 claims score: 53 741 Madonna del Ghisallo 232 cl score: 63 ZONE 10 906 Bukovo 6 claims score: 26 742 Giogo di Bala 102 claims score: 66 907 Babuna Pass 4 claims score: 31 Greece 743 Passo Coe 56 claims score: 51 826 Przehyba 27 claims score: 58 908 Vitsi 5 claims score: 48 744 Rifugio Alpo 40 claims score: 61 827 Przełęcz Okraj 52 claims score: 28 909 Lailias ski center 2 claims score: 56 745 Passo di Tremalzo 117 claims score: 50 828 Przełęcz Salmopolska 50 cl score: 28 910 Pissoderi ski center claims score: 35 746 Prati di Nago 76 claims score: 57 829 Przełęcz Krowiarki 45 claims score: 41 911 Hortiatis 3 claims score: 43 747 Telegrafo 86 claims score: 68 830 Głodowka 47 claims score: 53 912 Seli ski center 1 claims score: 52 748 Colle Garezzo 46 claims score: 58 831 Pereval Užhokskiy 4 claims score: 31 913 Pantokrator 25 claims score: 42 749 Poggio di San Remo 230 claims score: 41 832 Bukovel 1 claims score: 40 914 Prionia-Olympos 8 claims score: 56 750 La Cipressa 195 claims score: 39 833 Pereval Vyshkovskiy 5 claims score: 30 915 Megalo Papingo 2 claims score: 42 751 Colma di Sormano 34 claims score: 69 834 Pereval Nikitskiy 2 claims score: 55 916 Katara Pass 13 claims score: 49 752 Passo di Melogno 125 claims score: 53 835 Ai-Petri 1 claims score: 42 917 Great Meteoro 16 claims score: 46 753 Monte Beigua 97 claims score: 64 836 Vrbatova Bouda 52 claims score: 42 918 Pliasidhi 4 claims score: 53 754 Passo del Faiallo 127 claims score: 51 837 Špindlerova Bouda 59 claims score: 55 919 Velouchi ski center 3 claims score: 66 755 Passo della Bocchetta 74 claims score: 40 838 Suchý vrch 47 claims score: 35 920 Mount Didima 5 claims score: 45 756 Monte Penice 85 claims score: 62 839 Červenohorské Sedlo 65 claims score: 33 921 Fterolaka ski center 3 claims score: 62 757 Passo del Ghiffi 78 claims score: 78 840 Pradìd 67 claims score: 40 922 Enos de Kefalonia 5 claims score: 43 758 Colle dei Due Santi 50 claims score: 65 841 Pancíř 51 claims score: 45 923 Apollo Epikourios 5 claims score: 46 759 Passo del Cirone 57 claims score: 56 842 Klet' 53 claims score: 43 Slovakia 924 Mycenae Citadel 10 claims score: 28 760 Passo Lagastrello 69 claims score: 63 843 Ťatliakovo jazero 37 claims score: 39 925 Karabola-Parnitha 14 claims score: 49 761 Passo di Pradarena 69 claims score: 55 844 Sedlo Čertovica 46 claims score: 35 926 Oligirtos 10 claims score: 36 762 San Pellegrino in Alpe 111 cl score: 71 845 Slieszky Dom 46 claims score: 47 927 Kosmas Pass 12 claims score: 36 763 Abetone 108 claims score: 55 846 Martinské Hole 45 claims score: 54 928 Langáda Pass 13 claims score: 61 764 Croce Arcana 51 claims score: 52 847 Skalka 42 claims score: 47 929 Omalos 18 claims score: 44 765 Passo della Futa 116 claims score: 54 848 Sitno 44 claims score: 53 930 Akones 14 claims score: 50 766 Passo la Calla 86 claims score: 40 849 Panske Sedlo 30 claims score: 38 Hungary 931 Idéón Antron14 claims score: 34 767 Passo dei Mandrioli 91 claims score: 46 850 Dobogókő 92 claims score: 43 932 Giouhtas8 claims score: 35 768 Valico Monte Fumaïolo 65 cl score: 42 San Marino 851 Galyatető 64 claims score: 41 933 Asfendilia 8 claims score: 41 769 San Marino 152 claims score: 60 Italy 852 Kékestető 86 claims score: 49 934 Dikteon Andre 14 claims score: 29 Bulgaria 770 Santuario della Verna 74 cl score: 35 853 Pannonhalma 44 claims score: 30 935 Aleko-Vitosha 17 claims score: 51 771 Bocca Trabária 59 claims score: 42 854 Felsõ-Borovnyák 47 claims score: 32 936 Trojanski Prohod 5 claims score: 48 772 Monte Amiata 84 claims score: 60 855 Misina 43 claims score: 43 Romania 937 Sipcenski Prohod 9 claims score: 46 773 Monte Argentario 42 claims score: 33 856 Pasul Prislop 33 claims score: 36 938 Maljovica Complex 16 claims score: 36 774 Montelupone 6 claims score: 33 857 Pasul Tihuta 27 claims score: 32 939 Rilski Manastir 21 claims score: 37 775 Sella di Leonessa 69 claims score: 66 858 Pasul Ciumarna 24 claims score: 33 940 Rožen Manastir 21 claims score: 31 776 Forca Canapine 74 claims score: 52 859 Pasul Rarãu 17 claims score: 47 941 Popski Preslop 21 claims score: 42 777 Forca di Presta 74 claims score: 47 860 Pasul Bicaz 40 claims score: 40 942 Snežhanka 12 claims score: 68 Albania 778 Gran Sasso d'Italia 93 claims score: 67 861 Páltinis 35 claims score: 42 943 Rožafá 4 claims score: 32 779 Campo Felice 21 claims score: 41 862 Pasul Bàlea 76 claims score: 54 944 Qafá ë Llogorasë 4 claims score: 38 Cyprus 780 Monte Perone 36 claims score: 39 863 Pasul Bran 41 claims score: 41 945 Chryssorrogiatissa 15 claims score: 50 781 Campo Staffi 24 claims score: 40 864 Stana de Vale 38 claims score: 36 946 Makarios Gravel 18 claims score: 40 782 Campo Catino 14 claims score: 48 865 Pasul Bratocea 23 claims score: 30 Russian 947 Olympus 23 claims score: 61 783 Passo del Diavolo 53 claims score: 41 Federation 948 Adelphi 13 claims score: 46 784 Forca d'Acero 43 claims score: 56 866 Akhun 0 claims score: 47 949 Makheras 15 claims score: 51 785 Valico Monte Godi 53 claims score: 46 867 Pereval Beloretski 0 claims score: 30 950 Stavrovoùni 16 claims score: 33 786 Blockhaus della Maïella 67 cl score: 78 868 Pereval Gumbashi 0 claims score: 45 787 Monte Carpegna 69 claims score: 67 869 Suur Munamägi 2 claims score: 23 ZONE12 (free >500m) 788 Monte Sant'Angelo 34 claims score: 54 870 Gaizinkalns 2 claims score: 21 951-960 : North America 789 Abazzia di Montecassino 29 cl score: 49 871 Aukstojas 3 claims score: 15 961-970 : Asia 790 Campitello Matese 20 claims score: 50 872 Dzaržhynskaya Hara 0 claims score: 20 971-980 : Africa 791 Sella di Perrone 23 claims score: 50 873 Bălanesti Dealul 0 claims score: 13 Georgia 981-990 : South America 792 Monte Taburno 14 claims score: 63 874 Djvaris Ughelt 1 claims score: 59 991-1000 : Oceania 793 Monte Vergine 17 claims score: 75 875 Zkhrats Karo 1 claims score: 49 794 Vesuvio 32 claims score: 62 Legend(e) 795 Monte Nerone 61 claims score: 67 ZONE11 796 Picco Sant'Angelo 27 claims score: 41 Claims = amount of visits, nombre de visites 797 Monte Faito 18 claims score: 66 876 Vršič 132 claims score: 52 798 Cima Mutali 27 claims score: 42 877 Rogla 15 claims score: 52 Score = maximum 100 points, incl. 799 Monte Vulture 16 claims score: 52 878 Mariborsko Pohorje 15 claims score: 40 max. 40 pts difficulty + max.20 pts bomb + max 20 pts 800 Monte Sacro o Gélbison 10 cl score: 62 879 Črnivec 29 claims score: 34 cycling History + max 20 pts tourism 801 Monte Armizzone 7 claims score: 38 880 Mangrtško Sedlo 79 claims score: 57 802 Colle del Dragone 10 claims score: 53 881 Pavličevo Sedlo 27 claims score: 41 803 Serra di Tuono 10 claims score: 56 882 šljeme 19 claims score: 48 804 Passo Crocetta 11 claims score: 37 883 Učka Vojak 34 claims score: 52 805 Botte Donato 13 claims score: 56 884 Motovun 36 claims score: 25 806 Colle d'Ascione 13 claims score: 32 885 Vratnik 31 claims score: 33 807 Stazione Forestale-Latteria 8 cl score: 51 886 Óltare 20 claims score: 40 808 Monte Sirino 14 claims score: 59 887 Stara Vrata 25 claims score: 45 809 Passo de Pietra Spada 12 cl score: 52 888 Nevoljas Pass 13 claims score: 34 810 Monte Alto Cocuzza 8 claims score: 62 889 Sveti Jure 21 claims score: 55 Bosnia-Herzegovina 811 Portella di Bova 4 claims score: 51 890 Kupreška Vrata 7 claims score: 38 812 Erice 24 claims score: 41 891 Makljen 11 claims score: 23 813 Monte Pellegrino 33 claims score: 38 892 Mrakoviča 5 claims score: 41 814 Carbonara 21 claims score: 46 893 Jahorina 2 claims score: 47 815 Portella Femmina Morta 18 cl score: 45 894 Metaljka 6 claims score: 46

7 BIG Review 2011

GENERAL CLASSEMENT 58 FRANCK Jacques 251 claims 139 DAVARE Andrea 148 claims 59 BENISTRAND Claude 250 claims 140 BAAS Peter 146 claims 31/12/2010 60 PELISSIER Michel 248 claims 141 VAN DONGEN Gerard 145 claims 142 RINGELENBERG Martin 145 claims 61 HINK Mark 247 claims 143 SCHOKKER Roelof 145 claims BIG 18 62 DEVRIES Maarten (X) 247 claims 144 LLUSA MAS Jordi 144 claims 1 LUCAS Eric 939 claims 63 BOSDIJK Rob 245 claims 145 SIRET Françoise 144 claims 64 NILSON Jerry 241 claims 146 DELAHAIE LIONEL 144 claims 147 SANTA Enzo 143 claims BIG 16 BIG 5 148 FARAZIJN Peter 142 claims 149 DEKKERS Helmuth 142 claims 2 MAYEUR Etienne 849 claims 65 SALA Roger 236 claims 150 DE BRUIJN Jerry 141 claims 66 LINNERT Heiko 235 claims 151 FERNANDEZ Gabriel 141 claims BIG 12 67 CIJSOUW Jakob 235 claims 152 HOIBOOM Stefan 140 claims 3 VAN ELS Wim 644 claims 68 CAPELLANI Luigi 235 claims 153 VAN DEN BREE Fred 140 claims 4 JACQUEMIN Alain 643 claims 69 ARTS Albert 235 claims 154 VERMEULEN Paul 140 claims 70 GEENENS Germain (+) 230 claims 155 SERVAIS Jean 139 claims 5 BRENNER Karl 604 claims 156 PORTA Albert 139 claims 71 GIACOMAZZI Daniele 225 claims 157 BLONK Patrick 137 claims 72 MATTE Jean-Luc 224 claims BIG 11 158 LEROY Fons 136 claims 73 SMOUT Jean-Louis 223 claims 159 BERNEGGER Klaus 136 claims 6 JACQUEMIN Dominique 569 74 DEMIGUEL Jesus 222 claims 160 BENISTRAND Catherine 134 claims claims 75 SASTRE CANDIL Carlos 222 claims 161 VANSTEENBRUGGE Luc 134 claims 7 SPEED Kevin 550 claims 76 BRUNETTI Gabriele 221 claims 162 VEERMAN Wim 133 claims 163 KARLOVITZ Kristof 133 claims 77 SCHILLEMANS Coen 221 claims 164 OSTORERO Franco 133 claims BIG 10 78 VAN DE WOUWER Kurt 220 claims 165 KLEIJNENBURG Pim 131 claims 8 VAN AMEIJDEN Richard 516 79 HERNOT Bertrand 219 claims 166 MARIANI Danilo 131 claims 80 DECROUY Gérard 219 claims 167 SCOTTO Giuseppe 131 claims claims 81 VANDENKIEBOOM Guy 217 claims 168 URIBARRI Juanto 131 claims ______82 KOEDIJKER Hans 217 claims 169 VANOVERBEKE Joel 131 claims 170 LOS Bart 130 claims BIG 9 83 HANSEN Rob 216 claims 9 OOSTRA Ard 462 claims 171 LEUFKENS Jos 130 claims 84 BEEKMAN Aart 216 claims 172 BUURMAN Henk 130 claims 85 SOLENNI Gianni 215 claims 173 YASSE Fernand 129 claims BIG 8 86 RECKHAUS Juergen 215 claims 174 JANSEN Michael 128 claims 10 PLAINE Patrick 424 claims 87 VERKUIJLEN Tineke 207 claims 175 PAGANI Flavio 127 claims 11 TAYLOR Martin 413 claims 88 KOOL Martin 205 claims 176 LEQUIEN Abel 127 claims 177 BOKHORST Jantine 126 claims 12 VERLAET Johan 405 claims 89 ALBERINI Enrico 204 claims 13 OLDEMAN Gerrit-Rudolf 405 cl. 178 DEARTEAGA NOHET Jose-Luis 125 cl 90 VANSTIPHOUT Dominique 203 cl. 179 DHONDT Etienne 125 claims 14 RUIZ-OPITZ Mario 399 claims 91 EPIARD Christian 200 claims 180 OPOLECKY Hynek 124 claims 15 SOMMER-Brenner Claudia 398 cl. 92 DEMIGUEL Juanjo 200 claims 181 LE CORRE Christian 124 claims 16 NOTTEN Peter 396 claims 93 SALA Chantal 197 claims 182 BERETTA Massimo 124 claims 17 NOTTEN Jean-Pierre 396 claims 94 WILLEM Luc 195 claims 183 VIDEAU Christian 123 claims 184 BOOGERD Michael 122 claims 18 SPINA Luigi 393 claims 95 NIMMEGEERS Stefaan 194 claims 19 HUL Philip 392 claims 185 DESGAIN Gaetan 122 claims 96 DESENDER Marc 194 claims 186 ANDRE Gilles 121 claims 20 RAFOLS Frederic 363 claims 97 MICHIELS Ludo 192 claims 187 DEGRELLE Philippe 121 claims 21 DEJACE Jules 361 claims 98 BRUGMAN, Meindert 192 claims 188 HERNALSTEEN Jan 121 claims 99 ANTXUSTEGI Aitor 192 claims 189 BRIZZI Romano 121 claims BIG 7 100 DEMAESSCHALCK Patrick 191 cl. 190 HOUBEN Piet 121 claims 191 TENANT Jean-Luc 120 claims 22 VAN HECKE Marnix 352 claims 101 BERNARD Patrick 191 claims 23 GOBERT Daniel 352 claims 102 MONTEFUSCO Claudio 191 claims BIG 3 24 PIRET Véronique 351 claims 103 COGGE Marc 187 claims 192 CORSINI Claudio Fabrizio 119 claims 25 VAN LONKHUYZEN Michiel 350 cl. 104 RUDAZ Andre 186 claims 193 GOMEZ AUSIN Eduardo 119 claims 26 OTEMAN Luc 345 claims 105 GYÖRGYI Gabor 186 claims 194 MERITET Laurent 118 claims 27 CANDAU François 341 claims 106 VIERFOND Mickael 186 claims 195 NIHOUL Olivier 118 claims 196 LETTERMANN Jacques 118 claims 28 PARTHOENS Jean 338 claims 107 BOGAERT Luc 184 claims 29 ESCUER MESTRES Nuria 336 claims 197 MOSSELMAN Marnix 118 claims 108 ODENA TORRENT Xavier 183 cl. 198 SUPLICZ Ferenc 118 claims 30 CHOZAS Eduardo 331 claims 109 MAREUIL Bernard 181 claims 199 HARTE Vincent 117 claims 31 WINTER Charles 311 claims 110 FROGNEUX Bernard 181 claims 200 REPETTI Mauro 117 claims 32 DUPEYROUX Olivier 310 claims 111 HOCHULI Olivier 180 claims 201 STOFFELS Joost 116 claims 33 TORELLI Cecilia 308 claims 112 BERTING Tom 178 claims 202 VERMEULEN Filip 116 claims 203 ROSSINI Georges 116 claims 34 CANDELI Luigi 304 claims 113 BERTING Corrie 178 claims 35 SEGUY Marc 304 claims 204 GILSON Paul 116 claims 114 OH Luddo 173 claims 205 GROUX Jean-Pierre 115 claims 36 LAVIEVILLE Bernard 300 claims 115 DE WALEFFE Vincent 172 claims 206 BEUDIN Patrick 114 claims 116 GASPAROROCCA Sergio(+) 169 cl. 207 CUCCONI Gianni 114 claims BIG 6 117 SCHUYER Roland 169 claims 208 PRUIJSEN Rolf 113 claims 37 BRIOLLET Daniel 297 claims 118 LEBACQ Bernard 168 claims 209 COUCKE Raphaël 112 claims 210 RODILLA Izascun 112 claims 38 JACQUEMIN Gilles 297 claims 119 SCHILLEWAERT Pierre 166 claims 39 ADAM Jean-Pierre 294 claims 211 GUILLEM Jaume 112 claims 120 BERNER Max 166 claims 212 CORNE Jean 112 claims 40 HILSON Daniel 286 claims 121 DECOSTRE Arnaud 164 claims 213 ODORICO Michel 112 claims 41 COSIALS Xavier 279 claims 122 KREICSI Gabor 164 claims 214 SCHOELINK Hans 111 claims 42 BERASATEGI Ruben 276 claims 123 TIMMERMANS John 164 claims 215 CROZAZ Pascale 110 claims 43 JACQUEMIN Renaud 274 claims 124 MAYEUR Raymond(+) 164 claims 216 WEIGEND Robert 110 claims 217 ROTA Piero (+) 109 claims 44 PEETERS Marc 270 claims 125 BAFICO Emanuele 164 claims 45 MENARD Michel 270 claims 218 KAUHANEN Raimo 108 claims 219 MAGRI Domenico 108 claims 46 DEWEZ Rudy 270 claims BIG 4 220 VINCZE Gabor 107 claims 47 MORALES GARCIA Angel 269 cl. 126 TIMMERMANS Wil 163 claims 221 WERNER Alphonse 107 claims 48 CATTANEO Luciano 267 claims 127 BIANCHI Simone 162 claims 222 LAURENT Jean 107 claims 49 BOYENK Arnold 261 claims 128 BOSC Henri 159 claims 223 MULLER Theo 106 claims 129 HUNZIKER Hanspeter 159 claims 224 BADONNEL Christophe 106 claims 50 GRIMSTVEIT Leif 261 claims 130 JANSEN Axel 158 claims 51 LALOUX Michel 260 claims 225 RICKHAUS Dietrich 106 claims 131 SVEHLIK Karel 158 claims 226 GROUX Michele 106 claims 52 GILLODES Alain 260 claims 132 LONGO Jeannie 156 claims 227 ANGERER Elisabeth 106 claims 53 CASOLARI Bortolomeo 258 claims 133 TALLOEN Esteban 156 claims 228 TOLBOOM Michiel 105 claims 54 SAINZ-PENA Luis Miguel 255 cl. 134 KUBELE Petr 155 claims 229 JOYA, Xavier 105 claims 55 BRUFFAERTS Jose 254 claims 135 FERRARIS Alberto 154 claims 230 GILSON Philippe 105 claims 136 DAVID Lionel 152 claims 231 MARSZALEK Daniel 105 claims 56 VANDENBUSSCHE Tom 253 claims 137 BIERBOOMS Wim 149 claims 57 JACQUEMIN Julien 252 claims 232 MONTANI Matteo 104 claims 138 GIELEN Walter 148 claims 233 SKALA Mojmir 104 claims

8 BIG Review 2011

234 HONORE Patrick 103 claims 333 RENAUX Didier 80 claims 434 FOURNIER Bernard 66 claims 235 CRAMAY Daniel 103 claims 334 HERMES Benno 80 claims 435 NEKKERS Herman 66 claims 236 BENISTAND pascal 103 claims 335 CONTI Jean-Louis 79 claims 436 PONS Ivo 66 claims 237 BOUVIER Frédéric 103 claims 336 LACHAUME Herve 79 claims 437 GUIJARRO ORDONEZ Rafael 66 claims 238 JACQUEMIN Odile 103 claims 337 STANEKE Jan Batist 79 claims 438 BERNABE OSCURO Miguel 66 claims 239 BOLLEN Koen 103 claims 338 LUTGEN Jean-Marc 79 claims 439 SZILAGYI Andras 66 claims 240 VAN MUYLEM Thijs 102 claims 339 MOGGIA Pietro 78 claims 440 DE MITS Eddy 66 claims 241 VAN DEN BERG Jim 102 claims 340 MOSER Thomas 78 claims 441 GREVINK Bernard (+) 66 claims 242 DINOIA Lele 102 claims 341 PUPIER Joel 77 claims 442 KSIAZKIEWICZ Michal 65 claims 243 CORNET Bernadette 102 claims 342 ALMANZOR Michel 77 claims 443 TUYTEL Cees 65 claims 244 MANIQUET Pierre 102 claims 343 VAN'T HOF Eibert 77 claims 444 DOGLIANI Franck 65 claims 245 CARRO Ruben 102 claims 344 DE COCK Gerrit 77 claims 445 PATEREAU Pascal 65 claims 246 MOCCIA Carmine 102 claims 345 GROOTJEN Nico 77 claims 446 GUILLEE Philippe 65 claims 247 MEIRESONNE Jaap 102 claims 346 GALAJDA Jan 77 claims 447 VAN DEN BROEK Peter 65 claims 248 RAMOS-ORTEGA Jose-M. 101 claims 347 RIVIERE Daniel 77 claims 448 MOLS Raf 65 claims 249 SOLANS BENEITO Jose 101 claims 348 BORSJE Martin 77 claims 449 DUBOCCAGE Frank 64 claims 250 CHATEL Pierre 101 claims 349 RUHLMANN Pascal 77 claims 450 FEYS Steven 64 claims 251 DELEU Krist 100 claims 350 VAN SANTEN Mart 77 claims 451 MAGGIONI Roberto 64 claims 252 VERBRUGH Joop 100 claims 351 BREGANTE Vicenzo 77 claims 452 BRIGANTE Francesco 64 claims 253 HENSING Xander 99 claims 352 BLANCO GARCIA Antonio 76 claims 453 RONCONI Davide 64 claims 254 VAN WOERKOM Hans 99 claims 353 STAUDMEISTER Frank 76 claims 454 HOOFS Ton 64 claims 255 ROCHER Jean-Louis 99 claims 354 POSTMA Henk 76 claims 455 BRANS Rom 64 claims 256 DUFFHUES Jan 98 claims 355 RIJNBEEK Dennis 75 claims 456 BERENDSE Gerard 64 claims 257 BUERMANS Maurice 98 claims 356 VAN WEVERENBERGH Bruno 75 cl. 457 HIRSCH Wolfgang 63 claims 258 TERWEL Franck 97 claims 357 DEMAEYER Armand 75 claims 458 LEROY Henk 63 claims 259 DUHALT Michel 97 claims 358 DASSOW Ralf 75 claims 459 BUSCHMANN Dirk 63 claims 260 KIESEKOMS Danny 97 claims 359 DE DOBBELEER Davy 75 claims 460 SPAGNOLLI Diego 63 claims 261 VAN SCHAIK Ronald 97 claims 360 DE DOBBELEER Jordy 75 claims 461 ANJEL Karl 62 claims 262 GIRAUDEAU Bernard 97 claims 361 DIETEREN Nicole 75 claims 462 GADIOU Pierre 62 claims 263 LARCIER Bernard 97 claims 362 DEN BLANKEN Arie 75 claims 463 KAAL Joeri 62 claims 264 GESSAGHI Mario 96 claims 363 HESSE Daniel 75 claims 464 GEORGE Nathalie 62 claims 265 DAVIES Will 96 claims 364 JANSEN, Barry 75 claims 465 APPEL Martin 62 claims 266 VAN ALFEN Rene 95 claims 365 BALAZS Abraham 74 claims 466 NAU Michel (+) 62 claims 267 VAN DER WAL Michiel 95 claims 366 GOMES-MARTINS MUÑOZ August 74 467 VAN GINKEL John 62 claims 268 VON HEYDEBRECK Anja 95 claims 367 STOOPS Jos 74 claims 468 THIERIG Rob 62 claims 269 FANTONI Renato 95 claims 368 WOLSING Robert 74 claims 469 RIDDER John 62 claims 270 LABOUR Thierry 95 claims 369 DREDEMY Xavier 74 claims 470 CASAS-ARAGON Jose 62 claims 271 MAIGRET Philippe 95 claims 370 BOYER Patrick 74 claims 471 VERMEIJ Dick 62 claims 272 TUSVELD Jos 95 claims 371 DE DOBBELEER Jürgen 74 claims 472 GOMEZ, Manel 62 claims 273 FEIKEN Bert 94 claims 372 DREDEMY Marie 74 claims 473 ZAPPATERRA Ezzelino 61 claims 274 ESTOPINA Guy 94 claims 373 SEGUIN Jean 74 claims 474 MERTENS Kees 61 claims 275 BACCANELLI Renato 93 claims 374 FEENSTRA Hans 74 claims 475 JAMBERS Paul 61 claims 276 CARRERAS Jean-Pierre 92 claims 375 BUCHMUELLER Fraenck 74 claims 476 NOIRET Pierre 61 claims 277 CATALINA Carlos Roberto 92 claims 376 SLUITER Rene 74 claims 477 KUIJTEN Piet 61 claims 278 HARLE Guy 92 claims 377 CIRLA Nero 73 claims 478 WIERENGA Piet 61 claims 279 BOUILLOT Guy 91 claims 378 MOS Ruud 73 claims 479 HAKEMULDER Ruud 61 claims 280 HOOGEVEEN Huub 91 claims 379 ETIENNE Stef 73 claims 480 BROWN Michael 61 claims 281 NADAL Carles 91 claims 380 STANEKE Rens 73 claims 481 COKELAERE Johan 61 claims 282 LEGAL Patrice 91 claims 381 VERDENIUS Jeroen 73 claims 482 KUTEK Jaroslav 61 claims 283 VODDE Willem 91 claims 382 BIANCHI Giovanni 73 claims 483 MAZON DEL CAMPO Carlos 61 cl. 284 VEUL Henk 91 claims 383 VANLANEN Wibo 72 claims 484 BRIQUET Jean-Philippe 61 claims 285 DE MUNNIK Rodrick 90 claims 384 GILSON Armand 72 claims 485 NAPOLETANO Claudio 61 claims 286 HUURDEMAN Walrick 90 claims 385 KNORRE Frank 72 claims 486 VAN MOORSEL Godfried 61 claims 287 CHARRON Julien 90 claims 386 STOELZAET Jamien 72 claims 487 BERNAUER Jean 61 claims 288 ISPAN Istvan 90 claims 387 DEN DIKKEN Alexander 72 claims 488 GELUK Ary 61 claims 289 SPYSSCHAERT Anthony 90 claims 388 LAMY Michel 72 claims 489 DE VREUGD Peter 61 claims 290 GOOIJER Frans 90 claims 389 TORO Gianluca 72 claims 490 RYGAERTS Gérard 60 claims 291 MALY Jan 90 claims 390 CUDET Daniel 71 claims 491 DOMONKOS Gyorgy 60 claims 391 RIVOAL François 71 claims 492 MOHIMONT André 60 claims BIG 2 392 MANK Rolf 71 claims 493 ADVOCAAT Remko 60 claims 292 LANGERAK Jacco 89 claims 393 VOLGER Erik 71 claims 494 WYNANTS Patrick 60 claims 293 HERMSEN Jan 89 claims 394 ROVERATO Paolo 71 claims 495 DAMEN Gerd 60 claims 294 ANDEL Zbynek 89 claims 395 CLEMENTS Edwin 71 claims 496 KAMSTRA Martijn 60 claims 295 POST Rob 89 claims 396 SENDEN René 71 claims 497 POLATO Enrico 60 claims 296 SIMONI Alberto 88 claims 397 FUHRBACH Christoph 71 claims 297 BIRELLI Gérard 88 claims 398 DAMAN Gunther 71 claims BIG 1 298 RUTTEN Xavier 88 claims 399 LOPEZ PRIETO Angel 71 claims 498 PLUM Martin 59 claims 299 MERTENS Jos 88 claims 400 UBALD Kragten 71 claims 499 BOUCAR Michel 59 claims 300 ROSSONI Ivano 87 claims 401 CRUNELLE Paulin 70 claims 500 BOVO Stefano 59 claims 301 WEISS Niels 87 claims 402 CORNELLI Giuseppe 70 claims 501 VAN BREUGEL Lubbert 59 claims 302 VALLEJO PARTE Luis Fernando 87 cl 403 FUCHS Gerhard 70 claims 502 BIEBAUW Krist 59 claims 303 ECKERT Walter 86 claims 404 FURON Remi 70 claims 503 STALLMACH Matthias 59 claims 304 MURATORI MAURO 86 claims 405 BORGHOMS Guy 70 claims 504 CARPENTIER Michael 59 claims 305 RENWART Michel 85 claims 406 CARANI Benedetto 70 claims 505 ABBÁ Christian 59 claims 306 TRAVE Walter 84 claims 407 LLUCH José Antonio 70 claims 506 RAAIJMAKERS Kaj 59 claims 307 SCHOOT Hugo 84 claims 408 FRANCK Andre 70 claims 507 TOGNI Giancarlo 59 claims 308 DE WEIJER Ingmar 84 claims 409 PUIG Jorge 70 claims 508 BOHUS Igor 59 claims 309 KOREVAAR Rens 84 claims 410 VAN TSLOT arjen 69 claims 509 ZENDRERA ZARIQUIEY Fernando 59 310 TRONCY Anthony 84 claims 411 HILD Marie-Paule 69 claims 510 GATOUILLAT DANIEL 58 claims 311 RADERMACHER Michael 84 claims 412 CORTES CANO Xavier 69 claims 511 NIJHUIS Jeroen 58 claims 312 PANZA Jean-François 84 claims 413 PIETERSMA Edwin 69 claims 512 METTROP Ivan 58 claims 313 JANSEN Gerrit-Yme 84 claims 414 POST Martin 69 claims 513 GRAF Dieter 58 claims 314 MARTINS Juris 84 claims 415 FREZIN Olivier 69 claims 514 HUS Dick 58 claims 315 SIMON Laurent 84 claims 416 GUZZINATI Marco 69 claims 515 DAANE Bert 58 claims 316 CERA Bruno 84 claims 417 PLOMB Rudy 69 claims 516 KROON Henk 58 claims 317 EISENBURGER Tom 83 claims 418 SPEICH Mike 68 claims 517 MATTHIJSSE Sjako 58 claims 318 CASTAGNOLI Giordano 83 claims 419 KROL Thomas 68 claims 518 DINGEMANS Frank 58 claims 319 BECKERS Bertus 83 claims 420 ZAAL Brenda 68 claims 519 BURGER Patrick 58 claims 320 TIGNON Andre 83 claims 421 SPICCHI DANIELE 68 claims 520 MAAS Marlou 57 claims 321 ISOARDO Tommaso 82 claims 422 KLEIJBURG Menno 67 claims 521 GELEDAN Eric 57 claims 322 ANDELT Radek 82 claims 423 HOOGEVEEN Mark 67 claims 522 KNIP Aaldrik Otto 57 claims 323 KORST Jan 82 claims 424 TUR SERRET David 67 claims 523 JESUS BENEDE AISA 57 claims 324 HILHORST Peter 82 claims 425 THOMAS Pete 67 claims 524 FEARN Herve 57 claims 325 DEDEURWAERDERE Luc 82 claims 426 SCHUURMAN Eiko 67 claims 525 BAILLEUL Michel 57 claims 326 BEIJERS Henk 81 claims 427 LEROYER Roland 66 claims 526 PIELAGE Joost 56 claims 327 PHILIPPI Hans 81 claims 428 LOPEZ GARCIA Merche 66 claims 527 MEDEMA Lieuwe 56 claims 328 VAN HERZEELE Johan 81 claims 429 DIJKMAN Ruud 66 claims 528 SOMMEN Ron 56 claims 329 COMAS Pau 81 claims 430 AARD Miki 66 claims 529 VANIS Pavel 56 claims 330 VEUL Ria 81 claims 431 LEONE Giuseppe 66 claims 530 HAASJES Albert 56 claims 331 PAVANELLI Tullio 80 claims 432 GUILLOBEZ Serge 66 claims 531 RIDDER John 56 claims 332 MAUROY Gérard 80 claims 433 OLIVERO Alberto 66 claims 532 GIMENEZ Toni 56 claims

9 BIG Review 2011

533 MARGHERITA Franco 56 claims 634 DIBONA Marco 49 claims 735 DE VRIES Gert-Jan 43 claims 534 SIGRIST Martin 56 claims 635 HANSEN Erik 49 claims 736 PEÑA CATAN Monica 43 claims 535 DIJKSMAN Marten 56 claims 636 MARIN MARTINEZ Fabio 49 claims 737 GIELISSEN Wolfgang 43 claims 536 KOEHORST Frank 56 claims 637 EISENBURGER Bart 49 claims 738 CABARET Ton 43 claims 537 MOGA Claudiu 56 claims 638 LE GOFF Arnaud 49 claims 739 HUSSON Olga 43 claims 538 JANSSEN Aldo 56 claims 639 BROEX Bart 49 claims 740 LATOUCHE Guy 43 claims 539 MARTINET Federico 55 claims 640 DAEMS Jef 49 claims 741 BURSIK Pavel 42 claims 540 CASANOVA Jean-Pierre 55 claims 641 GURRITXAGA ZUBIMENDI Inaki 49 742 THIRY Lenaic 42 claims 541 PISON Eligio 55 claims 642 PELOMORO Giorgio 49 claims 743 RATTI Alessandro 42 claims 542 VECHT Juda 55 claims 643 MOSCA Paolo 48 claims 744 VERSTEEG Tim 42 claims 543 VARON Javier 55 claims 644 FUSTER FOZ Maria 48 claims 745 MAYER Ed 42 claims 544 SINTZOFF Paul 55 claims 645 CLARKE Patrick 48 claims 746 PUSKAS Aladár 42 claims 545 CERUTI Luigi 55 claims 646 EETEN Stephan van 48 claims 747 KOELEWIJN Dick 42 claims 546 DONDERS Patricia 55 claims 647 RUHLMANN Jean-Luc 48 claims 748 VANDAELE Jos 42 claims 547 LEWIN Nigel 55 claims 648 ARIAS Siro 48 claims 749 RUDOLF Martin 42 claims 548 DEGLI ESPOSTI Franco 55 claims 649 ZONNEVELD Marcel 48 claims 750 DE ZEEUW Rob 42 claims 549 GRIEVINK Gerrit 55 claims 650 VEFFER Arnold 48 claims 751 GERLACH Thomas 42 claims 550 GOUDELOUF Willy 55 claims 651 ENDERLE Harald 48 claims 752 PRANGER Piet 42 claims 551 SUCHARDA Pavel 55 claims 652 FUNES GOTOR Jesus 48 claims 753 PUSKAS Zoltan 42 claims 552 VERSCHEURE Jean-Louis 55 claims 653 HEFNER Hans-Peter 48 claims 754 VORBERG Thomas 42 claims 553 VAN DEN BERGH Matthias 55 claims 654 COLLOMBON Lucien 48 claims 755 SCHYNS Gilbert 42 claims 554 AROSIO Emilio 55 claims 655 BUIJS Marco 48 claims 756 ECKHARDT Alexander 42 claims 555 BACKES Guy Louis 55 claims 656 SENECHAL Philippe 48 claims 757 HUYSMANS Jasper 41 claims 556 GERSCHING Jürgen 54 claims 657 FERRARETTO Antonio 48 claims 758 FRANKE Thomas 41 claims 557 BERTI Elio 54 claims 658 BERTI Elio 48 claims 759 BERKHOUT Ernest 41 claims 558 BONNEFONT Noël 54 claims 659 BIJLSMA Kasper 48 claims 760 BOLLEN Stijn 41 claims 559 DE GROOT Jan Peter 54 claims 660 SINET Etienne 48 claims 761 FELLIN Pierre 41 claims 560 HAYEZ Maximilien 54 claims 661 DE GROOT Jaap 48 claims 762 MEESTER Robert 41 claims 561 JELOYAN Vrage 54 claims 662 HULSEBOS Arjan 48 claims 763 SANCHEZ Ismael 41 claims 562 ZUCCOLI Roberto 54 claims 663 SMIT Marijn 48 claims 764 AYZA FERRERES Xavier 41 claims 563 BERGERO Sandro 54 claims 664 VONK Marco 47 claims 765 ALLEMEERSCH Kris 41 claims 564 PANZA Ernesto 54 claims 665 THOLLIEZ Jean-Pierre 47 claims 766 LÜKÕ Zoltan 41 claims 565 OUDEN Rob 54 claims 666 BUDESINSKY Tomas 47 claims 767 SICIGNANO Alberto 41 claims 566 OUDSHOORN Co 54 claims 667 WOOD Alan 47 claims 768 VIANELLO Pierangelo 41 claims 567 VANDEWALLE Pierre 54 claims 668 RAVENSBERGEN Margriet 47 claims 769 ALVAREZ Fernando 41 claims 568 JACQUEMIN Jean-Pierre 54 claims 669 KNODLER Andreas 47 claims 770 VIALLE Jean-Michel 41 claims 569 DAUWE Charles 53 claims 670 DERKSEN Michiel 47 claims 771 LINNERT Finn 41 claims 570 FALTER Jean-Marc 53 claims 671 MORAVEC Kamil 47 claims 772 DOGLIO Eligio 41 claims 571 TIMMERMANS Paul 53 claims 672 SCHUURMAN Marijn 47 claims 773 LEDVINKA Jaroslav 41 claims 572 HUBER Tamas 53 claims 673 ISNARD Henri 47 claims 774 CALLEBAUT Mathias 41 claims 573 ELSEN Georges 53 claims 674 LAVASTRE Willy 47 claims 775 LEKEU Jacques 41 claims 574 SPAUWEN Ruvar 53 claims 675 MACHIELS Jean-Marie 47 claims 776 DICK Pierre 41 claims 575 MARIST Serge 53 claims 676 DE WINTER Bert 47 claims 777 PAVLATA Michal 41 claims 576 VAN DEN OUDEN Rob 53 claims 677 ZAMBAZ Eric 47 claims 778 RODRIGUEZ MEIRINO Alberto 41 577 FERNANDEZ Juan-Gregorio 53 cla. 678 COUGOULE Marc 47 claims 779 SCHUL Jean-Pol 41 claims 578 BRAZIER Mark 53 claims 679 FERRICCHIO Angelo 47 claims 780 ALLARD Thierry 41 claims 579 HOLDERBEKE Marc 53 claims 680 VAN DE WETERINGE Frank 47 cl. 781 REZZONICO Fabio 41 claims 580 MIDDLEMISS Ken 53 claims 681 SPAPPERI Gabrio 47 claims 782 PEEK Marcel 40 claims 581 VAN NASSAU Arjan 53 claims 682 STEGEN Joris 47 claims 783 PERUGINI Andrea 40 claims 582 D'HAENE Pieter 52 claims 683 GRANLUND Fredrik 47 claims 784 PREVOST Francine 40 claims 583 MARTIN VIDAL Luis Manuel 52 cl. 684 NAGY Zoltan 46 claims 785 DELVESCOVO Andrea 40 claims 584 NUTTE Gautier 52 claims 685 COSTA Joao Paulo 46 claims 786 HANSEN José 40 claims 585 LODEWIJK Cees 52 claims 686 WEKEMA Johan 46 claims 787 CLAUDE Jean 40 claims 586 TENWOLDE Daan 52 claims 687 CATALDI Giacomo 46 claims 788 CALIANO Antonio 40 claims 587 VAN DER PLAETSE Jan 52 claims 688 STULENS Ward 46 claims 789 CRESSANT Jacques 40 claims 588 HIDDEMA Oege 52 claims 689 VANSTREELS Miel 46 claims 790 BRAMANTE Luca 40 claims 589 DE RUYCK Wouter 52 claims 690 VAN DEN BERG Joost 46 claims 791 CAIRO ANDRES Josep Maria 40 cl. 590 MAYMÓ LÓPEZ Alexandre 52 claims 691 Mc LOUGHLIN Dave 46 claims 792 MAZZETTI Alberto 40 claims 591 MARION Jerome 52 claims 692 FAILLET Dominique 46 claims 793 STAVENUITER Mark 40 claims 592 MASSABE CASABONA Raul 52 claims 693 DE SUTTER Koen 46 claims 794 GOZZOLI Massimo 40 claims 593 VERD Michel 52 claims 694 VAN ERTBRUGGEN Bertil 45 claims 795 TUSVELD Martijn 40 claims 594 COLOMER SALGUEDA Josep 52 cl. 695 CATTIN Jean-Paul 45 claims 796 GONZALEZ Inigo 40 claims 595 ROSENKRANZ Frank 52 claims 696 GALACHE Frances 45 claims 797 TRANSATLANTYK Marek 39 claims 596 VAN DER VEEK Ronald 52 claims 697 VIGUERAS SANCHEZ Francisco G 45 798 VAN WOERDEN Maxim 39 claims 597 VAN DEN BRANDE Bart 51 claims 698 ELADIO Esteban 45 claims 799 LUCARINI Vincenzo 39 claims 598 JEANMART Brigitte 51 claims 699 GRACIA PASTOR Pedro 45 claims 800 EBERLE Thomas 39 claims 599 REBULL BAILACH Ricardo 51 claims 700 PIANO Leonardo 45 claims 801 ZADRAPA Lukas 39 claims 600 SOBCZAK Dominique 51 claims 701 RICHARD Bernard 45 claims 802 HOQUANTE Lionel 39 claims 601 FRAISSE Frederic 51 claims 702 VISSERS Dirk 45 claims 803 EDERN Andre 39 claims 602 JOOSTEN Stefan 51 claims 703 PERIN Michelangelo 45 claims 804 PERRIERE Marc 39 claims 603 VAN ZOELEN Jeroen 51 claims 704 SANCHEZ-B. Javier 45 claims 805 VAN VEELEN Mike 39 claims 604 WIEST Juergen 51 claims 705 SCHMITT Josef 45 claims 806 LEGAT Jean-Pierre 39 claims 605 DEMARS Philippe 51 claims 706 SEDINI Eugenio 45 claims 807 PREVAES Jeroen 39 claims 606 BOS Pepijn 51 claims 707 BOODE Jan-Willem 45 claims 808 D'AGOSTINO Sergio 39 claims 607 FEIST Dittmar 51 claims 708 JANSEN Cas 45 claims 809 GROENEWEGEN Michel 39 claims 608 BILBAO SALAZAR Asier 51 claims 709 ISNARD Emmanuel 45 claims 810 VAN DE PUT Jan 39 claims 609 JEANMART Corinne 51 claims 710 SEBILLE Dominique 45 claims 811 GARRIDO RIU Xavier 38 claims 610 WESSELIUS Roald 51 claims 711 BRANDTNER David 45 claims 812 OVERBEEK Erik 38 claims 611 DE HAAN Rene 50 claims 712 STAQUET Vincent 45 claims 813 VAN SCHIE Richard 38 claims 612 BRION Christophe 50 claims 713 ADVOCAAT Marc 44 claims 814 BLAZQUEZ TORRANO Jon 38 claims 613 JACOBS Floris 50 claims 714 BEURS Cor 44 claims 815 TITTOR Joerg 38 claims 614 EGMOND van Joost 50 claims 715 LA FERLA Emanuele 44 claims 816 DIEGUEZ RODRIGUEZ Josema 38 cl. 615 VAN KUIJK Corné 50 claims 716 SIMAL Jacques 44 claims 817 BIANCHI PINOTTI Pietro 38 claims 616 VISSER Bert 50 claims 717 GRENIER Alain 44 claims 818 ORTIZ DE ZARATE R. Dionisio 38 617 LEISTRA Hans 50 claims 718 SYCH Gerd 44 claims 819 GALLI Fiorangelo 38 claims 618 PEERDEMAN Marco 50 claims 719 BEEKERS Alwin 44 claims 820 POHL Dieter 38 claims 619 WEERTS John 50 claims 720 BOSMA Willem 44 claims 821 SLOS Steven 38 claims 620 EJ Ernst-jan 50 claims 721 LASA Inaki 44 claims 822 HUSKEN Pieter-Jan 38 claims 621 ROG Leo 50 claims 722 CAMNAGHI Alberto 44 claims 823 TEUCHER Dieter 38 claims 622 DE JAEGER Pol 50 claims 723 GEBHARD Fischer 44 claims 824 DUBUISSON Guy 38 claims 623 THEWESSEN Antoine 50 claims 724 VAN BEEK Martijn 44 claims 825 BEHE Jacky 38 claims 624 FIORI Matteo 50 claims 725 PLOEM Remco 44 claims 826 MAAS Frans-Jozef 38 claims 625 VAN DER WEEL Jaap Jan 50 claims 726 PAILHES Bernard 44 claims 827 VANDEPUT Maurice 38 claims 626 BOERJAN Peter 49 claims 727 SANZ ACEVEDO Jacinto 44 claims 828 DE MEIJ Tom 37 claims 627 LOPEZ-SANCHEZ Juan-Martin 49 cl. 728 HOPPE Ulla 43 claims 829 NANKE Clemens 37 claims 628 JANSSENS Michel 49 claims 729 ANDERSON Mike 43 claims 830 DUIZER Jack 37 claims 629 ADAMI Sasan 49 claims 730 WIJNANDS Alwin 43 claims 831 BELMONTE MORENO Ismael 37 cl. 630 KRAMER Peter 49 claims 731 PEPERKAMP Cor 43 claims 832 SOUVEREYNS David 37 claims 631 HUBERS Niels 49 claims 732 DERNIES Fernand 43 claims 833 MEEUWESSEN René 37 claims 632 DUBOIS Johan 49 claims 733 CAPELLE Yvan 43 claims 834 GARCIA BANAL Jordi 37 claims 633 EIZAGIRRE Iñigo 49 claims 734 MISSIPO David 43 claims 835 CLAERHOUT Ludwig 37 claims

10 BIG Review 2011

836 TRUYENS Aimé 37 claims 938 MONDELO Castro Jose 33 claims 1040 ARMENGOL Patrice 31 claims 837 LOMAN Ruben 37 claims 939 LAMAN Martijn 33 claims 1041 EIKENS Marc 31 claims 838 DANNEMARK Reinhold 37 claims 940 LE GUELTE Alain-Philippe 33 claims 1042 BOU TOMAS Josep 30 claims 839 ALBERTS Bas 37 claims 941 LAMONT Nicolas 33 claims 1043 ONRUBIA PEREZ Jesus 30 claims 840 MAKS Romeijn 37 claims 942 GELLAERTS Gunter 33 claims 1044 DE BRUIN Hans 30 claims 841 KRAMER Ruud 37 claims 943 BILLIAU Wouter 33 claims 1045 KOOPMANS Nick 30 claims 842 PAUWELS Davy 37 claims 944 DEMLENNE Marc 33 claims 1046 SPANJER Arnout 30 claims 843 WILHELM Gerhard 37 claims 945 VAN DER VELDEN Ries 33 claims 1047 WEETERINGS Willem 30 claims 844 OTUSZEWSKI Fabrice 36 claims 946 PASQUIER Philippe 33 claims 1048 BAENA MARFIL David 30 claims 845 LAMBIN Yannick 36 claims 947 RUTTEN Stan 33 claims 1049 FRANCESE Mauro 30 claims 846 BONPART Adriano 36 claims 948 KROPFF Peter 33 claims 1050 CANINS Maria 30 claims 847 FANTUZZI Franco 36 claims 949 LAMMERS Idde 33 claims 1051 RUGGERI Ruggero 30 claims 848 LESIACU Mihai 36 claims 950 SCHUBERT Zoltán 33 claims 1052 NICODIN Gheorghe 30 claims 849 MENKE Rein 36 claims 952 VAN MEGROOT Marc 33 claims 1053 ZWERUS Arie 30 claims 850 HUFFENUS Pierre 36 claims 953 JUHASZ Geza 33 claims 1054 DE RUITER Victor 30 claims 851 DEKKERS Erwin 36 claims 954 CAMPABADAL Ramon 33 claims 1055 TAMAYO Lucas 30 claims 852 KAESER Martin 36 claims 955 MOLOG Peter 33 claims 1056 MINEUR Tom 30 claims 853 HENDRIKSEN Jos 36 claims 956 BRUSATI Alessio 33 claims 1057 WAGNER Bob 30 claims 854 MOLS Bas 36 claims 957 FRUIT Andy 33 claims 1058 DE VRENG Arno 30 claims 855 VAN BEEK Ricsi 36 claims 958 WEIJMER Jos 33 claims 1059 VISSERS Ton 30 claims 856 DOCQUIER Jean-Marc 36 claims 959 BOS Jeroen 33 claims 1060 BENOIT Georges 30 claims 857 EVERHARD Carla 36 claims 960 DAUWE Jan 33 claims 1061 GIJSBERTS Ron 30 claims 858 ZWIENINK Sander 36 claims 961 FOSSA Michele 33 claims 1063 D'ARCHI Luca 30 claims 859 LANGHENDRIES Michel 36 claims 962 BARONE Fabio 33 claims 1064 PRANGER Steven 30 claims 860 CLAEYS Mario 36 claims 963 SEVERIN Ronald 33 claims 1065 ROUSSEL Jean 30 claims 861 WAMELINK Rik 36 claims 964 SVOBODA Jan 33 claims 1066 POSTEMA Henny 30 claims 862 KAHL Silvio 36 claims 965 CLOSSE Dirk 33 claims 1067 BAKKER Ruud 30 claims 863 ROMANISIO Giuseppe 36 claims 966 LORENZONI Osvaldo 33 claims 1068 KORTLEVER Cock 30 claims 864 PONTES Boris 36 claims 967 THONISSEN Maarten 33 claims 1069 BUEHRER Reinhard 30 claims 865 HAKL Jan 36 claims 968 MORETTO Gianni 33 claims 1070 PARRY Griffin 30 claims 866 SANTORO Ansalon 36 claims 969 LABBOZZETTA Salvatore 32 claims 1071 VAN KAMP Gerard 30 claims 867 ROMAND Louis 36 claims 970 SMIT Dick 32 claims 1072 DE JEU Peter 30 claims 868 BOTTO Jean-Luc 36 claims 971 RIETVELD Aart 32 claims 1073 SPEZIALI Mauro 30 claims 869 RONSYN Robin 36 claims 972 VANLUCHENE Xander 32 claims 1074 FEYS Steven 30 claims 870 MANIQUET Pierre-Yves 36 claims 973 32 claims 1075 VAN DANTZIG Jan Melle 30 claims 871 VAN DER VELDE Roel 36 claims 974 SURRIRAY Jean-Claude 32 claims 1076 REYNAERTS Stef 30 claims 872 SCHULTINGA Arjen 36 claims 975 COURTOIS Vincent 32 claims 1077 DE PORTO Anton 30 claims 873 VERHEGGEN Erik 36 claims 976 DUQUENOY Stéphane 32 claims 1078 DE COLA Aldo 30 claims 874 PALOMAR ASENJO Sergio 36 claims 977 SCHMITT Manfred 32 claims 1079 JOMAT Christian 30 claims 875 WOLSING Lex 36 claims 978 BURLANDO Mauro 32 claims 1080 VANCAEYSEELE Koen 30 claims 876 LEYERS Glen 36 claims 979 BERGAMO Rolando 32 claims 1081 PERUGINI Bruno 30 claims 877 ORSI Gianpiero 35 claims 980 GARCIA VARGA Luis Maria 32 claims 878 GIUSTI Marco 35 claims 981 GUNST Eric 32 claims 879 DIESEL Mark 35 claims 982 MAGRO Fiorenzo 32 claims 880 DE ROUW Ad 35 claims 983 DE SCHEPPER Tom 32 claims 881 COLL EROLES Roger 35 claims 984 RESNATI Roberto 32 claims 882 COMMISSO Francesco 35 claims 985 RINCON Jose 32 claims 883 MORENO GARCIA Adria 35 claims 986 SARGENTINI Martijn 32 claims 884 LUIJTEN Veenerick 35 claims 987 PILLIS Csilla 32 claims 885 LIARD Paul 35 claims 988 VANDERKELEN Filip 32 claims 886 CABOU BARADAT Patrick 35 claims 989 CEROVSKY Vladimir 32 claims 887 ZEGGERS Guy 35 claims 990 DUBOIS Joris 32 claims 888 NIEUW Roel 35 claims 991 COOLEN Jip 32 claims 889 WYNS Stefan 35 claims 992 JANSSEN Gerrie 32 claims 890 MARTY René 35 claims 993 RUETSCH Raphael 32 claims 891 MATTHIJSSEN Nico 35 claims 994 GEYSEN Erik 32 claims 892 JANSSEN Luuk 35 claims 995 VARIN Didier 32 claims 893 FOLDES Robert 35 claims 996 KUIJPER Hans 32 claims 894 SCHILLINGER Thomas 35 claims 997 BOOIJ Ilja 32 claims 895 NICOLASEN Wouter 35 claims 998 SPORRE Goran 31 claims 896 DISPA Jean-François 35 claims 999 DE BEKKER Maarten 31 claims 897 DUPONT Sebastien 35 claims 1000 LORENZINI Fabrizio 31 claims 898 WAHL Joachim 35 claims 1001 BOUDREZ Jan 31 claims 899 KATGERT Michiel 35 claims 1002 BRAAKMAN Ruud 31 claims 900 VAN MUNSTER Floris 35 claims 1003 BARCENA Mikel 31 claims 901 LOSFELD Pierre-Emmanuel 35 cl. 1004 WIJNEN Caspar 31 claims 902 NEWMAN Michael 35 claims 1005 BARDINI David 31 claims 903 MIELENZ Daniel 34 claims 1006 GENON Daniel 31 claims 904 TABUYO RUIZ Jesus 34 claims 1007 KISS Anette 31 claims 905 SWINNEN Mathieu 34 claims 1008 KORST Peter 31 claims 906 VAN DER AART Joris 34 claims 1009 USSEGLIO MIN Marco 31 claims 907 SNIEKERS Paul 34 claims 1010 GREGORI Benno 31 claims 908 FRANSSEN Erik 34 claims 1011 GANGOLF Jean 31 claims 909 VELTHUIS Raymon 34 claims 1012 DUNNEBACKE Jeroen 31 claims 910 VAN GOETHEM Rene 34 claims 1013 GONZO Antonio 31 claims 911 SPEKSNIJDER Rens 34 claims 1014 MOLENAAR Paul 31 claims 913 MARTIN Nicolas 34 claims 1015 METAILLER Marc 31 claims 914 ALBANESE Fabio 34 claims 1016 MARTIN Fred 31 claims 915 DE BECKER Wim 34 claims 1017 FRANZOSI Sergio 31 claims 916 COSTA Domenico 34 claims 1018 CAIRO SERRET Xavier 31 claims 917 RIETVELD Menno 34 claims 1019 KUPERUS Edward 31 claims 918 DOUMER Philippe 34 claims 1020 GEIB Katja 31 claims 919 RUSTEBIEL Tom 34 claims 1021 SAMMET Rainer 31 claims 920 LENDFERS Milou 34 claims 1022 WIJNANDS Paul 31 claims 921 FEHLING Wolfgang 34 claims 1023 PONS GALLEGO Antoni 31 claims 922 MOSCONI Marco 34 claims 1024 SUAREZ FERNANDEZ Jose Luis 31 cl 923 SZABO Sandor 34 claims 1025 PEREZ ANDRES Francisco 31 claims 924 CHARBONNIER Robert 34 claims 1026 DEHANDTSCHUTTER Dan 31 claims 925 MANDERS Hans 34 claims 1027 VELDT Léon 31 claims 926 POLI Alberto 34 claims 1028 LEFEBVRE Andre 31 claims 927 NAGY Andrea 34 claims 1029 GROOT Heleen 31 claims 928 SEEL Bernhard 34 claims 1030 BEAN Silvio 31 claims 929 DALLA DEA Valter 34 claims 1031 HARDY Henri 31 claims 930 VAN LEEUWEN Erik 34 claims 1032 BARABINO Paolo 31 claims 931 THOMAS Sam 34 claims 1033 SINDELAR Martin 31 claims 932 HUBERT Pierre 34 claims 1034 DARCHU Laurent 31 claims 933 UYLENBROECK Kris 33 claims 1035 SCHULLER Grégory 31 claims 934 CASTERAS Christian 33 claims 1036 CHAPELON Fabrice 31 claims 935 LIEDENBAUM Hugo 33 claims 1037 GRIFOLL DRAPER Marc 31 claims 936 ROUSSEAU Pierre 33 claims 1038 HORSTEN Paul 31 claims 937 LINEHAN David 33 claims 1039 RIKKERS Peter 31 claims

11 BIG Review 2011

CLASSEMENT CLAIMS 2010 1 BOSDIJK Rob 153 claims 51 MAYEUR Etienne 39 claims 2 TAYLOR Martin 150 claims 52 ANDELT Radek 38 claims 3 VAN ELS Wim 121 claims 53 SIRET Françoise 38 claims 4 BRIOLLET Daniel 101 claims 54 ANGERER Elisabeth 37 claims 5 LUCAS Eric 96 claims 55 TOLBOOM Michiel 36 claims 6 CATTANEO Luciano 88 claims 56 NILSON Jerry 36 claims 7 RECKHAUS Juergen 85 claims 57 BERNEGGER Klaus 36 claims 8 FROGNEUX Bernard 80 claims 58 BRUNETTI Gabriele 36 claims 9 VANDENBUSSCHE Tom 80 claims 59 GUIJARRO ORDONEZ Rafael 35 claims 10 SPINA Luigi 76 claims 60 VON HEYDEBRECK Anja 34 claims 11 TORELLI Cecilia 73 claims 61 KUBELE Petr 34 claims 12 HILSON Daniel 73 claims 62 VAN DEN BERGH Matthias 34 claims 13 CANDAU François 70 claims 63 KARLOVITZ Kristof 34 claims 14 OOSTRA Ard 69 claims 64 EPIARD Christian 34 claims 15 RAFOLS Frederic 66 claims 65 SIMONI Alberto 33 claims 16 ESCUER MESTRES Nuria 62 claims 66 MICHIELS Ludo 33 claims 17 LINNERT Heiko 60 claims 67 DEKKERS Helmuth 33 claims 18 MAGRI Domenico 56 claims 68 VAN HECKE Marnix 33 claims 19 BERASATEGI Ruben 55 claims 69 BOYENK Arnold 32 claims 20 NOTTEN Jean-Pierre 55 claims 70 VALLEJO PARTE Luis Fernando 32 claims 21 SALA Roger 55 claims 71 DAMEN Gerd 31 claims 22 VERLAET Johan 53 claims 72 HOCHULI Olivier 31 claims 23 GUILLEM Jaume 52 claims 73 CORNELLI Giuseppe 31 claims 24 HERMES Benno 51 claims 74 ROSSONI Ivano 30 claims 25 SOMMER-Brenner Claudia 51 claims 75 DUFFHUES Jan 29 claims 26 CASOLARI Bortolomeo 51 claims 76 JACQUEMIN Alain 29 claims 27 MATTE Jean-Luc 50 claims 77 STANEKE Rens 28 claims 28 BRENNER Karl 50 claims 78 BIANCHI Giovanni 28 claims 29 CIJSOUW Jakob 50 claims 79 UYLENBROECK Kris 28 claims 30 SPEED Kevin 49 claims 80 MORALES GARCIA Angel 28 claims 31 SZILAGYI Andras 48 claims 81 MENARD Michel 28 claims 32 PARTHOENS Jean 48 claims 82 DONDERS Patricia 27 claims 33 JACQUEMIN Gilles 46 claims 83 REPETTI Mauro 27 claims 34 BALAZS Abraham 45 claims 84 MONTEFUSCO Claudio 27 claims 35 BRUGMAN, Meindert 45 claims 85 GYÖRGYI Gabor 27 claims 36 TALLOEN Esteban 45 claims 86 CORSINI Claudio Fabrizio 27 claims 37 STANEKE Jan Batist 45 claims 87 LE CORRE Christian 27 claims 38 VANSTIPHOUT Dominique 44 claims 88 VINCZE Gabor 27 claims 39 JOYA, Xavier 44 claims 89 LOPEZ PRIETO Angel 26 claims 40 LLUSA MAS Jordi 44 claims 90 SPYSSCHAERT Anthony 26 claims 41 NOTTEN Peter 43 claims 91 DE DOBBELEER Jordy 26 claims 42 COSIALS Xavier 43 claims 92 SUPLICZ Ferenc 26 claims 43 OPOLECKY Hynek 43 claims 93 KOOL Martin 26 claims 44 CANDELI Luigi 42 claims 94 RONSYN Robin 26 claims 45 ANTXUSTEGI Aitor 41 claims 95 WYNS Stefan 26 claims 46 PUSKAS Aladár 40 claims 96 FUHRBACH Christoph 25 claims 47 KREICSI Gabor 40 claims 97 STOFFELS Joost 25 claims 48 AARD Miki 40 claims 98 VAN DEN HEUVEL Jorrit 25 claims 49 DESENDER Marc 39 claims 99 LINNERT Finn 25 claims 50 DAVID Lionel 39 claims 100 JANSEN Gerrit-Yme 25 claims

12 BIG Review 2011 PARALLEL CHALLENGES PARALLELES

1. INTRODUCTION The 12th october 2010, the Central Committee edited this news Le 12 octobre 2010, le Comité Directeur a édité cette information

MAIN OFFICIAL NEWS IMPORTANTE COMMUNICATION OFFICIELLE Hello, Bonjour,

Within the framework of the problems which worry us for a A travers les problèmes qui nous préoccupent au sujet de better adaptation of the superlist according to geopolitical and l'adaptation de notre superliste à l'évolution géopolitique et sporting european evolution, the Leading Committee of the sportive de l'Europe, le Comité Directeur a décidé à l'unanimité challenge BIG decides the management of the new procedures as de procéder aux actions et modifications suivantes : follows: ------A. The improvement of the balance between the 3 criteria (sport, A. L'amélioration de l'équilibre entre les 3 critères(sport, tourism and media) leads to 5 main principles for any coming tourisme et média) mène à 5 principes de base pour toute change inside the superlist. modification ultérieure dans une liste big. 1st principle : the bigs must be dispatched in the 1er principe : les bigs doivent couvrir l'ensemble more possible different mountainous regions des régions montagneuses 2nd principle : some bigs must help to discover the 2e principe : des bigs doivent aider à découvrir le natural and cultural tourism tourisme naturel et culturel 3rd principle : some bigs must be sporting climbs 3e principe : des bigs doivent être des ascensions à but the overview of the bigs must show an caractère sportif mais la vue générale de tous les average balance of difficulty bigs doit offrir un bon équilibre des difficultés 4th principle : some bigs must help to discover the 4e principe : des bigs doivent aider à découvrir les main climbs included in the cycling history ascensions principales issues de l'Histoire 5th principle : the bigs must be mainly surfaced cycliste roads, giving some place to gravelled roads only 5e principe : les bigs doivent être en priorité des when they give obviously an additional interest. routes revêtues, ne laissant la place à des secteurs muletiers que si ce secteur ajoute un ------intérêt certain. ------B. Creation of working groups in a 5 years plan B. Création de groupes de travail pour un plan de 5 ans 1) creation of a " group of analysts" who will carry out a deep 1) création d'un " groupe d' analystes" qui vont effectuer un analysis of Europe during 5 years on the basis of the 5 main travail d'étude approfondie sur l'Europe pendant 5 ans, en principles, while following a procedure which already proved respectant les 5 principes et en suivant une méthodologie qui a reliable and which will publish in 2015 the recasting of the déjà fait ses preuves, et qui publiera en 2015 la refonte de la superlist superliste officielle. 2) Creation of " national challenges", with a "stamp BIG", firstly 2) Création de " challenges nationaux", avec un "label BIG", tested in Belgium (or/and in the Netherlands) and in testés d'abord en Belgique (ou/et aux Pays-Bas) et en Hongrie Hungary(or/and in Romania) and wider if success is at (et/ou en Roumanie) et ailleurs si l'envie vous tient et si le succès rendezvous, so as to help the group of analysts in its work and to est au rendez-vous, afin d'aider le groupe d'analystes dans son open the door to new emergent cycling countries in the travail et d'ouvrir nos portes à de nouveaux pays cyclistes challenge. émergents dans ce challenge. 3) creation of a "filter group" who will filter the requests for 3) création d'un "groupe filtre" qui va filtrer les demandes single changes during those 5 years, will answer the applicants in singulières de changements durant ces 5 ans, va assurer la case of not-admissibility, will distinguish the practical cases recevabilité ou non d'une requête, différenciant les cas recevables without any need of votes and those to subject to the Judges vote qui ne demandent aucun vote et ceux à soumettre en dernier of the List. recours aux juges de la liste.

With all our regards and respect Avec nos amitiés et notre respect

THE LEADING COMMITTEE LE COMITE DIRECTEUR Daniel Gobert - Helmuth Dekkers - Christian Le Corre Daniel Gobert - Helmuth Dekkers - Christian Le Corre

In fact, we already had partners like "MDF=Mounts of France" and "UIC = Union International cycloclimbers", we'll have now additional national challenges to trade with, if they follow the big-method En fait, nous avions déjà un partenariat avec les "MDF = monts de France" et "UIC=Union Internationale de cyclogrimpeurs", nous aurons dès maintenant en plus des challenges nationaux s'ils suivent la méthode big. 13 BIG Review 2011 2. NATIONAL CHALLENGES UNDER WORKS / CHALLENGES NATIONAUX EN COURS

1) National Challenge, stamp BIG HUNGARY = NC BIG HUNGARY National-challenge-avagy-a-hazai-big-ezes

a) Expected opening/Ouverture espérée : 01.01.2015

b) Probable Committee / Comité probable : Gábor Kreicsi, ...(under works, pas encore fixé)) c) 50 national BIGs = under works hungarian BIG list

I.a) Pannonhalma (Sokoró), Hörmann-forrás (Kőszegi-hegység), Kandikó (Göcsej), Brennbergbánya (Soproni-hegység) 4/4 I.b) Kőris-hegy (Bakony), Kab-hegy (Bakony), Hárskút (Bakony), Gella-tető (Balaton-felvidék), Tihanyi apátság (Tihanyi-félsziget), Büdöskút (Keszthelyi-hegység), Csőszpuszta (Bakony) 7/7 I.c) Dobogó-kő (Visegrádi-hegység), Visegrádi vár (Visegrádi-hegység), Hármas-határ-hegy (Budai-hegység), János-hegy (Budai- hegység), Csókakői vár (Vértes), Bence-hegy (Velencei-hegység), Vaskapu-hegy (Pilis), Pilis-tető (Pilis), Pap-rét (Pilis), Gerecse (Gerecse), Turul (Gerecse), 11/11 II.a) Gánás-hegy (Nyírség) 1/1 II.b) Felső-Borovnyák (Bükk), Szár-hegy (Rudabányai-hegység), Kopasz-hegy (Zempléni-hegység), László-tanya (Zempléni- hegység), Bükkszentkereszt (Bükk), Magas-hegy (Cserehát), Derenk (Aggteleki-karszt), Síkfőkút (Bükk), Kőrös-bérc (Bükk), Vörös- tó (Aggteleki-karszt), Regéci vár (Zempléni-hegység) 11/11 II.c) Kékes-tető (Mátra), Galya-tető (Mátra), Hurok út (Mátra), Salgóbánya (Karancs-Medves), Wenckheim ház (Börzsöny), Nagyirtáspuszta (Börzsöny), Nagy-hideg-hegy (Börzsöny), Tajti-lapos (Karancs-Medves), Keszegi-hágó (Cserhát), Garáb(Cserhát), Sas-bérc (Cserhát), 11/11 III.a) Misina (Mecsek), Mauszi kápolna (Szekszárdi-dombság), Tenkes (Villányi-hegység), Petőczpuszta (Mecsek) 4/4 III.b) Sükösdi fal (Bácskai-síkság) 1/1

2) National Challenge, stamp BIG CZECH REPUBLIC = NC BIG CZECH REPUBLIC

a) Expected opening/Ouverture espérée : 01.07.2011

b) Probable Committee / Comité probable : Pavel Vanis + 6 persons c) 100 national BIGs = under works czech Republic BIG list

The czech group is working on a list of 100 climbs however he will discuss some questions like climbs in mountains with highest hills about 600 m above the sea level and some methodics. The meeting will happen sometimes in January or beginning February. Attention : 2x,3x,5x = amount of sides, nombre de versants Krušné hory(10) : Komáří hůrka, Klínovec, Horní Halže, Klášterec n. Ohří, Hora sv., Šebestiána/Menhartický vch?, Jeřábí vrch, Blatenský vrch, Bouřňák Slavkovský les (4): Lobzy - sedlo, Vysoké sedlo (2x), Krásno - hřeben Šibeníku (2x), Kladská - U jedlí Český les (7): Dyleň (2x), Havran ,Přimda, ulice Pod Hradem (2x), Velký zvon(2x), Škarmanka, Čerchov (5x), Koráb (3x) Šumava(10) : Poledník (3x), Pancíř (2x), Zhůří, Kleť, Hojná voda - sedlo Brdy(2) : Skalka - sedlo Pražská plošina(2) : Točná - Čihadlo, rekreační zař., Petřín - Strahovská ul. Poberouní(4) : Radeč (3x), Sedlo Dlouhého hřebene, Zelený kříž, Velká Amerika (2x), Lom Lužce České středohoří (7): Říp, Vrátenská hora, Buková hora (2x), Varhošť, Mužský Polabské pískovce(2) : Děčínský sněžník Lužické hory(2) : Jedlová Jizerské hory(5) : Smědava , Ještěd (2x), Kozákov (2x) Krkonoše(10) : Modré sedlo, Przelecz Okraj, Špindlerova Bouda, Vrbatova Bouda, Zvičina, Černá hora Broumovská vrchovina(2) : 2 climbs ? Orlické hory(7) : Velká Deštná (4x), Suchý vrch (2x), Šerlich - sedlo (2x), Šerlich - sedlo, Adam (3x) Brněnská vrchovina(4) : Útěchov, Rozhledna Podvrší u Veselice, Bunč (2x) Česká Sibiř(2) : 2 climbs ?? Českomoravská vrchovina(4) : Javořice, Devět, Skal, Stráně, Vestec Jeseníky(10) : Dlouhé Stráně (2x), Stránské, Červenohorské sedlo (2x), Praděd, Rejvíz (4x), Svatá trojice (2x), Slunečná Beskydy(10) : Lysá hora,Pustevny (2x), Hostýn, Velká Javořina,...

14 BIG Review 2011 3) National Challenge, stamp BIG ROMANIA = NC BIG ROMANIA

a) Expected opening/Ouverture espérée : 01.03.2011

b) Probable Committee / Comité probable : Gheorghe Nicodin, Claudiu Moga, Claudiu Glajariu,...(under works, pas encore fixé) c) 100 national BIGs = under works romanian BIG list

1) Huta 587 Oas / Ignis SM / MM asfalt DN 19 51) Hatod 710 Harghita / Baraolt CV asphalt 2) Izvoare 900 Ignis / Gutai MM asphalt 52) Aita Mare - Sf. Gheorghe* Baraolt CV neasf 3) Gutai 987 Gutai MM asfalt DN 18 53) Valcele Baraolt CV asphalt 4) Ciumarna 1100 Obcina Mare SV asfalt DN 17A 54) Balvanyos* Bodoc HR / CV asphalt 5) Varatec* Muntele Ses BH asfalt DN 1H 55) Casin 895 Ciuc / Bodoc HR asfalt DN 11B 6) Meses* Meses SJ asfalt DN 1F 56) Uz Ciuc HR neasf 7) Neteda 1040 Gutai / Lapus MM asphalt 57) Oituz 866 Nemira / Vrancei CV asfalt DN 11 8) Cavnic 1080 Lapus MM asphalt 58) Musat Vrancei CV neasf DN 2D 9) Setref 818 Tibles / Rodnei MM / BN asfalt DN 17C 59) Slanic - Poiana Sarata* Vrancei BC neasf 10) Sacel-Moisei* Rodnei MM asfalt DN 17 C 60) Covasna - Comandau* Intorsurii / Vrancei CV neasf 11) Rotunda 1271 Rodnei / Suhard MM / BN asphalt DN 17D 61) Lepsa - Soveja * Vrancei VN asphalt 12) Stramba - Ilva Mica Bargau BN neasf 62) Zabala - Secuiu* Vrancei VN / BZ neasf 13) Tihuta 1200 Calimani / Bargau BN asfalt DN 17 63) Teliu - Intorsura Buzaului* Intorsurii BV / CV asfalt DN 10 14) Colibita * Calimani BN asphalt 64) Ocna de Fier - Dognecea * Dognecei CS neasf 15) Pascanu Obcina Feredeului SV forest 65) Resita - Carasova * Aninei CS asfalt DN 58 16) Trei Movile* 1040 Obcina Feredeului SV asfalt DN 17 A 66) Steierdorf - Oravita* Aninei CS asfalt DN 57B 17) Rarau Rarau SV asphalt 67) Valiug - Garana* Semenic CS asphalt 18) Mestecanis 1096 Giumalau / Obcina Mestecanisului SV asfalt DN 17 68) Garana - Slatina-Timis* Semenic CS neasf 19) Slatioara* Rarau SV asphalt 69) Poarta Orientala 540 Semenic / Cernei CS asfalt DN 6 20) Tarnita 1161 Rarau / Stanisoarei SV asphalt 70) Poarta de Fier 699 Poiana Rusca / Tarcu CS / HD asfalt DN 68 21) Paltinis 1355 Bistritei SV neasf 71) Obarsia Closani* Mehedinti CS neasf 22) Petru Voda 900 Stanisoarei NT asfalt DN 15B 72) Tartarau 1665 Surean / Lotru VL / SB neasf 23) Mitoc 1130 Stanisoarei NT neasf 73) Groapa Seaca 1598 Surean / Parang VL / HD neasf 24) Varciorog-Dobresti* Padurea Craiului BH neasf 74) Banita-Merisor 759 Surean / Retezat VL / SB asfalt DN 66 25) Damis* Padurea Craiului BH neasf 75) Urdele 2141 Parang VL / GJ neasf 26) Stana de Vale Padurea Craiului /Vladeasa BH neasf 76) Curmatura Vidrutei Latoritei VL asphalt 27) Iad-Dragan* Vladeasa BH / CJ asphalt 77) Malaia-Bistrita* Capatanii VL forest 28) Fantanele* 1310* Gilau CJ asphalt 78) Balea 2040 Fagaras SB / AG asfalt DN 7C 29) Plopi 1090* Muntele Mare CJ neasf 79) Poiana - Salatrucu* Fagaras / Cozia VL / AG neasf 30) Vartop 1160 Bihor BH / AB asfalt DN 75 80) Mateias Iezer AG asfalt DN 73 31) Dealu Negru 1099 Gilau CJ asphalt 81) Magura Piatra Craiului BV neasf 32) Gurghiu* Gurghiu MS / HR neasf 82) Bran 1290 Piatra Craiului - Leaota AG / BV asfalt DN 73 33) Bucin 1287 Gurghiu HR asfalt DN 13 B 83) Cota 1000* 1000* Bucegi DB / PH asfalt DN 71 34) Sicas 1000 Gurghiu / Harghita HR asphalt 84) Poiana Brasov Postavaru BV asphalt 35) Vlahita 985 Harghita HR asfalt DN 13 A 85) Predeal Postavaru / Baiului BV asfalt DN 1 36) Borsec 1105 Harghita HR asfalt DN 15 86) Predelus 1295 Baiului / Grohotis BV / PH neasf 37) Borsec - Jolotca* Giurgeu HR neasf 87) Bratocea 1272 Grohotis / Ciucas BV / PH asfalt DN 1A 38) Tulghes 1025 Giurgeu HR asphalt 88) Schitul Feredeu 470 / Zarandului AR/ asphalt 39) Bicaz 1256 Giurgeu / Hasmas HR asfalt DN 12 C 89) Manastirea Calugara 500m CS /Aninei / asphalt 40) Gheorgheni - Balan* Giurgeu HR neasf 90) Prislop 1416 m MM asphalt 41) Trotus* 1159 Hasmas / Ciuc HR asfalt DN 12 A 91) Petrova 665 m MM asphalt 42) Valisoara 460 Metaliferi HD asfalt DN 76 92) Ghimes 1159 m HR asphalt 43) Buces 725 Bihor/ Metaliferi HD / AB asfalt DN 74 93) Ghimes Palanca 720m BC asphalt 44) Cosevita 321 Poiana Rusca / Lipovei TM / HD asfalt DN 68A 94) Homorod 775m HR asphalt 45) Zlatna - Almasu Mare* Metaliferi AB neasf 95) Izvorul Muntelui 891 m HR asphalt 46) Zlatna - Abrud * Metaliferi AB asfalt DN 74 96) Nierghes 878 m HR asphalt 47) Ghioncani - Mogos * Metaliferi AB neasf 97) Manastirea Frasinei 800 m VL asphalt 48) Ramet* Trascau AB neasf 98) 1st din Dobrogea care vrei 49) Jina - Sugag * Cindrel AB / SB neasf 99) 2nd din Dobrogea care vrei 50) Persani 619 Persani BV asfalt DN 1 100) 3rd din Dobrogea care vrei

3. FRIEND CHALLENGES

1) MONTS DE FRANCE = MDF Réglement / Spelregels / Rules Article 1 : dan 1000 meters boven de zeespiegel) Pour devenir membre, il faut avoir gravi en vélo au moins 12 To become a member, you need to have climbed 12 mounts in monts différents répartis sur 4 régions différentes parmi une liste this list and that in at least 4 different regions. (First diploma after de 100 monts, figurant ci-dessus. (3 monts de plus de 1000 12 mounts with 3 higher than 1000 meters above the sea level) mètres devront figurer au palmarès pour obtenir le premier brevet) Article 2 : Om lid te worden, moet je minstens 12 verschillende bergen in 4 Nombre de brevets : 8 / Aantal brevetten : 8 / Number of streken per fiets beklommen hebben uit de hierboven bestaande diplomas : 8 lijst van 100 bergen. ( Eerst brevet na 12 bergen waarvan 3 hoger - 12 monts : Brevet de membre 15 BIG Review 2011

- 24 monts : Brevets Geen bewijs nodig - 36 monts : Brevet Jean Robic No justification will be asked - 48 monts : Brevet - 60 monts : Brevet Article 4 : - 72 monts : Brevet Lucho Herrera L'inscription est gratuite. / Le membre peut pour 5€ par an - 84 monts : Médaille d'argent, silver, silber recevoir ses brevets à domicile - 100 monts : Médaille d'or , goud, gold De inschrijving is gratis / Voor 5 € per jaar worden de brevetten naar je adres verzonden. Article 3 : The subscription is free. / The member can eventually receive his Aucune justification ne sera demandée. diplomas at home against 5 € pro year.

Liste des Monts de France ALSACE 049 Mont Saint Clair 173m 339 H8 010 - 071 N°BIG319 001 Grand Wintersberg 580m 315 J3 054 - 015 050 Pic de Tantajo 518m 339 D7 088 - 051 N°BIG317 002 Grand Ballon 1342m 315 G9 052 - 069 N°BIG223 051 Guidon de Bouquet 629m 339 K4 062 - 027 N°BIG320 AQUITAINE 052 La Tour Madeloc 652m 344 J8 038 - 003 N°BIG365 003 Belvédère de Domme 213m 329 I7 024 - 020 053 Mont Saint Baudille 847m 339 F6 083 - 066 N°BIG318 004 Mont Urzumu 213m 342 D2 037 - 122 054 Tauch/Tour des Géographes 879m344 H5 006 - 066 005 Pic d’Arradoy 660m 342 E3 052 - 109 055 Col de l’Espinouse 1124m 339 C7 056 - 007 N°BIG316 006 Mont de la Madeleine 795m 342 G4 083 - 012 056 Roc de Peyre 1179m 331 B6 063 - 012 007 Artzamendi 926m 324 D3 050 - 037 N°BIG330 057 Pic de Nore 1210m 338 G10 060 - 049 315 AUVERGNE 058 Mont Aigoual 1567m 339 G4043 - 032 N°BIG313 008 Site des Hurlevents 433m 326 H6 066 - 049 059 Le Coma Morera 2205m 344 D8 014 - 106N°BIG360 009 Butte de Montpensier 436m 326 G6 027 - 096 LIMOUSIN 010 Puy St-Ambroise 442m 320 C11 015 - 061 060 Puy de Manzagol 698m 329 O3 066 - 063 011 Pic de la Garde 780m 326 H9 049 - 027 061Suc-au-May/Mt Monédières 908m 325 I8 004 - 021 012 Puy d’Isson 850m 326 F9 082 - 011 LoORRAINE 013 Mont Chanson 1058m 331 A4 068 - 069 062 Mont Saint jean 437m 314 D3 066 - 085 014 Le Reculon 1135m 326 J8 039 - 050 063 Le Haut du Tôt 800m315 E8 042 - 092 015 La Banne d’Ordanche 1330m 326 D9 050 - 040 064 Le Petit Drumont 1200 m 315 F9 040 - 072 N°BIG221 016 Mont Mouchet 1335m 331 C4 033 - 003 065 Le Hohneck 1362m 315 G8 007 - 096 017 Puy de Dôme 1415m 326 E8 066 - 045 N°BIG244 MIDI- BOURGOGNE 066 Cade 835m 338 K6 050 - 035 018 Mont Saint Romain 579m 328 B2 045 - 003 067 Montségur 1211m 344 B5 075-090 N°BIG356 019 Croix de la Libération 580m 320 F8 051 - 042 068 Mont Montalet 1259m 339 B6 042 - 113 020 Mont Afrique 595m 320 J6 036 - 030 069 Prat d’Albis -Touron 1490m 343 H7 032 - 070 N°BIG355 021 Mont Saint Vincent 608m 320 G10 063 - 025 NORD-PAS DE CALAIS 022 Signal d’Uchon 681m 320 F9 038 - 016 N°BIG229 070 Mont Noir 154m 302 E3030 - 040 N°BIG212 023 Montagne de Dun 721m 327 F2 007 - 057 071 Mont des Cats 158m 302 E3002 - 035 024 Mont Beuvray 821m 320 E8 017 - 052 N°BIG227 072 Mont Casse l175m 302 C3072 - 023 N°BIG211 BRETAGNE PROVENCE-CÔTE D'AZUR 025 Menez Bré 302m 309 C3 012 - 067 N°BIG206 073 Bas Caume 387m 340 E3 010 - 056 026 Menez - Hom 330m 308 F5 041 - 070 N°BIG202 074 Pic de l’Ours 500m 340 Q5 038 - 016 027 Roc Trevezel 365m 308 H4 037 - 058 N°BIG201 075 Mont Faron 562m 340 K7 058 - 009 N°BIG321 CHAMPAGNE-ARDENNES 076 La Grande Etoile 590m 340 H5 052 - 087 028 Fromelennes 218m 306 L2 002 - 033 077 Tête de Buisses 619m 340 F3 029 - 048 029 Mont Aimé 237m 306 F9 065 - 084 078 Notre Dame des Anges 780m 340 M6 068 - 081 030 Mont Joli 274m 306 G8 017 - 006 079 Haut Caume 801m 340 K6 028 - 139 031 Saint-Walfroy 350m 306 N5 044 - 058 N°BIG215 080 Mont Chauve 854m 341 E5 039 - 167 032 Roc de la Tour 407m 306 K3 048 - 066 081 La Madone d’Utelle 1176m341 E4 023 - 091 N°BIG327 033 Mont Malgré Tout 446m 306 K3 004 - 034 N°BIG213 082 Mont Doublier 1245m 340 Q3 078 - 073 N°BIG324 CORSE 083 Mont Vial 1549m 341 D4 105 - 100 N°BIG326 034 Serra di Pigno 961m 345 F3 039 - 101 N°BIG367 084 Mont Colombis 1733m 334 F6003 - 026N°BIG302 035 Haut - Asco 1422m 345 C5 048 - 071 N°BIG369 085 Mont Ventoux 1912m 332 E8 059 - 122 N°BIG301 FRANCHE-COMTE 086 Sommet Bûcher 2257m 334 I4 080 - 072 N°BIG295 036 Mont Roland 343m 321 C4 072 - 031 087 Cime de la Bonette 2802m 334 I7 075 - 008 N°BIG308 037 Mont Poupet 850m 321 F5 029 - 020 RHÔNES-ALPES 038 Crêt Monniot 1142m 321 I4 040 - 098 088 Mont Cindre 469m 327 H5 078 - 005 039 Ballon de Servance 1158m 315 E10 062 - 001 N°BIG224 089 Mont Brouilly 483m 327 G3 079 - 043 040 Le Grand Taureau 1323m 321 I5 051 - 062 N°BIG233 090 Signal de Cuiron / July 593m328 F3 003 - 093 N°BIG240 041 Mont Morond 1419m 321 I6 012 - 063 N°BIG234 091 Mont Thou 609m 327 H4 067 - 115 042 Mont d’Or 1463m 321 I6 013 - 074 N°BIG235 092 Les Cornes d’Urfé 936m 327 C4 012 - 100 LOIRE 093 Planachat 1234m 333 G2 066 - 035 N°BIG241 043 Puy Crapaud 270m 322 B4 016 - 042 094 Mont Salève 1307m 328 K4 012 - 017 N°BIG275 044 Mont des Avaloirs 417m 310 I4 008 - 030 095 Gerbier du Jonc 1417m 331 H4 028 - 119 N°BIG261 Picardie 096 Mont du chat 1504m 333 H4 081 - 002 N°BIG266 045 Mont Renault 149m 301 G7 005 - 005 097 Le Grand Colombier 1525m 333 H2 050 - 068 N°BIG264 046 Haute ville de Laon 181m 306 D5 050 - 063 098 Mont Revard 1537m 333 I3 072 - 109 N°BIG267 047 Mont Pagnotte 221m 305 G5 070 - 038 099 Crêt de Châtillon /Semnoz 1699m 333 J3 054 - 025 LANGUEDOC-ROUSSILLON N°BIG265 048 Mont Saint Loup 113m 339 F9 090 - 022 100 Signal de Bisanne 1939m 333 M3 005 - 064 N°BIG281 16 BIG Review 2011 Monts de France Classement 2010

Lauréats 49. Giraudin Philippe 28 102. Poivre Roland 14 Lavieville Bernard 100 50. Lavastre Willy 28 103. Tachon Christophe 14 Lucas Eric 100 51. Groux Jean-Pierre 28 104. Crinon François 13 Plaine Patrick 100 52. Vandenbussche Tom28 +4 106. Garin Gérard 13 Seguy Marc 100 53. Matte Jean-Luc 28 +12 106. Gilson Paul 13 Jacquemin Dominique 100 +1 54. Lamy Michel 27 +10 107. Outin Michel 13 55. Groux Michèle 27 108. Tiertant Jean 13 56. Cattin Jean-Paul 26 109. Van De Walle Danielle 13 Membres 57. Berard René 25 110. Bonhomme J-Cl 12 6. Brenner Karl 98 +1 58. Chaminadas Georges 25 111. Courcoux Serge 12 7. Jacquemin Alain 97 +1 59. Kauhanen Raimo 25 112. Dubessay Jeanine 12 8. Menard Michel 95 +16 60. Badonnel Christophe 25 + 6 113. George Nathalie 12 9. Bruffaerts José 88 + 5 61. Rivière Daniel 25 114. Hubert Emile-P 12 10. Jacquemin Renaud 87 + 3 62. Van De Walle Maurice25 115. Mansard Alain 12 11. Mayeur Etienne 83 63. Odorico Michel 25 +2 116. Mercier Jean 12 12. Jacquemin Julien 82 +1 64. Alberini Enrico 24 +7 117. Neugnot Serge 12 13. Vanstiphout Dom. 75 +14 65. Mareuil Bernard 22 +1 118. Trecat Jean-Marie 12 14. Pelissier Michel 73 66. Hoel Jean-Marie 21 119. Winling Jean-Paul 12 15. Adam Jean-Pierre 72 67. Verhaeghe Michel 21 120. Sobczak Dominique 12 16. Sommer Claudia 71 +1 68. Rocher Jean-Louis 20 121. Saint-Loubert-Bie 12 17. Guerry Patrick 63 69. Sauvage Daniele 20 122. Jeanmart Corine 12 18. Candau François 63 +15 70. Patereau Pascal 20 +2 123. Jeanmart Brigitte 12 19. Briollet Daniel 62 +23 71. Lavievile Jean-Pierre 20 +2 20. Piret Véronique 59 72. Larcier Bernard 20 +15 En attente 21. Hilson Daniel 58 +31 73. Guijarro Rafael 20 +13 22. Benistrand Claude 57 74. Maillet André 19 124. Jacquemin Elise 14 +14 23. Chevaleyre André 56 75. Merville Jacques 19 125. Lavieville Jackie 9 +1 24. Dewez Rudy 52 +14 76. Vanwaterschot Constant 19 126. Genessay Michel 8 25. Gobert Daniel 51 +2 77. Letterman Jacques 19 +1 127. Roussel Jean 8 26. Fearn Hervé 50 78. Gallet Charles 18 127. Bruguier Frédéric 8 27. Almanzor Michel 49 79. Gillodes Alain 18 128. Combelle Christophe 7 +1 28. Le Corre Christian 48 +14 80. Toustou Jacques 18 129. Mohimont André 5 29. Jacquemin Gilles 47 +2 81. Vanoverkebe Joël 18 131. Marchesini Philippe 4 30. Chieusse Maurice 45 82. Kalb Kevin 18 +18 132. Lavieville Aurore 3 31. Dejace Jules 44 +5 83. Baudon Regis 17 133. Forcadel Cédric 2 32. Geenens Germain 40 84. Joimat Christian 17 134.Teyssandier Christian 1 33. Vierfond Mickael 38 +4 85. Pech Jean-Jacques 17 135. Phillipot Igor 1 34. Bosc Henri 37 86. Meritet Laurent 17 136. Vandendaele Benoit 1 35. Garcia Martial 36 +12 87. Si M’Hammed Elias 17 +14 137. Leloire Quentin 1 36. Verd Michel 35 88. Baudon Philippe 16 138. Losfeld Pierre-Em. 1 37. Liaudon Marc 34 +2 89. Honoré Patrick 16 139. Schmitt Jean-Pierre 1 38. Brouard Claire 33 90. Nelphe Jean-Luc 16 140. Faber Etienne 1 39. Chatel Pierre 32 91. Carreras Jean-Pierre16 141. Vancoppenolle Edm. 1 40. Benistrand Catherine32 92. David Lionel 16 142. Deffontaines Noël 1 41. Dogliani Franck 31 93. Baudon Hervé 15 143. Caron Colette 1 42. Gales Rooger 31 94. Briot Joëlle 15 144. Bruffaerts Frédéric 1 +1 43. Bioud Marcel 30 95. Dubessay Jean-Guy 15 145. Larcier Nathan 1 +1 44. Lequien Abel 30 96. Faillet Dominique 15 146. Orage Gaëlle 1 +1 45. Leroy Fons 30 97. Lutgen Jean-Marc 15 46. Videau Christian 30 +14 98. Tierens Willy 15 Pour toutes informations voir 47. Légal Patrice 30 +2 99. Lavieville Mireille 15 +1 Montsdefrance .be 48. Laurent Jean 29 100. Goy Gérard 14 101. Minard Philippe 14

17 BIG Review 2011

2) UNIONE INTERNAZIONALE CICLOSCALATORI = UIC

Les Prestiges de l'UIC Vengono istituiti i Prestigi di: Scoiattolo, Camoscio, Stambecco e

Super Stambecco Le Comité Directeur de l'UIC, ayant pris en consideration la secondo le seguenticonsiderazioni e regole generali: proposition de Georges Rossini, à decidé d'instituer les diplômes Per ottenere uno dei titoli del Prestigio, si deve rigorosamente de rispettare le seguenti norme : Ecureuil, Chamois, Bouquetin e Super Bouquetin REGOLAMENTO Pour obtenir un de ces titres du Prestige, on doit rigoureusement 1 - Il riconoscimento sarà rilasciato a chi ne farà specifica respecter les suivantes normes : richiesta. Un modello di lista sur Excel, a riempire, è disponibile REGLEMENT sul nostro sito . 1 - Le titre sera décerné à ceux qui en feront demande précise . 2 - Tutti i valichi e salite prestigiose devono essere fatti Un modèle de liste sur Excel à remplir est disponible sur notre esclusivamente in ascensione, su strade carrozzabili, strade site. bianche comprese. Sono esclusi le mulattiere e sentieri pedestri. 2 - Tous les cols et montées prestigieuses doivent être effectués 3 - Valichi e salite sono da computare una sola volta. Solo a exclusivement en ascension sur des routes carrossables, routes partire dai 1000 metri di altitudine si potranno computare, una blanches comprises. Les chemins muletiers et sentiers pédestres sola volta, i vari versanti di ogni salita. Per essere coerenti e sont à exclure. logici, si tratta di salite diverse, diverse per lunghezza, pendenza 3 - Cols et montées sont à comptabiliser une seule fois. e difficoltà, è come scalare salite differenti. Seulement à partir des altitudes de 1000 mètres qu'on pourra 4 - I valichi effettuati "transitando", come per esempio il Passo comptabiliser une seule fois, les différents versants de chaque Falzarego, se si prosegue l'ascensione verso lo scollinamento montée. Pour être cohérents et logiques il s'agit d'ascensions effettivo della salita sul Passo Valparola, non sono da computare. différentes, en longueur, pourcentage et difficulté; cela revient à I valichi fatti in discesa, senza dare un colpo di pedale, grimper différentes montées. ovviamente sono da escludere. 4 - les cols effectués "en passant" comme par exemple le Col du 5 - Per le successive richieste di prestigi di classe superiore, si Lautaret si on prolonge l'ascension vers le franchissement effectif possono con il Prestigio conferito, riempire le nuove liste de la montée sur le Col du Galibier, ne sont pas à comptabiliser. aggiungendo i nuovi valichi e salite mancanti. Les cols fait dans la descente, sans donner un coup de pédale, Ogni attestato sarà personalizzato con l'enumerazione dei valichi évidemment ne sont pas à comptabiliser. e salite i più elevati, i più prestigiosi, raggiunti da ogni 5 - Par la suite, pour les requêtes des Prestiges de classe cicloscalatore laureato. supérieure, on pourra remplir la nouvelle liste, avec celle du

Prestige conféré, en ajoutant ajouter les nouvelles montées. Scoiattolo 180 valichi e prestigiose salite a partire dai 500 metri Chaque diplôme sera personnalisé avec l'énumération des cols et di altitudine, dei quali grimpées les plus élevés, les plus prestigieux, fait par chaque 60 a partire dai 1000 metri, lauréat. 30 a partire dai 1500 metri Ecureuil 3 a partire dai 2000 metri. 180 cols et montées prestigieuses à partir des 500 mètres Camoscio 210 valichi e prestigiose salite a partire dai 500 metri d'altitude, dont di altitudine, dei quali 60 à partir des 1000 mètres 90 a partire dai 1000 metri, 30 à partir des 1500 mètres 45 a partire dai 1500 metri, 3 à partir des 2000 mètres 15 a partire dai 2000 metri Chamois 3 a partire dai 2500 metri 210 cols et montées prestigieuses à partir des 500 mètres d'altitude, dont Stambecco 240 valichi e prestigiose salite a partire dai 500 metri 90 à partir des 1000 mètres di altitudine, dei quali 45 à partir des 1500 mètres 120 a partire dai 1000 metri, 15 à partir des 2000 mètres 60 a partire dai 1500 metri, 3 à partir des 2500 mètres 30 a partire dai 2000 metri Bouquetin 6 a partire dai 2500 metri 240 cols et montées prestigieuses à partir des 500 mètres d'altitude, dont Super Stambecco--- 300 valichi e prestigiose salite a partire dai 120 à partir des 1000 mètres 500 metri di altitudine, dei quali 60 à partir des 1500 mètres 150 a partire dai 1000 metri, 30 à partir des 2000 mètres 75 a partire dai 1500 metri, 6 à partir des 2500 mètres 45 a partire dai 2000 metri Super Bouquetin 9 a partire dai 2500 metri 300 cols et montées prestigieuses à partir des 500 mètres d'altitude, dont Super Stambecco integrale come Super Stambecco a coloro che 150 à partir des 1000 mètres rimetteranno la loro lista con salite e valichi da un solo versante 75à partir des 1500 mètres A voi dunque perseguire un sogno alla portata di tutti ed ottenere 45 à partir des 2000 mètres quella "cosa",che non andrà in seguito riposta in un cassetto, ma 9 à partir des 2500 mètres inquadrata in una bella cornice, appesa in uno dei vostri luoghi ------privilegiati, che vi farà sempre ricordare i momenti i più intensi, Super Bouquetin integrale - idem Super Bouquetin pour ceux qui dopo una lunga e faticosa ascensione, in contemplazione davanti remettront leur liste avec col et montées par un seul versant a quei spettacoli di grandiosi e maestosi orizzonti che solo lassù, I Prestigi nelle cime, possono offrirci

18 BIG Review 2011

Bilan financier 2010

Tous les montants sont exprimés en euros.

1) Situation au 31/12/2009

Solde du compte Fortis 2772,76 Solde du compte PayPal 94,80 Solde du compte corse 45,02 Solde du compte “vêtements” 0,00 Dette 1527,00 Stocks :  vêtements (valeur : 800,00)  auto-collants  4 ramettes de papier  couvertures plastifiées  enveloppes renforcées

Au 31/12/2009, il y avait 2665 membres dont 231 cotisants 2009.

2) Dépenses

Revues 404,33 Diplômes 62,90 Vêtements 2230,48 Sacs à dos 595,13 Frais postaux pour :  revues 612,61  diplômes 45,50  vêtements 123,69  sacs à dos 24,80 Total frais postaux 806,60 Rendez-vous en Angleterre 3013,23 Remboursement de prêts 1527,00 Frais bancaires :  Fortis 109,17  PayPal 59,78 Total frais bancaires 168,95

Total dépenses 8808,62

3) Recettes

Cotisations 2950,77 Vêtements 1444,50 Sacs à dos 140,60 Rendez-vous en Angleterre 4087,80 Divers (médaille 500 BIG, livrets 25 ans) 206,00

Total recettes 8829,67

4) Situation au 31/12/2010

Solde du compte Fortis 2641,40 Solde du compte PayPal 219,22 Solde du compte corse 0,00 Solde du compte “vêtements” 73,01

19 BIG Review 2011

Dette 0,00 Stocks :  vêtements (valeur : 2025,50)  sacs à dos  auto-collants  ramettes de papier  couvertures plastifiées  enveloppes renforcées

Au 31/12/2010, il y avait 3398 membres dont 264 cotisants 2010.

Nota : Une partie des paiements concernant le rendez-vous en Angleterre a été effectuée en 2009.

Balance sheet 2010

All the amounts are expressed in euros.

1) Financial situation on the 31/12/2009

Balance of the Fortis account 2772,76 Balance of the PayPal account 94,80 Balance of the corsican account 45,02 Balance of the “clothes” account 0,00 Debt 1527,00 Stocks :  clothes (value : 800,00)  stickers  4 paper sheets blocks  laminated covers  strengthened envelopes

On the date of 31/12/2009, there were 2665 members, 231 of them were 2009 contributors.

2) Outcomings

Reviews 404,33 Diplomas 62,90 Clothes 2230,48 Rucksacks 595,13 Postage for :  reviews 612,61  diplomas 45,50  clothes 123,69  rucksacks 24,80 Total postage 806,60 Meeting in England 3013,23 Loans repayment 1527,00 Bank charges for :  Fortis 109,17  PayPal 59,78 Total bank charges 168,95

Total outcomings 8808,62

20 BIG Review 2011

3) Incomings

Contributions 2950,77 Clothes 1444,50 Rucksacks 140,60 Meeting in England 4087,80 Miscellaneous (medal 500 BIG, booklets 25 years) 206,00

Total incomings 8829,67

4) Financial situation on the 31/12/2010

Balance of the Fortis account 2641,40 Balance of the PayPal account 219,22 Balance of the corsican account 0,00 Balance of the “clothes” account 73,01 Debt 0,00 Stocks :  clothes (value : 2025,50)  rucksacks  stickers  paper sheets blocks  laminated covers  strengthened envelopes

On the date of 31/12/2010, there were 3398 members, 264 of them were 2010 contributors.

Note : the payments concerning the meeting in England have partly been done in 2009.

21 BIG Review 2011

IRON BIG 25 des maillots du BIG, Marie et Xavier ont réussi à 61 PARRAINS EN FOLIE devenir en plein été le second couple d'ironbigs. 61 CRAZY GODFATHERS

The adventure began like a randomize attempt, just like a "why not" and it became a must little by little. Our ironbig25, requesting 25 claims of the same big inside a precise delay, had a great success in the year 2010. Here are some of the crazy godfathers of the year. L'aventure a commencé comme une tentative hasardeuse, juste comme un "pourquoi pas" et c'est devenu au fil de l'année un incontournable. Notre ironbig25 demandant 25 réussites du même big dans un délai bien défini, a récolté un grand succès en 2010. Voici quelques-uns des parrains fous de cette année. 1b) EN DUOS / TWO...GETHER

We are the 8th of may in the year 2010. Our secretary Helmuth Dekkers and Stan Nijsten fighted 25 times the slopes of the Oude Huls in the Netherlands (Limburg). Together at the start, together at the arrival.

1. CEUX QUI FONT CA A DEUX / THOSE WHO ARE TW0 TO DO IT

1a) PARRAINS & MARRAINES MAIN DANS LA MAIN / GODFATHER & GODMOTHER HAND IN THE HAND Dans les Ardennes, deux autres duos composés Tout a commencé alors que la neige recouvrait d'une part de Jean-Marie Pique et Axel Jansen vont encore les Ardennes belges. Sur un mois, le couple réussir Wanne alors que Philippe Demars et Tony des Dominique(s) (Jacquemin-Vanstiphout) a Fox vont réussir le col de Rideux (cf. commentaires vaincu 25 fois le col du Rosier, en bravant week- ci après) end après week-end toutes les conditions At the end of the season, Aladár Puskás & Gabór atmosphériques et les frimas de l'hiver. Ils furent les Vincze will reach 25 times together the deux premiers lauréats. Pannonhalma Castle in Hungary. Le second couple a bravé le Pas de Morgins tout au long du mois d'août. Les Dredemy, nos managers 2. CEUX QUI LAISSENT DES COMMENTAIRES DERRIERE EUX 2a) ARNAUD DECOSTRE IRONBIG25 DU MONT SAINT AUBERT

Un défi « B. I. G. » qui fait prendre de la hauteur le Lundi 22 Mars 2010 Pour fêter, en 2010, le 25e Anniversaire du Brevet International des Grimpeurs (BIG) un défi un peu fou consiste à gravir 25 fois dans le jour, le mois ou

22 BIG Review 2011 l’année, l’un des 1000 sommets européens 09) Un contemplatif, détenteur d’un diplôme convoités. d’ingénieur agronome tropical, décroché à l’Université Libre de Bruxelles (ULB), tenté par l’audace des aventuriers. Ainsi vient-il d’abandonner, à 40 ans, sa fonction de professeur de mathématiques pour devenir régisseur de cinéma : « Un métier de fou ! ». 10) Là encore d’expliquer cela et le vélo d’Arnaud, un Viper qui contraste avec son habituelle randonneuse de grands voyages, atteint une nouvelle fois le sommet tournaisien. 11) Un vélo d’Arnaud qui, tel le rocher de Sisyphe, oblige à remettre l’ouvrage sur le métier. 12) Le temps, dans la descente, de se souvenir que la passion des B.I.G. lui a donné l’occasion de découvrir la Pologne, la Tchéquie ou la Roumanie : « Des pays qui m’ont transcendé ! » 13) La 20e vers 16h. Plus que cinq ! 01) Nous avons été témoin des 25 ascensions du Après quoi l’Iron-Big-25 sera prêt pour de Mont Saint Aubert réalisées par Arnaud Decostre, nouvelles « grimpettes » dans d’autres pays de Bassilly (B), ce lundi 22 mars, dans le cadre du européens : défi « Iron-BIG-25 ». « Le B.I.G. m’incite à voyager avec un jeu de Soit, pour lui, exactement 100 km et 3000m repérage qui me convient plus que le Guide du d’élévation. Routard ! » 02) Arnaud est un mordu de voyages et, selon ses Col de la Croix Jubaru dires, « Collectionneur pathologique ». On verra, à 14) Un voyage au Mont Saint-Aubert impose de la fin, à quel point. saluer la mémoire d’Amand Jubaru, le patron- Mais, ce jour, il est l’un des 2857 membres (comme martyr des cyclotouristes en Tournaisis. Jeannie Longo, Kurt Van de Wouwer, Peter Sa chute mortelle, à 26 ans, c’était là, le 14 juillet Farazin, Michaël Bogeerd, … et autres VIP) du 1897. Brevet International des Grimpeurs avec 163 15) Le premier col belge, inventé en 1985 et sommets à son actif. indiqué sur la Michelin, est un hommage à ceux qui 03) Le Mont Saint-Aubert (145m d’altitude avec souffrent à vélo. 120m d’élévation sur son versant sud, via la Croix Malheureusement parfois au risque de l’accident. Jubaru) a le bonheur de figurer, comme le Mont 16) Le col de la Croix Jubaru (99m) est le premier Cassel, le Mur de Grammont et le Mur de Huy, de la série des cols belges reconnus par le club des entre autres régionaux, dans la liste des 1000 Cent Cols. sommets « de légende » répartis dans toute De production artisanale … et avec beaucoup l’Europe. d’imagination. 04) Le temps d’expliquer cela … et Arnaud est déjà 17) Le pédaleur qui raisonne (trop si, en bon au sommet. Voltairien du Siècle des Lumières, il pourfend la Pour la 5e fois, en fait, vers 11h. réaction et le conservatisme !) finit sa 20e escalade 05) « l’Iron-BIG-25 incite à devenir le parrain d’un à une allure ... quelque peu défoutue. sommet BIG européen en le gravissant 25 fois en 18) Mais, avec l’énergie du vaillant Iron-BIG-25 en 2010, à l’occasion du 25e anniversaire du Brevet passe de devenir parrain du Mont de la Trinité International des Grimpeurs. (autre appellation du Mont des Tournaisiens), il La règle est de 25 réussites en un jour pour une reprend des forces pour terminer en vainqueur. dénivellation inférieure à 200m, en un mois pour 19) Au point de faire un détour par le chemin pavé moins de 500 et dans l’année si au-delà … » des Poètes marqué, depuis le 21 mars 2010, d’une 06) C’est un défi, ou un gag ( !), qui comporte de nouvelle citation de Bernadette Bodson-Mary: « bons moments : Ton ombre ne sera jamais mienne. » Arnaud s’est aussi fait le plaisir de 25 descentes. 20) Puis le « BIGeur », pour ne pas dire le « 07) Mythe.Tel Sisyphe, roi légendaire, condamné Biggest », exulte : aux Enfers à faire rouler sur la pente d’une « Le site www.challenge-big.eu mis à jour par montagne un rocher qui retombait toujours avant Daniel Gobert, président–fondateur du B.IG., va d’avoir atteint le sommet … pouvoir annoncer ma réussite ! » Donc, 25 fois mettre le petit plateau à la place du Arnaud est 4e Iron-BIG-25 après Dominique grand. Vanstiphout et Dominique Jacquemin qui ont réussi 08) Avec l’impression de pédaler comme en leurs 25 ascensions en un mois du col du Rosier voyages lointains dont est friand notre pédaleur.

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(dans les Ardennes) et Rudy Dewez 25 fois en un chicane et en 30x32 pour la fin. Je me mettais en jour le Mur de Grammont. danseuse seulement 4 fois sur une dizaine de André Tignon mètres, et notamment pour franchir la chicane. J'ai mis environ 17 minutes au tour. 2b) DIS-MOI 25 FOIS HUY,PRESI-DAN Mes dossards "25x" m'ont permis d'avoir des encouragements de nombreux automobilistes me dépassant, du bonhomme de la maison de la chicane qui est venu souvent prendre de mes nouvelles et me photographier ainsi que d'un voisin un peu plus haut et des enfants au sommet. J'ai eu aussi les encouragements d'un groupe de vététistes à l'ascension n°11 et d'un groupe de hollandais à l'ascension n°25.

Mais par-dessus tout, j'aimerais remercier ma chère et tendre ainsi que Helmuth, qui par des messages sur mon GSM, n'ont pas arrêté de m'encourager. Et cerise sur le gâteau, un énoooorme merci à Philippe Demars présent du 13e au 15e pour prendre des photos que je vais mettre en lien et Axel Jansen, J'étais à pied d'oeuvre, malgré la météo, au sommet présent du 23e au 25e, qui m'a accompagné pour du mur de Huy à 7h du matin. Premier départ à ces deux derniers tours et avec qui j'ai sabré le 7h20 avec deux pochettes plastifiées placées dans le "mousseux", généreusement offert par lui, à même dos comme un dossard pour expliquer ma tentative le sol sur le parking. du jour et des post-its de 1 à 25 que j'ai scotchés sur la gaine de mon frein avant à chaque tour pour me L'amitié du BIG m'a fait chaud au coeur. Sans vous, rappeler où j'en étais quand je ne savais plus où dans la solitude de la grisaille hutoise, je n'y serais j'étais peut-être pas arrivé. Encore et encore merci.

Les 10 premières ascensions furent sous la pluie Tout se passe dans la tête sur la fin, mais si on n'a fine mais régulière alors que les 15 dernières pas les jambes dès le début, rien ne sert d'insister. donnèrent lieu à une alternance entre passages Quand on a passé le 17e, on ne peut plus s'arrêter pluvieux et temps ensoleillé. mais même à 4 km/h, le cœur a mal, les muscles des cuisses sont comme de la pierre et on ne rêve Je suis mort. Genre de truc à faire une fois dans sa que de dormir...dormir...dormir vie (c'est toujours ce qu'on dit avant de se réveiller avec des projets dans le tête le lendemain (re- ). Le Daniel Gobert moral n'a pas été bon pendant les 10 premiers. Ce fut très bien du 11 au 16. A partir de la fin du 17, on appelle ça un calvaire. Il semble que le n°17 (cf. Rideux) ressemble au 35e kilomètre d'un marathon

La monotonie de la répétition offre une connaissance fantastique du terrain. Carrefour dangereux avec la route de la Sarte dans la descente. Feu rouge énervant une fois sur deux dans cette même descente. Rond-point tout en bas agréable jusqu'à 9h du mat. Après, on boufferait le trafic. Premiers 300m très utiles pour la mise en jambes et agréables tout au long des 25 tours. Première partie jusqu'à la ligne droite précédant la chicane finalement roulante sur un petit plateau. Après, c'est l'usure. la chicane bien sûr mais surtout les 100m qui suivent le replat après la chicane et par dessus tout les 200 derniers mètres absolument exténuants.

J'ai grimpé en 30x24 jusqu'au mur, en 30x28 le mur les 15 premières fois, puis en 30x28 jusqu'à la

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2c) Les 26 Côtes de Wanne de Picou et Axelinou chaque tour. Au 20ème tour, ils s’excuseront de ne 23 May 2010 pouvoir rester plus longtemps… Adorables ! Il est vrai qu’on avait notre maillot ‘Côte de Wanne Dans la vie, il y a les gens qui savent compter et les – 25 time in one day – 23 May 2010’. Cela intrigua gens qui sont prudents (et même des qui disent pas mal de cyclistes, même si bien peu nous toujours ‘plus que six’).Pour Axel, lever à 03:16 et poseront des questions en anglais, mais plutôt dans rendez-vous chez Jean-Marie à 04:10. la langue de Vondel. A la question du ‘Pourquoi ?’, Arrivée à 05:50, il fait froid… Nous nous garons à ne voulant pas nous lancer dans des grandes et 100 mètres du sommet (ce qui a rallongé notre longues explications, et désirant économiser notre parcours de plusieurs centaines de mètres !). Nous souffle, nous répondions tout simplement ‘Because décidons de garer la voiture à l’ombre, mais où est we are stupid’. En fin de compte c’est / c’était et ce le soleil ? Après avoir fait le point sur le levant sera toujours exactement la réalité. équinoxal, nous arrivons à la conclusion que sur Un hollandais tout en rose (Giro d’Italia oblige) base d’un temps de selle estimé à 10h25 hors pause, nous a dépassé lors de la 15ème ascension (+/-) et le soleil tournera sur son axe, et que seul un baobab nous avons papoté. Arrivé en haut, comme pleureur pourrait nous aider. d’habitude, nous avons fait demi-tour dès la ligne Départ effectif à 06:10. franchie. Il nous a demandé ‘Al terug ? / déjà de Première descente, première froidure, puis première retour’, nous avons répondu ‘Ja zeker / montée (logique tout ça). Le début est sous le soleil, Evidemment !’ mais la deuxième partie encore à l’ombre, il faudra Une journée sans galère, quoi ! Car nous étions attendre la troisième montée pour se réchauffer à partis pour réussir. Ce genre de pari stupide (dans cet endroit. notre cas, Axel avait proposé ce challenge à Jean- Nous repérons très vite à l’entrée de Spineux un Marie début janvier à l’occasion de l’anniversaire petit veau qui deviendra notre mascotte. Presque à d’un ami commun : ‘Tu te rappelles qu’on avait fait chaque tour nous lui dirons bonjour. Le fermier le les Cinglés du Mont Ventoux en 2007 ? Et bien je mettra à l’abri aux heures chaudes de la journée, le te propose quelque chose d’encore plus stupide. chanceux ! Accompagné de son épouse il n’a pas osé dire non Au sommet du ‘raidillon’ de Spineux sur le côté nous voilà donc en ce 23 mai 2010 famélique), droit un individu a installé un canon de la 2ème ce genre de pari stupide se gagne donc uniquement guerre mondiale dans son jardin. Son voisin a fait la dans la tête ! même chose. La maison suivante a installé une table des négociations dans son jardin. Que voilà un Question forme, cela a été. Quelques difficultés village où tout le monde s’entend bien ! On espère entre 15 et 18 pour Jean-Marie, et entre 21 et 24 juste qu’ils ne nous feront pas citoyens d’honneur pour avoir traversé 50 fois leur village dans la journée… Il y a aussi le panier de basket devant la maison en face du veau. Il y a la grand’ mère qu’on sort parfois dans sa chaise roulante à l’entrée du village. Après le 6ème passage une première pause. C’est à ce moment-là qu’on voit un cycliste avec une plaque de cadre. C’est le début d’un très très long défilé. Nous avions choisi le dimanche 23 mai car c’était au milieu d’un long week-end qui nous permettait de nous détendre avant et nous reposer après. D’autres ont eu la même idée : les organisateurs de la randonnée ‘Tilff - Bastogne - Tilff’, soit plus de 5.000 cyclistes. Question intimité, c’était plutôt raté… Au 8ème passage on voit un couple installé avec tables et chaises de camping (+ frigo box) à l’angle la route vers Tigeonville (à l’entrée du sous-bois à 800 mètres du sommet). On dit bonjour. Au 9ème passage, on dit bonjour. Au 10ème aussi. Au 11ème, la dame nous dit ‘C’est la 4ème fois’, on lui répond ‘Non, la 11ème !’ Finalement c’est eux qui tiendront le décompte et nous en informeront à

25 BIG Review 2011 pour Axel. Pour la 25ème nous avions décidé de traversée du village. A la sortie de celui-ci la finir par le côté classique, dite route de Lavaux ou déclivité passe directement à 13%. Vient ensuite de Tigeonville (côté Sud pour les initiés). une partie à pente raisonnable suivie d’une courte Question mental, la semaine précédente nous descente suivie à nouveau d’une montée à 6 – 7%. avions fait la petite flèche de Wallonie (166 km et Enfin, lorsque l’on aperçoit l’antenne sommitale la 3.200 mètres comprenant 4 BIGs et le Tiers de déclivité repasse brusquement à 10%. Bref, un Coo). A ce moment-là, nous savions déjà que nous profil très variable et surtout très casse pattes. allions réussir, la défaite n’était pas envisageable, ni Nous avons programmé notre journée comme suit : envisagée (chaque fois qu’on descendait, on était 10 escalades depuis Fanzel, puis pause de midi. bien obligé de remonter à la voiture… ce fut surtout Ensuite 2 paquets de 5, toujours depuis Fanzel pour le cas pour la 26ème…). finir par un dernier quintet constitué d’un panaché des 4 flancs possibles. Jean-Marie a gagné le sprint de la 26ème ascension Quelques problèmes de la journée : d’abord, la ; mais ce qu’il ne sait pas c’est que c’est Axel qui découverte de la difficulté de la côte. Ensuite, Tony avait franchi la ligne le premier lors de la 25ème… a un problème avec sa cassette. Il doit changer de (vrai ou pas vrai ? Cela n’a pas d’importance car roue. Enfin, c’est moi qui à la 7ème et à la 10ème nous avons vaincu ensemble !). escalade perd la manivelle de gauche de mon Séries:6+5+5+4+4+2 pédalier, suite à une rupture mécanique. Une Temps de selle par série de 5 = 2h01 + 2h02 + 2h13 réparation de fortune permettra toutefois de + 2h10 + 2h19 = 10h45 poursuivre. Pourquoi 26 fois la Côte de Wanne ? Les 5 premières ascensions se déroulent sans trop de problèmes, si ce n’est que l’apparition du soleil Parce que tant qu’à être stupide, autant l’être avec nous impose une pause imprévue afin de revêtir un panache (soit une démonstration par l’absurde) ! équipement plus estival. Tout doucement, les gens Le dénivelé pour les 25 Côtes s’élevait à 4.875 du coin nous prennent pour des fous. Il y a même mètres. Nous avons donc ajouté une petite 26ème un maçon qui nous a proposé de téléphoner à (et aussi pour dire au revoir au petit veau) pour Lierneux (une localité proche où se situe une arriver à 5.000 mètres de dénivelé sur la journée. institution psychiatrique). Il est 19h35 lorsque nous jetons nos bécanes dans Au terme de chaque ascension, afin de ne pas en les fourrés et dans l’immédiat, ce qui nous frappe le oublier une, nous traçons un trait à la craie sur un plus, c’est qu’on a mal au cul ! poteau de signalisation. Promis juré : cette année-ci on ne gravira plus la La pause de midi est la bienvenue. Côte de Wanne… Malheureusement, elle a cassé notre rythme. Petit a petit, en plus de la fatigue, la lassitude s’installe. Axel Jansen et Jean-Marie Pique Nous commençons à connaître par cœur la position du moindre caillou sur la route. Après 15 escalades, 2d) ECHEC ET MATE L'ECHIQUIER DU je sais que je n’irai pas au bout. Mes deux RIDEUX compagnons ne sont pas beaucoup mieux que moi. Après la 17ème , c’est l’abandon. Tony aurait L'ECHEC encore pu en faire une ou deux : Jacques aurait pu Ce mercredi 20 avril, avec mes potes du club CTG aller jusque 20, mais pas au-delà. Bref, c’est Fexhe, Tony Fox et Jacques Laermans, nous avons l’ECHEC. pris la direction du col du Rideux à Fanzel (Big n° Celui-ci a au moins un point positif, c’est de mettre 129) afin de tenter de le grimper 25 fois. Nous en évidence la qualité de la performance de ceux aurions du en principe être accompagnés de Willy Van Dorst du CTG Fexhe également, malheureusement ce dernier s’est trouvé bloqué dans un aéroport quelque part en Afrique en raison des caprices du volcan Eyjafjöll. Nous garons nos voitures près de l’ancienne école, à proximité d’un banc public. Ce dernier pourra nous être utile lors des pauses !! J’avais préparé cette journée en escaladant plusieurs fois la côte du Sart d’Avette aux Awirs, à proximité de chez moi. De mémoire, il me semblait que cette dernière ressemblait beaucoup au col du Rideux. Conclusion du test, … çà devrait aller. Malheureusement, ma mémoire n’est plus ce qu’elle a été, …le Rideux c’est autre chose. On commence à froid par du 10% dans toute la

26 BIG Review 2011 qui ont réussi ou qui réussiront. mètres (2.6 km au lieu de 2.2) et son dénivelé est Après analyse des causes de notre échec et y avoir plus important de 9 mètres (160 m au lieu de 151), remédié, tels Mac Arthur aux Philippines, nous mais sa pente est plus régulière et comme écrit plus reviendrons haut, le revêtement de la chaussée vient d’être partiellement refait et est un vrai billard. RE-ECHEC Après mon échec du 20 avril, j’ai pris le temps Ce flanc du col du Rideux commence par un d’accumuler kilomètres et dénivelé. kilomètre dans les bois. La route est bordée du côté Ce 1er septembre, j’ai décidé de remettre le gauche par des chênes centenaires derrière lesquels couvert, … seul cette fois car de l’analyse de ma on devine un précipice. Suit alors un replat première tentative j’ai retiré la conclusion qu’il était bienvenu sur 200 mètres. Le kilomètre final possible que mon échec puisse être attribué au fait ressemble assez à celui du flanc Fanzel, à savoir que mes deux compagnons, Tony et Jacques, qu’il comporte une portion à 10 % que mon ami étaient plus costauds que moi. Tony n’a que fort peu appréciée. Je démarre de Fanzel à 9h. Comme nous avons garé notre véhicule à Fanzel, il Je constate avec plaisir que le revêtement de la nous a fallu commencer la journée par une escalade chaussée a été refait dans la chicane de la traversée du flanc Fanzel. Ensuite, suivirent quatorze du bois situé au pied du dernier mur. La résistance escalades du flanc Ninane, puis une courte pause au roulement est y est devenue beaucoup meilleure (1/4 heure) au terme de laquelle nous avons amené (en côte il n’y a pas de petits profits) et dans le sens notre voiture au sommet du col afin d’avoir notre de la descente, le danger de rouler dans un nid de ravitaillement à portée de main. poule est éliminé. Première pause après 11 escalades (au lieu de 10 La reprise n’est pas moins pénible que lors des lors de la première tentative). Cette pause, je la fais tentatives précédentes. volontairement longue (+/- 1 heure), espérant ainsi Nous ne ferons plus de pause, si ce n’est d’une pouvoir évacuer une partie de la fatigue qui minute ou deux. Celles de Tony sont un peu plus commence à se faire sentir. Ce sera mon erreur du longues car depuis l’escalade n°10 il arrive au jour. La reprise sera catastrophique. Je ne sommet de plus en plus tôt que moi. Son retrouverai jamais mes jambes et au terme de la entraînement régulier sur des distances supérieures 18ème ascension, je jette à nouveau le gant. à 120 kilomètres paie. Contrairement à lui, je Pour la dernière escalade du jour, j’ai choisi de faire dépasse rarement les 100 kilomètres . le flanc côté Ninane. En avril, la partie basse de la Les cinq dernières escalades ont été un calvaire. route (de Lignely à Ninane) était impraticable pour J’avais mal au dos, dans les bras, aux pieds sous les un vélo de route. Entretemps, le revêtement venait cales de pédales, mais surtout au cou où j’avais d’être refait. Un vrai billard ; c’est à retenir pour la l’impression qu’on y avait déposé des baises. suite. Heureusement les jambes continuaient à répondre. Bilan de la tentative : Le moral n’y est plus non plus. J’en ai marre de - 6h50 de route. voir à chaque tour cette salamandre écrasée, cette - 85 km. branche au milieu de la route, ces noquettes (c’est - 2800 m de dénivelé. du belge) boue dans un virage, ces gravier dans Analyse de la tentative : l’épingle à cheveu. Même les vaches, qui au début - Seul ou à plusieurs, c’est kif-kif (18 escalades au nous regardaient, ne nous accordent plus la moindre lieu de 17). attention. Ma seule supportrice a été une - Il faut raccourcir le nombre et le temps des musaraigne qui traversait la route à presque tous pauses. mes passages. - Un élément m’inquiète, à savoir la réduction des Vingt cinq fois l’escalade d’une même côte, çà réflexes suite à la fatigue. C’est particulièrement laisse le temps à la méditation et à la réflexion. Je inquiétant lors de la traversée du bois situé au pied comprend maintenant Daniel lorsque dans le du col et où on déplore de nombreux nids de poule. rapport de son escalade (25x) du Mur de Huy, il - En conclusion, je me suis demandé (mais pas écrit que c’est une chose qu’il faut faire (seule) une longtemps) si j’arriverai à amener mes 62 ans et 90 fois dans sa vie. C’est une souffrance que kilos au terme des 25 escalades. j’hésiterais à souhaiter à mon pire ennemi.

ET MATE Bilan de la tentative : Un adage populaire dit qu’il faut battre le fer tant 25 escalade (1 depuis Fanzel et 24 depuis Ninane) qu’il est chaud, je retourne donc au col du Rideux Temps au tour : de 20 à 23 minutes (4 minutes pour ce jeudi 9 septembre. Je suis accompagné de mon la descente, le reste pour la montée) ami Tony Fox. 131 km Nous avons décidé de faire notre nouvelle tentative 8h50 sur le flanc côté Ninane. Il est plus long de 400

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4160 m de dénivelé (soit environ trois fois le Tijdens de 7de beklimming fiets ik me bijna vast in Tourmalet) de oranje skinetten van de rally. De ploeg 15 km/h de moyenne vrijwilligers is met vrachtwagen aan het opruimen 52 km/h de vitesse maximale van de berg begonnen. Na 10 beklimmingen wacht het eerste interview van de dag. PLI van het Pour ceux qui aiment les chiffres, si j’ajoute à ceux Nieuwsblad stelt mij de nodige vragen en doet mij qui précèdent ceux de ma tentative de la semaine voor de foto een halve Kemmelberg opfietsen. précédente on obtient : Daarna begin aan mijn tweede reeks van 10. De 43 escalades 12de is er chaos op de berg wanneer een grote 216 km groep wandelaars naar den Engel wandelt terwijl 6960 m de dénivelé een tweetal wagens naar beneden rijden. Daartussen bevinden zich ook nog een paar mountainbikers. Ik Si on fait de même avec ceux de la tentative d’avril moet zowaar roepen om de weg vrij te maken. “En on arrive à : op het grote verzet,” hoor ik één van de wandelaars 60 escalades nog zeggen. Tussen de mountainbikers herken ik 253 km vlug een collega van de school, samen met Koen 9604 m de dénivelé Devoogdt zal ik de 13de, 14de en 15de maal de Kemmelberg beklimmen. Ik neem dan een pauze Je ne veux plus entendre parler du col du Rideux … aan de Hollemeersch en maak me op voor de pour le moment et pour me changer les idées, je volgende 5 met in het achterhoofd het broodje beleg vais me rendre une semaine dans les Pyrénées et en cola die ik na mijn 20ste beklimming verdiend enfin débloquer mon compteur Big qui n’a pas zal hebben bij bakker Pauwelyn in Kemmel. Daar encore bougé cette année." praat ik ook nog met een Kortrijkse wielertoerist Philippe Demars die de Johan Museeuw Classic in de benen heeft en hier een rondje van de bergen komt doen om met MARC LE VELO 25 KEER OP DE KASSEIEN goede benen naar de te trekken. Mij Dag van de Kemmelberg : 27/06/2010 rest nog een rondje van vijf beklimmingen. De laatste klim rijdt de oudste zoon Jens mee naar de De fietsvereniging Challenge Big bestaat in 2010 top. De afdaling naar het wijngoed de Monteberg is 25 jaar. De leden van de vereniging hebben allen aansluitend zalig. De wijn heerlijk om drinken ! In maar één doel: zoveel mogelijk bergen uit de lijst de vooravond nog zie ik Stijn Devolder Belgisch van 1000 hellingen en cols opfietsen. BIG staat dan kampioen worden en ’s anderendaags haal ik de ook voor Brevet International du Grimpeur en werd ochtend bij Radio 2 en kan de zomervakantie in 1985 opgericht door Daniel Gobert, auteur van beginnen de Cotacol, de encyclopedie van de 1000 Belgische Marc Desender hellingen. Om de 25ste verjaardag van Challenge Big te vieren werd Iron Big opgestart : één van de hellingen uit de lijst moest afhankelijk van lengte en hoogteverschil 25 keer per dag, per maand of per jaar bekommen worden. Zondag 27 juni 2010, de rallypiloten hebben de Kemmelberg verlaten en alleen maar een pak kiezelsteentjes achter gelaten. Ik start om 10u aan mijn dagje Kemmelberg. Vanuit Nieuwkerke vertrek ik met de jongste zoon Jelle naar het wijngoed de Monteberg waar de officiële start is. We zijn iets te vroeg en doen als opwarming de Monteberg. We rijden in het wiel van de wielertoeristen van Houthulst naar de top. Beneden aan het wijngoed wachten reeds de Molteni’s en Bert Moeyaert van De Profs. We vertrekken samen voor de eerste beklimming. Pas ben ik de Alverman voorbij of ik verlies de zonnebril. Er is gelukkig één Molteni die stopt. De zonnebril verdwijnt voor de rest van de dag in de achterzak. Tijdens de eerste 5 beklimmingen fietsen Bert en ik mee met de stroom wandelaars die hier een wandeltocht vanuit Boezinge komen stappen. “Ene keer die Kemmel is meer dan voldoende.” Ik heb er dan nog 20 te doen.

28 BIG Review 2011

Operation 2525

Anja von Heydebreck

A group of BIG members set out to celebrate the 25th anniversary of the Challenge BIG in a special way: the idea of the Operation 2525 was to climb 25 BIGs in the in a travel of 10 days, covering all the way through Switzerland, Liechtenstein, Austria, Italy and Slovenia by bike. The route and accommodation were well organzied in advance by Marc Desender. This trip was only possible through the generous support of Ninette and Gino Capoen, driving all the participants' luggage from with its relentless slopes the highest surfaced road in one place to the other and - the legendary Monte Slovenia, with spectacular arranging pique-niques for Zoncolan (BIG 720), awaited views of the Julian Alps lunch every day, which by everybody with awe - Passo del Cason di Lanza in everybody enjoyed after some - Tre Cime di Lavaredo (BIG Friuli (BIG 722), which after a hours of cycling. Thank you, 719, the highest climb of the landslide having blocked the Ninette and Gino, also for your tour) with its marvelous views. road could only be reached moral support! after a long off-road detour But also some less famous with walking passages. The route was carefully chosen climbs turned out to be very in a way that allowed special: Obviously everybody had some everybody to adjust the - The road up the Aversertal to times of suffering or having to program to their abilities and Juf (BIG 598, Switzerland), fight. But the mood in the liking, with an average of more known as the highest village in group was such that even after than 3000 meters of altitude Europe that is inhabited all the seven consecutive days of per day for the strong riders. year round. cycling, nobody used the Some of the most spectacular - Pillerhöhe (BIG 609), which opportunity to take a rest day in climbs in the Alps were links the Pitztal and Inntal Cortina d'Ampezzo (where we covered: valleys through seemingly stayed for two nights) - all - Kitzbüheler Horn (BIG 620) untouched nature went to climb some of the - Mangrtsko Sedlo (BIG 880), many BIGs that could be reached from there (Valparola, Giau, Fedaia, Duran, Forcella Cibiana). Although nobody in the group climbed all 25 BIGs, and even some BIGs on the agenda were not reached at all, in the end the promise of the Operation 2525 was met with three additional BIGs (BIG 592: Lenzerheidepass, BIG 718: Forcella Cibiana, BIG 876: Vršic) being climbed by at least some participants. All in all this was a unique experience in a group that was united - despite all differences - by the passion for cycloclimbing.

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OPERATION 2525 11. Gert – the Competitor – he also do something else: up to Once upon a time we were nine always win his category during you! or eleven cyclosportives – his category is for the ones who still have a Stage 1 from Cabbiolo (CH) to Nine cyclists from Europe or eight-speed gear Tiefencastel (CH) through nine from Belgium? Passo del San Bernardino and Nine from Belgium? 3 The idea of the Operation 2525 Juf. Flemish, 1 Brusselaar, 3 was to climb 25 BIGs in the Immediately climbing 30 km – Walloons and 2 German- Alps in a travel of 10 days, 2 hours for the first ones and 3 speaking. covering all the way through hours for the last one – we ate Actually these nine also Switzerland, Liechtenstein, on the foot of Juf – When the include one Frenchman, one Austria, Italy and Slovenia by last ones arrived at the lunch Dutchman, two Germans, and bike. The route and place the first ones left for Juf even one working for the accommodation were well and the others went British Consulate! organized in advance by our immediately to Tiefencastel. dear manager. This trip was Michel and Olivier already 1. Ninette – our ‘Mother’ only possible through the visited a bikeshop in Thusis. because she always took care generous support of Dirk tried to convince the of us, always answered to our Ninette and Gino, driving all others that Juf was just a ‘coup- desiderata (bananas or the participants' luggage from de-cul’, actually it was a long tomatoes for lunch e.g.) and one place to the other and long ‘coup de cul’. In the was able to drive the minibus arranging pique-niques for evening, victory of the when ‘Daddy’ was tired lunch every day, which Netherlands at the world cup. 2. Gino – the pillar from everybody enjoyed after some Poperinge (the most famous hours of cycling. Thank you, Stage 2 from Tiefencastel (CH) guy of his village in 2010!) Ninette and Gino, also for your to Malbun (LI) through also called the driver, the moral support! Julierpass, Albulapss, mechanic or the ‘terrorist’ (by Lenzerheidepass and Malbun in the German police) On 1st July we started at 7AM Liechtenstein 3. Michel – the strongest from Ieper (BE). After some For the first and last time we ‘Papy’ of the world – always stops to get the other cyclists did not have lunch together. claiming but also able to calm all over Belgium, we arrived in Strong ones went through down the only Pamela from Switzerland, after having Julierpass and Albulapass. Liechtenstein, and stopping ‘écrasé les pieds du douanier’, Then back to Tiefencastel for each time he sees a fountain at Cabbiolo. Dirk and Anja the same tour than the others 4. Bernard – Mister NT (for arrived by train directly from but due to the heat they stopped New Technology: bicycle- Darmstadt. Dirk called at 6PM in Chur and took the bus to the computer, GPS, cardio, laptop, to know where we were. We place. camera, iPhone…) – he took 10 arrived 1 minute later at the When preparing the route Marc different jerseys, together with hotel it was the first and the last did not realise that 10 ‘cuissards assortis’ time that Gino was late. We Lenzerheidepass was a BIG – 5. Marc – the ‘Manager’ or the forgave him. he was feeling it was too easy metronome – who actually is and not worthwhile to be a not yet 50 and who came ‘just The hotel was a little bit BIG, actually he was wrong! for training’ before le Tour du ‘hippie’ and we ate outside. We The climb of Malbun was Mont-Blanc asked if the water from the really difficult in the heat of the 6. Michel and 7.- Olivier – the fountain was drinkable. The afternoon. Axel stopped at the ‘beaufs’ – actually their wives landlady told us that in hotel to watch the victory of are sisters – always looking for Switzerland, unlike other Deutschland against Argentina bikeshops countries, water from a (4-0) then cycled the last 3 km 8. Axel – the (not very much) fountain is always drinkable! in the fresh evening. Flying Dutchman The berggasthouse is one km 9. Dirk – the tall salty cyclist – The idea of this tour is that (at 10%) from the main road tall because 2 meters tall and everybody is cycling at his/her right after the tunnel. Really salty (see stage 9) own rhythm and we try to start nice and calm (except for Gert 10. Anja – the most beautiful together and to have a lunch who slept in the bathroom to cyclist ever seen (dixit the together. You can choose escape Bernard snoring). others) between long and short trip and

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Michel fellt in love with the Only heavy clouds this you just turn back 17 km and landlady Pamela… morning. Marc and Bernard 700 meters and here it is… decided to climb the awful We got two nice surprises at Stage 3 from Malbun (LI) to Halltal – with a passage at 25% the hotel: we finally received Ried-Oberinntal (AT) through The others took a cycling path our jerseys (see picture) and Malbun and Bielerhöhe along the river – including a Netherlands beat Uruguay in The ones who skipped Malbun tree fallen on the path and a the semi-final! the day before climbed it in the downhill through the ‘bush’ to fresh morning (too easy said reach the main road. Stage 7 from Matreier the others who climbed in the Tauernhaus (AT) to Pocol (IT) middle of the afternoon!). Heavy rain when arriving in through Hochstein and Tre Axel won the stage of ‘Tour Zell-am-Ziller – nice bike shop Cime di Lavaeredo d’Autriche’ in Bludenz just in (for Axel this time). We made The usual strong/crazy cyclists front of his team-mate Gert. some mistakes in calculating went up Hochstein – 12km at Actually 6 cyclist from the the distance and the foreseen 10% – but then stupidly took same team were at the fisrt first Speicher-Zillergründl has been the main road to Italy. In the 6 places: amazing! skipped. Light rain to go up to meantime the clever group took Long road to the top of Gerlospass and the ski resort on a nice cycling path along the Bielerhöhe (probably the the top – 150th BIG for Axel – river going up to the Italian longest BIG during the but then really heavy going border. journey). Lunch at the top. down. The hotel was not in the Lunch together in the shadow Downhill altogether (because city of but 8 km and was very well organised by of the wind on the top we were 400 meters higher from there. Ninette and Gino. In Italy we even obliged to press pedals). Really nice panorama on the went up to Tre Cime di Night in a ‘flies’ hotel in Ried- clouds. Lavaredo, the highest BIG of Oberinntal. Actually there were our journey. more flies in the hotel than Stage 6 from Mittersill (AT) to Nice picture of the group with cyclists in Alpe d’Huez during Matreier Tauernhaus (AT) their new jerseys. the Tour de France! through Kitzbüheler Horn and Down to Pocol through Passo Neues Luckner Haus Tre Croci (why not another Stage 4 from Ried-Oberinntal Only 4 ‘strong’ cyclists went to pass?). For the first time we (AT) to Hall im Tirol (AT) Kitzbüheler. Please comment. will spend two nights at the through Möseralm and The others preferred to go same place. Pillerhöhe directly to the 300 meters to warm up before Felbertauerntunnel. Directly? Stage 8 from Pocol to Pocol the first BIG – a little bit short Why directly when you are through Passo di Valparola, for Michel. First you go up to only at 2 km of the Pass Thurn. Passo di Fedaia, Passo Duran, Fiss than you need to ask how No – first you need to climb it! Passo Giau and even Forcella to go to Möseralm – a small Michel and Olivier were quite Cibiana road on the left side of the ski- surprised by this German The heavy day of the journey. lift – the last 200 meters are proposal. But 5 different tours. Valparola really awful. Not everybody Felbertauerntunnel is forbidden + Duran for Axel. Valparola + found his way – that’s life. for cyclists and you need to call Fedaia + Giau for Olivier. First flat tire for Dirk due to the the shuttle at the entrance of Cibiana + Duran for Anja and heat of his wheel. the tunnel – they pick up you Dirk (+ Giau),. Valparola, On the way up to Pillerhöhe and your bicycles and drop you Duran + Giau for Gert Gert took a wrong way and at the other side of the (+Staulanza!!). Etc. asked two cows how to reach mountain: very easy – but not By chance 6 cyclists had lunch the BIG. He was the first one at foreseen by our ‘gentil together – once again this is the the foot and the last one on the organisateur’. Ninette ‘touch’. Forcella top but nobody passed him! The way up to Neues Luckner Cibiana was not planned but Downhill in the rain. Rain Haus is not too difficult – Anja and Dirk already climbed stopped for lunch. Long way to except one kilometer after the most of the others Dolomite Hall through Innsbruck. No village of Kals but was really BIGs. problem thanks to Bernard and windy. Once again a ‘route à Good night in this old- his GPS. péage’. fashioned hotel, even for Gert Our nice manager found a nice who slept in the living room’s Stage 5 from Hall im Tirol hotel a little bit outside the sofas. (AT) to Mittersill (AT) through original foreseen place to rest – Halltal and Gerlospass

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Stage 9 from Pocol (IT) to Why salty Dirk? Because he is Party is over – see you for the Paularo (IT) through Monte always looking for salt and he operation 5050. Zoncolan and Monte Paularo even stopped in a tiny village Long way to the foot of Monte and asked in a bar for salt Stage 10bis for Anja and Dirk Zoncolan (109 km). This time probably not something the from Tarvisio (IT) to Villach the group gave his chance to locals see every day. (AT) through Vrsic and Axel and his map to replace Mangart in Slovenia Bernard and his GPS. Results? Stage 10 from Paularo (IT) to Please do not look at the map, Some more kilometers, visit of Tarvisio (IT) through Passo del this is not exactly a short-cut ;-) hidden villages, passage Cazon di Lanza and Mangart TThe train was in the evening. through closed roads… (Slo) He had had not climbed Lunch at Forni Avoltri. The The last day, again an heavy Mangart the day before, and it tension is present. 5 will try one. Our dear manager tried to was important to add a 25th Monte Zoncolan. Gino is not persuade us that the first pass is different BIGs for this allowed to accompany them – just a formality: 15 km and 900 Operation: Vrsic – the too steep. Some others felt they meters. Actually there were unforeseen one. exaggerated one day before two downhills in the middle of during the heavy day of the the pass and some passages at For statistics lovers: journey. 15%. Number of BIGs climbed = 4 stopped at Orvaro, the foot of But what was difficultly 150 the Monster – why not 5 foreseeable was the closure of Number of different BIGs because Michel did not want to the road because of stones climbed = 25 share his stress – nice from fallen on the road. We thought Total meters climbed (during him. ‘stones are not a problem for BIGs) = 160.000 (average From Liaris to the first tunnel: Biggers’. Well stones mean 1.067) 6km at 14.8%. Michel highest rocks of several tons… Back to Total Europoints for these 150 speed (in a curve): 6.3 km/h. Paularo we took the BIGs = 145.500 (average 970) Axel’s technique: slalom. Once ‘deviation’. Steep road until it Bernard was walking and Axel became gravelled, and even not The podium of the most BIGs cycling: same speed. Plenty of gravelled anymore… We climbed is composed by the pictures on the top. And walked some kilometers. When three oldest cyclists a good blueberries for Michel. we finally reached a road it was sign for the others, they can On the foot, Bernard proposed still not possible to cycle only improve! to go to the right and Axel to because the steepness was too the left! The left was the nicest dangerous in the downhill! At Despite the defeat of option but not the easiest one. the end we reached the road to Netherlands on the last day, we Up in Ligosullo we met Anja the pass and climbed it: 25km would like to remind you that and Dirk down from Monte and 5 hours… and all together! Paularo . They did not go all Not possible to call Gino to “Happiness is only real when the way up, because the change the place of the lunch shared” gravelled part of the road was because no mobile connection too bad for the bikes. After 2 on the top… kilometers we saw Olivier and At the end we twice changed Michel stopped with a flat tire. places for lunch but had it all And we finished the trip as we together on the way to started it: altogether ;-) Tarvisio. We had to skip two Luckily Ninette and Gino BIGs (Sella Carnizza and reached the guest house in the Mataïur) because of lack of middle of the afternoon and time. Some stopped at Tarvisio persuaded them to open it and but most decided to continue prepare something to eat – we until Slovenia, our Graal. made a reservation but they Heavy clouds, thunderbolts in were not convinced to work the neighbourhood. Some (Aie Italians!). Rabbit for stopped at the border (at least dinner and long explanations of they cycled in Slovenia!) some Bernard on why if we imitate a little bit further. Three went the favourite hobby of the to the top. The last one arrived rabbits it has a negative impact at the hotel at 7:30PM – just in on your cycling performa nce time for the world cup final. the next day.

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The 25th birthday of my Baby BIG same time to tell their similar honour of the challenge so Daniel GOBERT passion of cycloclimbing. It's a high. It's a good vision of what satisfaction for the our next managed travel in Of course, it's not the same that cycloclimbing evolution itself. Greece in the year 2015 will my human children but it's But a great disappointment surely be. really something like my baby, showing some important places too ! Did I only think one with nobody and some dreams And now the glory of this year minute in a cold evening of the of universal thoughts that : completely unexpected ! A year 1985, writing a list of 100 disappeared suddenly against funny idea suddenly become a great cycloclimbing names for some appearance of must : the ironbig25. 61 my city club and for my coming nationalism. godfathers succeeding in book "les cols de la vie" that 25 claiming 25 times a big inside a years later, we'll be more than Afterwards came the UK precise delay. Godfathers and 3000 to celebrate this baby's meeting, with his always so godmothers from every birthday, become an good sharing of adventures and countries, with original ideas, international wellknown passion, with the happiness to plenty of adventures and every challenge covering the whole meet again some persons with time a steak of life. Europe with thousand famous whom I'm so often in contact tops ? Never ! through mails but with whom Outside those bicycling events, I'm so rarely live on bike. there was also a magistral work In the year 2010, it was the Always the same fun with the like two years and a half ago, 25th birthday of the BIG, with quizz game prepared by realized by our webmaster a 2 and a 5. I also celebrated in Helmuth played by groups Wouter De Ruyck, to modify this year my personal 52nd during one evening in the our website into a still more birthday, with a 5 and a 2, too ! meeting. And the famous visited website 2.0 including I climbed the wall of Huy 25 booklet that I received! So many new features and a social times the 2nd of may, with a 2 much emotion! I'm not a very network. In fact, it's still under and a 5 too! Those numbers nervous man, but believe me, works because Wouter began rythmed my life inside this what happened in the deepness his professional life with his special year. of my brain at this moment was enterprise called Twins.IT completely terrible. It was a asking him much time to create How were my feelings all kind of common thank for so websites for so many different along the year ? Very different many efforts in the same way enterprises. But well, I'm sure in fact ! They began with a since such a long time, a that the challenge BIG has a kind of stress in front of so common thank for never special place in his hearth and many events inside such a short abandonning my wish to he always works free for us. period. "But well, let's take increase the cycloclimbing life them one by one", did I tell to in Europe. Some sentences Finally, at the end of the year, myself.... inside the booklet are every day perhaps the best success for in my hearth. I can't forget me. Thank to the comeback in I understood very rapidly that them. They are now more than the background management of my target to have one thousand ever my guiding light. our general classement's members wearing their bikes leaders Eric Lucas and Etienne over their heads in twenty-five Not able to be present in all the Mayeur, the establishment of different places during the events, I was a little the summary of our method BIG-day would be impossible. disappointed not to take part in big, more precisely than ever The period to manage it was the operation2525. But I was done before, with open doors too short, the weather was not very insured every evening, for eastern countries, stability good enough and the date was having news from the travel. It for the superlist and above all badly choosen by me even if it was a fabulous team, with very friendships between the was the beginning of the good cyclists able to ride in members, is born. Already in spring. It's a very mixed feeling autonomy, but having much the past years, the old guys, the on my own when I remember respect each one for another. pioneers of the challenge like the big-day. A great Axel and Marc told me the Jacquemin brothers and satisfaction when I see the afterwards how this travel was José Bruffaerts came back with photos with all those guys from a success. Thank to Marc for us to be busy on our beautiful so many different countries his management and to the BIG. The harmony between the doing the same gesture at the participants to have kept the old members and the new

33 BIG Review 2011 members becomes little by They are the real present of the there to give the place to a new little a reality with the official 25th birthday. younger president who will meetings that linked the keep my BIG baby alive for friendships. Thank to In the booklet souvenir of my another great period. It's the Dominique Vanstiphout, but 25 years, plenty of you wished best that I wish for my baby. also to new active women like me 25 other coming years as a Claudia Sommer, Anja Von president. Like Marc Peeters Thank you all for all that you Heydebreck, Johanna Kovacs, asked me last year in an gave me during this year and Tineke Verkuijlen, Patricia interview for a cycling those 25 years. Thank you all Donders or Marie Dredemy, magazine, I would have to to believe in the challenge BIG. the challenge is not a simple answer to the question "are you thing only for the men. The a president for life?". The women have their place among answer is simple : "I'm the us. Thank to these precisions, creator for life, but I'm not the openings, friendships and texts, president for life". I will leave the future of the challenge the job and will open this job to seems clearer than before, with a democratic vote when other new occasions to animate our members will be better than me superlist with parallel national for this job. Currently, I know lists and so on... that I still know more about the BIG history, the rules and the They have all more than 500 management of the BIG than bigs in their palmares. They are anybody else, but little by little, pioneers or not. They're living and it was my choice, other in 4 different countries. But members have very accurate they are friends now...Karl visions of it too ! And when Brenner (D), Wim Van Els I'm going to stay on place, (NL), Kevin Speed (UK), without existentialism or Dominique Jacquemin (B). creativity, the time would be

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LA SALITA CI SVELA CHI SIAMO (the climb reveals our essence) campagne, boschi alla ricerca del proprio spessore e...imprevedibili sorprese. e del significato della propria Gianni CUCCONI In autostrada, in fondo, non passeggera e precaria esistenza. Modena occorre capire dove andiamo, Sfidare i pendii fa affiorare Italia ma solo quanto tempo impietosamente i propri limiti. impiegheremo. Cimentarsi può essere Chissà se esiste un modo “non Imbrigliati tra i guard-rail, mortificante o stimolante: lo si troppo rischioso” di sembriamo una lunga coda di certifica solo provando. Di avventurarsi in qualche luogo peccatori in attesa di certo si prende coscienza della (mentale o fisico) attraversare il rosso propria dimensione. sconosciuto e intrigante, dove fiume Acheronte di dantesca Tuttavia, come si nota lasciarsi andare e scoprire le memoria. Siamo uomini ultimamente, le montagne sono nostre potenzialità, quanto intrappolati dentro una gabbia a frequentate da un sempre valiamo e chi siamo davvero, forma di colonna, con una via maggior numero di oltrepassando la parte di noi d’uscita...non sempre certa. persone, perché esse vengono che normalmente riusciamo ad E così, per non rischiare di sempre più percepite come esprimere. smarrirci (ma più che altro mezzo estremo ma nobile per Parlo di un modo non perchè non siamo capaci di ascendere al “sublime”, come esasperato di vivere (e di fare lasciarci andare), se fossero dotate di una più sport), che ci renda entusiasti e non sapremo mai quello che ci intensa e coinvolgente bellezza. soddisfatti, senza tuttavia dover stiamo perdendo... Sembrano avere il potere sconfinare nell'azzardo e nel Per tentare di vivere in modo di avvicinare al divino che per rischio. Senza osare troppo. un po’meno banale non è convenzione è sopra di noi, E se troviamo questa maniera necessario fare chissà che. lassù dove tutti lo collochiamo “cauta”, osando ma non Basta comportarsi per definizione. rischiando, sarà sufficiente per accettando una certa dose di Andare verso l’alto è una sorta capire e migliorare noi stessi? imponderabilità. di elevazione sulla mediocrità, E fino a che punto ci dobbiamo spingere nel rischio ? Se ci pensate, siamo inclini a percorsi di vita così abituali (tipo quando ogni mattina ci rechiamo al lavoro) che non si fa quasi più caso a quel che ci circonda. Ci muoviamo a testa bassa, meccanicamente, guardando ma non osservando. In fondo ognuno di noi bada più che altro a non soccombere, a difendersi dalla necessità di convivere con la è come ricrearsi un’immagine realtà, a sopravvivere meglio Vi sono luoghi, come le grandi nuova, come una sorta di che si può, più che a fare scelte montagne, che la maggior parte purificazione. Lungo il di vita distinguenti. delle persone evita o frequenta percorso si soffre, ma in cima L’uomo-medio se ad esempio solo in modo superficiale, c’è la gratificazione, che deve raggiungere una meta, si perché al loro cospetto provano cancella ogni fatica. affida più volentieri alla strada timore e sgomento. Luoghi L’assalto alla montagna è principale che ad una personale inospitali, desolati, che diventato una sfida di chi non analisi di un percorso inquietano per la loro vastità, si rassegna solamente a alternativo ma suggestivo. Per che incombono immensi su di contemplare la grandezza e il risparmiare tempo o per noi e provocano viscerali predominio di Madre Natura, pigra inclinazione alla fretta, sensazioni di inferiorità, che ma vuole farne parte. Vuole viaggiando percorre di solito d’istinto indurrebbero a essere protagonista. caotiche autostrade o sottrarci dal tentare un comunque vie consuete, che approccio. Dall’impietoso rendono meno complicati i Scalando le cime, nel nostro confronto/scontro con la natura percorsi, ma tagliano fuori caso in bicicletta, ci si mette in più selvaggia, che ci accoglie città, paesi, monumenti, gioco e in qualche misura si va ovviamente imperturbabile,

35 BIG Review 2011 scaturisce un particolare avere, lo sfidante piacere misto a timore, perchè (magari di successo) se da una parte rafforza in noi accresce la propria l’idea di poter essere gli audaci autostima. e incontrastati dominatori del Chi si è dato un pianeta, dall’altra ci fa toccare obiettivo e lo con mano la pericolosità di tale consegue, sa di che ambizioso atteggiamento. emozione parlo. L’uomo che si cimenta in tali Tuttavia quando crediamo di raggiungono mai sfide, ripetendole si abitua a aver raggiunto il Limite, anche l’appagamento, quasi non controllare e superare queste solo il nostro limite, ecco che riescono a vivere senza angosce, come un veleno esso beffardamente si sposta l’adrenalina del rischio e assunto a piccole dosi, o come più avanti, più lontano, più chiedono sempre più risorse al un’emozione da rivivere veloce, più in alto…e si loro corpo, alla loro mente, alla spesso, come in preda ad una ricomincia da capo. vita stessa. piacevole dipendenza. Ma quanto possiamo spingerci La loro anima non riesce a La prova (la salita, per noi oltre? Avremo sufficienti smettere di trovare le risposte ciclisti) rafforza la dignità del risorse psicofisiche e spirituali che si attende e che continua a singolo, attenua o annulla la per farlo? cercare, nonostante tutto ed a desolante idea di essere qualsiasi costo. insignificanti e la dolorosa Su questa fondamentale scelta Solo che alla fine di tutte le prospettiva della propria l’essere umano dovrebbe salite, sulle cime più alte, sulle “materiale scomparsa” senza fermarsi a riflettere, rendersi distanze immense, oltre i lasciare un segno, senza averci conto che la sfida propri limiti, non ci aspetta la almeno provato. è anche sofferenza, fatica, soddisfazione definitiva, ma Inutile negarlo: in certe rischio ed egoismo: pensiamo l’agghiacciante sorpresa di circostanze, in preda alle alle preoccupazioni di chi ci conoscere chi potenti endorfine della vuole bene, mentre siamo davvero, cioè esseri conquista della vetta, scatta la soddisfiamo il bisogno di limitati e mortali. “sindrome di onnipotenza”, una assecondare il nostro E scopriamo che, oltre la travolgente emozione che dà insaziabile ego. soglia, non c’è quello che assuefazione e una sensazione Qualcuno si arrende, l’illusione della nostra mente ci di trionfo. abbandona, si accontenta, perde aveva promesso: Superando limiti, ostacoli, il suo slancio e trae l’appagamento è qualcosa che è altezze o distanze che consolazione assaporando i sempre oltre la nostra portata. sembravano insormontabili, piaceri di una vita piatta, ma Vi è solamente rassegnazione. attingendo a forze che rassicurante e tranquilla. Ma qualsiasi cosa ci aspetti o ci poteva solamente sperare di Ma altri non cedono, non accada, è bello averci provato, non è vero ?

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Lake District

Pete THOMAS

I couldn't make it to the BIG reunion this year: I had to go to see my old mother, who wasn't doing well and was in the throes of moving into a nursing home. Ironically enough, she lives just an hour's drive away from Ambleside, so as I was wheeling her round in her wheelchair, I could rest easy knowing that all the BIG men were fighting their way around the Lakes.

Now some of you will think this odd: I'm a British-born BIG member who has never been cycling in the Lake District. It's a long story, but it started to get on my nerves. So There's another thing about my comes down to the fact that when I visited my mother again homeland: the weather. Bad when I lived in the UK, I was in November of this year, and enough at the best of times, and more interested in beer, now that she has settled down the week I chose wasn't even cigarettes and women than in in her new home, I decided I close to being the best of times. climbing up hills on a had time to go out for a day on I've spent some time in serious pushbike. It was only when I the bike. I planned the classic mountains, I thought, so things moved to Holland in my late triple on the Garmin: Wrynose, at 500 m should be twenties that I got interested in Hard Knott and "The Struggle" manageable, even in cycling. So the first BIGs I ever up Kirkstone Pass. Starting in November. Wrong! cycled were in… Belgium, of Ambleside, I reckoned I could On Monday, Kirkstone Pass course. get back to put on a cup of tea was closed and Ambleside only for my mother by mid- just reachable. On Tuesday, the Anyway, to get back to the afternoon. All I needed to do heavens opened again. The point, knowing I'd missed the was to pick a day. weather forecast for the rest of BIG meet and all those climbs the week was for gale-force winds. There was a possibility, a small window of opportunity, on the Wednesday. Strongish winds and a good chance of frost at the top, but what the hell: let's go!

Apart from the weather, there is also the British refusal to acknowledge the option of a hairpin bend. The Brits seem to think that the quickest, or cheapest, way to build a road on a hill is in a straight line upwards. I'm something of a veteran of the climb from the city of Lancaster into the Trough of Bowland – not a BIG, but a big climb anyway – and so I thought I'd got used

37 BIG Review 2011 to how the Brits did this. But as now count? Wracked by self- 30%. Maybe they ran out of all I passed my first sign saying doubt, I got back on the bike the other signs… 30% on the way to Wrynose, it and got things moving upwards Nope. "The struggle" is what began to dawn on me that the again on wheels. From that they call it, especially for me day might be a bit longer than I point on, I managed to navigate today. Still, it's just gone had planned. When I felt my around, and sometimes over, midday, the sun is actually rear brake wasn't working a the patches of ice waiting for shining and I have to unzip the kilometre or two later, I me round every bend, but I was front of my jacket to cool off! realized that I had more here now, and I was certainly The views are still spectacular problems than usual. And going to get to the top. (they have been all day) and Wrynose with the wind Getting to the top proved the there is an occasional pitying blowing in the wrong direction easy part. But with no back smile from a passing car. All is turned out to be quite a brake and ice on the road, well with the world. The final challenge. No problem, that's getting back down was the 500 m turns out to be tough on what I'd come for. Still, with problem. The couple of the wrist, but from here on in the freezing wind blowing a kilometres took the best part of it's all plain downhill sailing. gale on my sweat-drenched half an hour. And even at that According to the Garmin, I've torso, there was no time to stop speed and moving that cycled 55 km and climbed and think, so it was time to carefully, I had one fall (and a 1661 m. And I do get back in carry on through the sore wrist to prove it) and two time to make my mother's cup breathtaking and totally other near-falls, with the bike of tea. desolate vale to Hard Knott. skidding down the road as I waved goodbye. Now, I knew I was going up the easy side of Hard Knott, but On the way back to Wrynose, we're allowed to spoil the sun was shining into the ourselves sometimes and I also valley: a bit of welcome knew I had to go up Wrynose a warmth. And the climb back up second time on the way back to the other side of Wrynose soon get to Kirkstone Pass, so I returned my temperature to reckoned I could allow myself acceptable levels. But the wrist to take it easy. Wrong again! was getting quite stiff and Another sign saying 30%: there painful, especially on the way was still work to be done. And down Wrynose towards of course, I was not going to Ambleside, so I started to put one foot on the floor the wonder about whether "the whole way. struggle" was going to be a This is getting boring. Wrong good idea. But once I arrived in again! Round the second bend, Ambleside, with a bit of sun the water that had been flowing again to warm me up, a muesli over the road during the bar and a drink of water, things previous days had frozen into a started to look a bit brighter… solid layer of ice over the entire And after all, it's only a few width of the road. So I just had kilometres. to walk round it. Does this BIG Whoops. Another sign with

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Voorjaarsvakantie 2010 in het Verenigd Koninkrijk vertoeven we in Devon en dankbaar. Wim van ELS Cornwall. We wandelen langs de kust over verlaten paden We vinden een camping in een Op het informatiepaneel wordt enkele honderden meters boven eenzaam gehucht waar we ´s onze naam meteen zichtbaar als zeeniveau om daarna weer af te avonds tot onze verrassing nog het kenteken van ons campertje dalen naar een dorpje in een een gezellige pub ontdekken. voor het oog van de camera van de vele inhammen. Veel De volgende dag fietsen we komt. We kunnen meteen door plaatsnamen eindigen op door een heuvellandschap naar de trein die ons door de ´mouth`, geen idee of de waarbij een klein groepje Chunnel naar Dover zal ligging daar iets mee te maken Nederlanders bezig met een brengen. In Engeland ben ik heeft. We fietsen door het soort Jeepsafari tot de weinige meteen extra geconcentreerd heggenlandschap en door de passanten behoort. We fietsen want al snel moet ik vanaf links heidevelden van Exmoor en naar een bergje met de illustere invoegen op de snelweg. We Dartmoor waar we onze eerste naam Devils Staircase met hebben afgesproken dat Tineke BIG's bedwingen. bordjes 25% aan beide zijden. me telkens, als we ons voertuig We brengen een bezoek aan het Na het bereiken van de top daal starten, attendeert op deze prachtige Lands End, de ik het steilste deel af, maak wat Britse afwijking. Volledig uiterste westpunt van Cornwall, foto's en rij weer naar boven wennen aan het links rijden waar volgens de Engelsen de want we moeten dezelfde weg lukt me in de komende weken wereld begint getuige terug. Ik ben benieuwd of niet. Als ik rechtsaf sla, blijf ik benamingen als ´first house` en Tineke al dan niet lopend de onnodig naar rechts-achter ´first hotel`. top heeft bereikt maar tot mijn kijken en bij keren op de weg verrassing is ze zelfs al aan de weet je helemaal niet waar je We trekken door naar Wales. afdaling begonnen, lopend moet kijken. De omgeving is wat desolater, want het is echt allemaal te De wegen zijn soms akelig de huisjes wat minder steil voor haar. Ze is duidelijk smal met aan weerszijden een opgesmukt. Op weg naar de “not amused” als ik haar vertel heg of, meer naar het noorden, voet van de Gospal Pass rijden rechtsomkeer te maken. een muurtje. De Britten zijn het we over een one track road. gewoon rakelings langs je te Een paar oude vrouwtje rijden De volgende dag verlaten we scheuren ook als je met de fiets moeizaam achteruit naar een Wales, passeren we de Mersey bent. Een inhaalmanoeuvre passeerplek. Ik ben ze bij Liverpool en strijken neer in waarbij tegenliggers in de remmen moeten valt, net als in bepaalde ontwikkelingslanden, onder normaal verkeersgedrag. Engeland blijft toch wat meer het buitenland dan andere EU-landen.

Ergens onder Londen verlaten we de snelweg en koersen richting kust. We genieten van het voor ons vreemde landschap met haar prachtige huisjes. Het is voor ons beiden pas de tweede keer dat we Groot Brittannië bezoeken en het platteland van Engeland en Wales verrast ons in positieve zin. De eerste dagen

39 BIG Review 2011 het Lake District. Hier verzucht Helmuth. Maar wie ontmoeten we op ons rendez- stapt er uit de auto? Het is Op onze terugweg naar vous van de BIG weer een Jezus. Hij is freelance fotograaf Nederland besluiten we om te aantal fietsvrienden. Het is een en meegereisd met Claudio. overnachten nabij gezellig samenzijn met zoveel Van een eerder Rendez-vous Geraardsbergen. Uiteindelijk geestesverwanten. Ik vind het weten we al dat hij prachtige vinden we een stekkie voor de schitterend dat een aantal plaatjes kan schieten ook van camper boven op de fietsers nog veel fanatieker is grote afstand. Het is dus zaak “Kapelmuur”. We beklimmen dan ik in hun verlangen BIG's altijd netjes op de fiets te zitten, de Muur van Geraardsbergen, te scoren. Er liggen er in die zelfs een “zweet”druppel aan een makkie als je er fris aan omgeving verschillende, het puntje van je neus kan begint, en Tineke mag weer prachtige klimmetjes die een feilloos vastgelegd worden. een nieuwe BIG bijschrijven op ding gemeen hebben: ze zijn Maar ja, als je op de Hard haar palmares. Onder het motto allemaal gemeen steil. Knott Pass aan een stukje 33% “one Big, one beer” gooien we De eerste klim, de steilste zijde bezig bent, is dat een rotzorg. nog een paar Leffe achterover van de schitterende Kirkstone Na een paar dagen verkassen in het kroegje tegenover de Pass ofwel The Struggle, wordt we met de hele groep naar een kapel. met de voltallige groep gestart jeugdherberg in het Peak en boven wordt verzameld voor District waar met name de Heerlijk! een groepsfoto. Mam Tor indruk maakt Gelukkig is er tijdens de vanwege zijn beklimmingen niet veel stijgingspercentage maar verkeer, want ook op die vooral vanwege zijn bergjes rijden de auto's schoonheid. Doordat de rakelings aan je voorbij. Italianen en Spanjaarden hun Tijdens de 2e klim worden we vluchten geannuleerd zien tot driemaal toe gepasseerd vanwege de activiteiten van door een Fordje dat vervolgens een vulkaantje hebben we pardoes in de berm wordt samen nog een gezellige avond geparkeerd. “Wat een malloot” extra.

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LES PLUS HAUTES ROUTES DES ILES BRITANNIQUES Le Great Dun Fell et le Groes- après quelques soubresauts de Daniel GOBERT y-Bwlch, surtout sur un de ses pentes, s'envoler vers le haut. versants, offrent des pentes très A ma connaissance, les routes sévères et des lignes droites Le Cross Fell est une pierre revêtues les plus hautes des longues à pourcentages élevés. plateau d'environ 20km qui cinq pays, ou plutôt nations, Le Lowther Hill est plus tendre intègre le Little Dun Fell qui composent les îles pour les mollets. (842m) et le Great Dun Fell britanniques sont le Great Dun (848m). La montée est sujette Fell pour l'Angleterre, le A chaque fois les paysages y au brouillard dans une colline Lowther Hill pour l'Ecosse, le sont larges, changeant de colline dense et à des vents Groes-y-Bwlch pour le Pays de couleurs au fil des saisons, violents. Un bruit hurlant Galles, le Mount avec cette impression de haute induite par le vent Helm est Leinster pour l'Irlande du Sud montagne dans des altitudes une caractéristique de l'endroit. et le Mullaghmore pour basses. Ce sont des déserts Il peut être un lieu inhospitalier l'Irlande du Nord. peuplés de paysages à couper le pour une grande partie de souffle, dans une quiétude l'année. Dans les temps anciens Comme vous le constatez, les apaisante. il était connu comme "Démons trois premiers de la grande île Fell" et considéré comme le sont dans notre superliste; les 1. GREAT DUN FELL : la repaire de mauvais esprits. Il a deux derniers de la petite île n'y plus haute route revêtue été spéculé que cette dernière sont pas. d'Angleterre caractéristique peut-être Du haut de ses 848m, le Great pourquoi la montée est connue J'ai eu l'occasion lors du Dun Fell a déjà hérité de 36 sous le nom de la Croix-Fell meeting officiel de cette année visiteurs dans le challenge BIG. («croix» qui signifie «en dans le Yorkshire d'effectuer Il a remplacé l'ancien fond de colère»). Une autre théorie est sur la même journée le Great vallée intitulé Thirl Moor dans que à un moment donné une Dun Fell en compagnie de mes notre superliste il y a quelques croix a été placée au sommet pairs et le Lowther Hill en années. afin de conjurer les esprits. solitaire. Ce fut une journée Lors du meeting anglais, nous Mais l'origine du nom n'est pas peuplée d'images grandioses. avons eu beaucoup de mal à le connue avec certitude. trouver depuis le village Avant de spécifier les Knock. En fait, il faut prendre caractéristiques de ces cinq une route sans signalisation ascensions et sommets, vers l'est avant le village, quelques généralités à leurs laisser un parking à sa droite et propos seraient les bienvenues. J'ai effectué les trois ascensions de la superliste et je peux vous certifier que vous y rencontrerez de la... tranquillité. Je n'ai croisé que des piétons au Lowther Hill, que des cyclistes aux deux autres, pas une voiture !

Le Great Dun Fell et le Lowther Hill sont privés, mais privés à l'anglaise. c'est-à-dire qu'une barrière dissuasive pour les voitures se trouvent au milieu de la route mais vous pouvez la contourner en vélo et vous trouver par après dans un décor de rêve sans circulation automobile.

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Points en tourisme : 5/10 Monument (boule blanche) Parking Pancarte (preuve sur la photo d'Eric Lucas) Point de vue 'c'est le moins qu'on puisse dire!) Plus haut ou Légende (c'est la 01:27:52 plus haute route revêtue Catégorie 1 d'Angleterre) Catégorie 2 01:23:28 Catégorie 3 01:19:05 Points Tourisme 5 Points Media 1 Catégorie 4 01:14:41 Points Bombe 6 Catégorie 5 01:10:17 Points Energie 6 Catégorie 6 01:05:54 Donc, Etoiles BIG = 4 et Score Catégorie 7 01:01:30 Qualité BIG = 49 Place au classement zonal 1er Catégorie 8 00:57:07 Place au classement général Catégorie 9 00:48:19 365e 00:39:32 Catégorie 10 Altitude pied 182 GPS Localisation - 2.52935/54.64126 Altitude 848 Différence 666 Longueur 9,8 Moyenne 6,8 Maximum 17,3

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2. LOWTHER HILL : la plus Etoiles BIG 3 & Score Qualité de la balle de golf radôme, haute route revêtue d'Ecosse BIG 36 qu'on voit de plus en plus et qui Place au classement zonal 17e donne cette apparence de boule Place au classement général blanche visible de très loin. 706e

Altitude pied 281 GPS Localisation - 3.66021/55.4392 Altitude 725 Différence 444 Longueur 15,5 Moyenne 2,9 Maximum 13,6 Du haut de ses 725m, le Lowther Hill a déjà hérité de Catégorie 1 01:31:43 25 visiteurs dans le challenge Catégorie 2 01:27:08 BIG. Catégorie 3 01:22:32 Il a remplacé l'ancien fond de Catégorie 4 01:17:57 vallée intitulé Glen Affric dans Catégorie 5 01:13:22 notre superliste il y a quelques Catégorie 6 01:08:47 années. Catégorie 7 01:04:12 Lors du meeting anglais, j'ai eu Catégorie 8 00:59:37 du mal à trouver le début du Catégorie 9 00:50:26 final à la sortie de Catégorie 10 00:41:16 Wanlockhead, venant de Cette balle de golf qui ne Elvanfoot par le versant NE. Il Lowther Hill se trouve à l'équipait pas à l'origine protège faut se laisser redescendre une environ un mile au sud-est de les antennes radar des centaine de mètres et bien viser la cité minière de vieux plomb intempéries. à gauche une route privée Wanlockhead. La colline est le munie d'une barrière deuxième plus haut sommet Notons que le sommet est muni immédiate. La contourner et des Lowther Hills, une partie de plusieurs antennes et boules s'envoler vers le haut. des hautes terres du sud, et blanches. La dénivellation s'élève à près de 2.378 pieds entre les deux antennes est très (725 m). Station Lowther faible. Vous éprouverez Radar Hill 2008 : Lowther Hill d'ailleurs du mal au sommet à est le site de l'un des système savoir laquelle (c'est celle qui de radar utilisé par NATS se situe le plus à gauche en (National Air Traffic Services), montant) est la plus haute. qui est le prestataire de Green Lowther (celle de navigation principal du gauche) est à 732m mais on Royaume-Uni, avec les peut s'arrêter à Lowther Hill mouvements de l'air au nord de (725m). Carlisle qui sont traités par le centre de contrôle régional écossais (SACC). Il s'agit principalement d'une Points en tourisme : 5/10 opération civile pour Monument (boule blanche) le Royaume-Uni, Parking mais toutes les Pancarte opérations sont Point de vue (très large) entièrement intégrées Plus haut ou Légende (c'est la aux opérations plus haute route revêtue militaires pour assurer d'Ecosse) la sécurité aérienne dans les deux pays. Points Media 1 L'équipement radar à Points Tourisme 5 Lowther Hill est Points Bombe 4 aujourd'hui englobé Points Energie 4 dans le style familier

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3. BWLCH Y GROES : la versant sud de Bwlch y Groes, plus haute route revêtue du long d'environ 1.7 miles offrant Pays-de-Galles souvent du 25%, fut très connu et réputé dans les années 1970 et 1980 comme la côte la plus sévère empruntée par la course cycliste Milk Race round- Britain.

Altitude pied 160 GPS Localisation - 3.63124/52.75388 Altitude 545 Différence 385 Longueur 3,6 Du haut de ses 525m, le Moyenne 10,7 Lowther Hill a déjà hérité de Maximum 20 44 visiteurs dans le challenge BIG. Catégorie 1 00:48:19 Ce col est dans la superliste Catégorie 2 00:45:54 depuis que cette liste comprend Catégorie 3 00:43:29 1000 noms. Catégorie 4 00:41:04 Le versant sud depuis Catégorie 5 00:38:39 Mawddwy est terriblement Catégorie 6 00:36:14 pentu avec des lignes quasi Catégorie 7 00:33:50 droites à flanc de collines. Catégorie 8 00:31:25 Catégorie 9 00:26:35 Bwlch y Groes (le col de la Catégorie 10 00:21:45 Croix) est le col le plus élevé du Pays-de-Galles avec une Points en tourisme : 5/10 altitude de 545 metres (1,788 Monument (croix de pieds). Il est situé sur une route pèlerinage) mineure reliant Dinas Parking Mawddwy (via Pancarte (panneau explicatif - Llanymawddwy), voir photo de Marnix Van Llanuwchllyn et Lake Vyrnwy. Hecke) La croix, située juste sous la Point de vue (très large) Marnix Van Hecke au sommet jonction entre les routes issues Plus haut ou Légende de Vyrnwy et de Dinas (c'est la plus haute Mawddwy, commémore le route revêtue du Pays- passage d'un chemin de de-Galles) pèlerinage à travers le nord de ce petit pays. Points Media 1 La vue du sommet englobe une Points Tourisme 4 grande partie de la vallée, Points Bombe 7 appelée Dyfi valley, comprend Points Energie 5 aussi Cadair Idris et une vue un peu plus fermée sur Aran Etoiles BIG 4 & Score Fawddwy. Qualité BIG 44 Place au classement Le Bwlch y Groes est aussi zonal 5e connu sous le vocable Hellfire Place au classement Pass (col des feux de l'enfer), et général 512e était utilisé avant et pendant la guerre par la Austin Motor Company et la Standard Triumph Motor Company afin de tester les performances de leurs voitures dans des ascensions costaudes. Le

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4. MOUNT LEINSTER : la plus haute route revêtue d'Irlande du Sud

Mount Leinster (en Irlandais : Stua Laighean) est une des plus hautes montagnes de la région de Leinster en Irlande. C'est la plus élevée des Blackstairs Mountains à 796 metres (2,605 ft). Une antenne de télévision RTE, transmet au sommet avec une hauteur de 122 m. C'est donc la plus haute revêtue d'Irlande du Sud, mais elle n'est pas incluse dans la superliste du BIG.

La place proche de l'antenne TV est un endroit privilégié pour les parapentes et autres ULM. En 2003, un fana du un moindre pourcentage moyen OSI/OSNI grid C739008 parapente s'est crashé en de 5.9%. Le dernier kilomètre contrebas. Un monument à sa de ce versant est difficile avec An Mullach Mór signifie "big mémoire se situe près de une pointe à 16.3%. summit", soit le grand sommet l'antenne sommitale. ou le sommet big). Le sommet 5. MULLAGHMORE : la est dominé par une grande La montagne est la plupart du plus haute route revêtue antenne de télécommunication. temps grimpée à partir des d'Irlande du Nord La montagne est située au nord Neuf Pierres ( Nine Stones, un du village de Draperstown. point de terre au pied du Mullaghmore est la plus haute Mount Leinster, à environ 8 route d'Irlande du Nord, et miles à l'est de Borris). Depuis vient de "An Mullach Mór ". Borris, il existe une route qui Son altitude est de 550m (1,804 mène au parking pour visiteurs ft), mais elle n'est pas située dans la montagne. A partir de dans la superliste du BIG. Situé ce point, la RTÉ access road dans le County Londonderry et mène jusqu'au sommet. Cette dans les montagnes du Sperrin route est maintenant fermée à (cf.BIG n°51) tout trafic et les autorités ont Topo map OSNI Discoverer empêché l'accès à la tour TV Series 8 (1:50000) pour éviter le vandalisme.

Cyclisme : Mount Leinster a souvent été utilisé dans les étapes du Tour d'Irlande et très souvent aussi dans la course "The FBD Insurance Rás" (Rás Tailteann).Il emprunte le versant partant de Borris dans le County Carlow ou le versant partant de Bunclody dans le County Wexford. A partir de Borris, l'ascension est longue de 11 km et a un pourcentage moyen de 6.9%. Les deux derniers kilomètres sont très exigeants offrant même du 16%. L'autre versant, bien que plus long et mesurant 13 km, a

45 BIG Review 2011

UK MEETING 2010 When Kevin speeds himself this incredible and so slopy speeding down as I was Yorkshire. struggling up! I may have SOUVENIRS organised to the best of my When Caesar conquered our ability but what is Participants : Jurgen Reckhaus, country he said “Vini, Vidi, ‘organisation’ without the Marc Desender, Daniel Gobert, Vici” – “I came, I saw, I willing participation of keen Kevin Speed, Peter Notten, conquered” cyclo-climbers, happy with the Jean-Pierre Notten, Bernard There followed the Norman plan? I was concerned about Frogneux, Dominique invasion but no one else has linking Fleet Moss with the Vanstiphout, Dominique succeeded since – until the North Pennine passes and so Jacquemin, Gilles Jacquemin, friendly invasion of the relieved that you accepted an Helmuth Dekkers, Patricia members of the BIG. You amendment to link it with the Donders, Mauro Repetti, came, you saw and you South Pennine climbs of Daniel Briollet (+ sa femme); conquered 14 of our toughest Cow&Calf and Oxenhope Claudio Montefusco, Luciano BIG’s and I had the proud Moor – well some of you Cattaneo, Steven Feys, Wim privilege of riding with you – anyway as a certain un-named Van Els, Tineke Verkuijlen, well some of the time, and with few had the sheer madness to Claudia Sommer & Karl some of you! drive (cycle?) nearly 80km to Brenner, Jean-Luc Matte, the east to conquer Rosedale François Candau, Christian Le Many of you are too fast for Chimney – not to mention Corre, Johanna Kovacs, my aging legs as you pound up Carter Bar and Lowther Hill! Alessandro Repetti. those passes like there is no Well you’re here the once so why not take the opportunity – but I still think you’re mad! I was impressed with the persistence of Dan motoring up from Dover and then getting lost in Windermere, so near yet so far when he could have joined us earlier – yes it was Lake Windermere not Windermere town! Grateful thanks to Helmuth for his quiz, putting me right on my under- estimate of mileage (sorry kilometreage) between Ilkley- Oxenhope and for his good speech in many languages – I understood one of them – to Dan and his presentation. Grateful thanks to Tineke and Patricia for joining Ruth on the tomorrow! It really was a great walk around Mam Tor / Let's give the voice to Kevin pleasure to meet you all again Winnats Pass and being so Speed himself, the slow Speed, after 2 years and for sure I’ll be friendly. She really appreciated but the so practical and with you in Corsica next year. it and, like me, see’s the club as efficient meeting's manager of Most of you have increased people and not just scoring this year Kevin. The great your BIG score but no increase Kevin. In june 2010, let's say for me – just the increase in that Kevin speeds himself to friendship with you all. I went help all the other participants of to the top of them all (except our official annual meeting, to Fleet Moss – only to the top of give good company to the the steepest section), whole group and to show us all sometimes alone at the top but the magnificent sceneries of you were all there somewhere on each climb – usually

46 BIG Review 2011 numbers of passes each year. I Thanks to Mauro for his offer incontournables du BIG : Marc, was amused by many things – already. I’ll meet you near François, Mauro, Claudio, especially you Mauro – and all Tirano hopefully. Anyway, for Christian, Helmuth, those animal noises in various now, God bless you all – and to Dominique, Wim, Karl. tongues – I know the other photographer Jesus! Heureux d'y voir tant de people sitting round in the pub présence féminine avec weren’t amused though! Regards Kevin Dominique, Tineke, Claudia, Patricia. Heureux de revoir We eventually had the room to Je suis parti le mercredi matin Bernard, Jean-Pierre, Kevin ourselves as others trickled out de chez moi avec mon vélo et l'oganisateur génial et with annoyed looks on their deux sacs. Le matin, c'était la flegmatique pur british du faces but then we spent enough fête sportive de mon école, j'ai séjour. Heureux de découvrir money! I might not be able to fait un tour de 30km avec les Daniel Briollet et sa femme, go back to that pub for some élèves, puis à midi, direction Jürgen, Luciano, Peter, Steven, weeks…! I chuckled to see you Calais, le ferry, Douvres et la et en fin de séjour : Johanna, all from a distance climbing the longue, trop longue traverseée Alan, Alessandro, Ruth. bends of the Hard Knott Pass. de Londres et de l'Angleterre Heureux d'y voir la jeunesse It was like watching a helter- pour rejoindre ses terres avec Gilles, d'y croiser (hasard skelter on a fairground going in paradisiaques du nord-ouest. répétitif) Jean-Luc. Enfin, reverse. Thanks to Christian for J'ai tourné dix fois à incroyable rencontre, j'ai enfin having the extreme patience to Windermere avant de rencontré (et perdu !) Jesus. collect the accommodation comprendre que l'auberge était Sur la route, j'ai retrouvé 15 money from everybody and à Ambleside à 2km de là. Je ans plus tard mes make it balance. I would never suis arrivé à 1h du matin. J'ai émerveillements pentus du like to be a treasurer as cherché un lit libre et je me suis Wrynose, Hard Knott, accuracy is essential. I couldn’t couché comme cela à même le Kirkstone et Honister. Je garde anyway as I’m not in Euroland. matelas. un plaisir énorme de la montée I’d like to mention you all by du Kirkstone avec tout le name to thank you but you groupe et du merveilleux know I mean it when I tank paysage au sommet. Je each and every one of you for remercie Marc de m'avoir aidé your company in our like- pour ma crevaison au pied du ,indeed pursuit. I’ll get my own Wrynose et Jürgen de m'avoir back next year in Corsica when motivé à accélérer sur le haut I can claim some BIG’s. de Hard Knott. Je remercie Kevin pour ses explications I’d like to mention you all by Le jeudi fut un grand jour de dans la vallée avant le Honister name to thank you but you retrouvailles et de nouvelles et tous ceux qui m'ont know I mean it when I thank connaissances. Retrouvailles gentiment salué dans ma seule each and every one of you for avec les habitués des meetings, nouveauté de la journée, le your company in our like- les grosses pointures, les Whinlatter. Puis le soir, juste minded pursuit. I’ll get my own personnages, les après mon discours présidentiel back next year in Corsica when I can claim some BIG’s. One request – please could each of you mail Ambleside and Castleton youth hostels to thank them – they had a lot to put up with!

Especially Castleton when we lost Jesus, the girl there was very helpful I’m sure you agree?

One last thing, I’m soon going to compile an itinerary for my Swiss and North Italy tour in July. If any of you are near my route I’d love your company.

47 BIG Review 2011 habituel, ce fut la surprise, un sud jusqu'à Byrness, ses hôtels Quizz inter-équipes. Photos à la des plus cadeaux de ma vie. et son lac avant de remonter pelle, victoire des Helmuth prit la parole en une ascension au trafic francophones, on n'oubliera pas secrétaire efficace et si aimable encombrant et qui vaut plus par que Jésus a su trouver Calf de qu'il est, pour me remettre un son sommet que par elle-même. Cow & Calf, que Dominique a livret contenant les 25 ans du J'ai mis ensuite trois heures de passé tout le jeu debout, que big et un témoignage de voiture pour arriver à a suivi Jeannie sympathie de membres de tous Elvanfoot, le pied du Lowther Longo,... Quelle ambiance, pays. A la lecture de ce livret Hill. Celui-ci est magnifique. quel beau groupe. Le big a l'art que je viens de kevin-readé, je Je suis fier d'avoir grimpé de réunir des gens au suis devenu un ironlarme25. jusqu'aux plus hauts points comportement non plaintif : Quelques phrases de votre part routiers anglais et écossais le c'est tellement rare ! Entraide, resteront à jamais gravées dans même jour. Une route rouge esprit sportif et amitié : quel ma mémoire. Je suis touché, dans un paysage de western luxe ! ému,... Plus de mots pour nous mène dans une vallée l'exprimer. suivie d'un petit mur à Le samedi fut mon jour tom- Leadhills, où on prend à tom en compagnie de Claudio Le vendredi fut un jour partagé gauche. A la sortie du village, dans la voiture. J'ai pris du en deux pour moi avec il ne faut surtout pas louper une plaisir à converser avec lui. l'extraordinaire ascension du route d'apparence anodine à Nous avons fait un groupe de 5 Great Dun Fell, un monument à l'extrême-gauche, avec une en compagnie des Notten (JP et ne pas louper pour ses pentes barrière qu'il faut contourner. P.) qui furent notre formidable exceptionnelles, et un paysage Ensuite, sur un asphalte parfait tom-tom GPS, et de Jürgen qui qui doit l'être encore plus rouge ou noir selon les nous suivaient et qu'on devait lorsque la brume ne recouvre kilomètres, vous grimpez dans attendre en voiture, qu'on pas la région comme c'était le un décor de rêve sous un soleil suivait et qui devait nous cas, hélas ! Une ascension en revenu pour ma part. On atteint attendre en vélo. Formidable groupe faite de communion et un pylône électrique, puis le paysage lunaire au Rosedale de beauté. Deuxième partie : monument en forme de tour Head qui est une belle pente j'ai quitté le groupe pour ne pas ronde et enfin le deuxième courte à partir de Westdale où à nouveau refaire des bigs déjà pylône presque à la même un villageois ne nous réserva faits, et je suis parti seul en altitude que la tour ronde. pas le meilleur accueil local Ecosse. J'ai parqué la voiture à Majestueux ! Retour en deux qu'on ait connu :-) Vison côté de la pierre qui sépare heures par l'autoroute à ensoleillée d'un cadre unique. l'Angleterre de l'Ecosse, et je l'auberge de jeunesse pour le Ensuite, deux anciens bigs pour suis redescendu la nationale au toujours agréable et ludique moi : le touristique Cow & Calf et le Oxenhope. Marrant, je me suis garé dans la même rue qu'en 1995 avec Eric Lucas. J'ai regardé comme à l'époque le match de cricket au pied et j'ai fait la course avec Claudio et Jürgen comme je l'avais fait avec Eric. Bis repetita ! Juste un problème : les autres membres du groupe ont pris à gauche au milieu pour atteindre le Moor plus haut. A l'instar de l'Allgauer Berghof, l'an passé, discussion (gentille) sur où se trouve le sommet. Vu que c'est une ascension médiatique, la Leeds classic (ou Wincanton Classic) ne prenait que la nationale et le profil du site donne cette nationale. La topo et le nom renvoient plutôt sur les pourcentages de la petite route annexe. Le sticker de Kevin aussi. Il faudra trancher

48 BIG Review 2011 en novembre mais toutes les son travail de l'ombre pour communion d’essoufflements réussites comptent nous goinfrer de bigs à gogo et et d’encouragements franco- évidemment. le laissant à l'arrière des english . troupes et en partant à la fin du Le dimanche, je les quittai trop meeting chacun de notre côté Succès total pour le BIG-Day, rapidement et avec regret. La comme des voleurs. Il doit les Irons-Bigs, le UK- meeting route était longue pour mon savoir à quel point nous lui et le Big-larmes ; personne retour. Filer sur le sud par sommes reconnaissants d'avoir n’aurait eu l’impertinence d’en l'autoroute après les avoir tout préparé ainsi, que nous douter . C’était écrit d’avance. dépassés alors qu'ils grimpaient avons admiré sa volonté à re .. le Mam Tor par le Winnats grimper ces bigs inouïs "juste Sur le retour, il suffisait Pass. Arriver à Cheddar où se pour le plaisir" et apprécié son d’admirer BIG BEN (Merci à déroulait la cyclosportive "10 humeur égale et joyeuse (je Daniel Briollet de m’avoir mis miles de Bristol" pour devoir suis bien placé pou en parler sur la voie divine) être bloqué et devoir par puisque j'ai fait chambre conséquent me limiter à un seul commune avec lui tout au long Dominique Jacquemin big pour la journée. Mais quel du meeting). big. Dans ces gorges pentues Je remercie également tous les The fear of not being able to (16%) et belles, grimper en amis qui ont bien voulu come to the meeting was compagnie de 500 cyclosportifs rejoindre ce meeting (avec une enormous. We planned to anglais sous les mention particulière pour nos climb the Bigs in Wales in the applaudissements des amis espagnols et italiens) car days before the meeting, but spectateurs, passer le tapis c'est cette diversité de the cloud of the volcanic ash d'arrivée sans faire bip-bip nationalités et de personnalités has done the trick. We return n'ayant pas de chips ni de qui font la grande richesse des home with the flight delayed of dossards sous les yeux étonnés meetings du BIG. J'aurais 3 days and we moved with the des organisateurs, ce fut un peu presque envie de mettre un anxiety of not being able to go, magique. Ne pas oublier de petit mot pour chacun de ceux after months of planning and prendre à gauche après 5 km avec qui j'ai échangé waiting this week cycling. But pour atteindre le point haut passionnément pendant ces someone has looked down and régional et me voilà reparti à quelques jours. on Wednesday 12 our plane l'ouest pour le trafic londonien takes off. Rent a car and drive du dimanche soir, le ferry Je crois que le mot qui résume to Ambleside where Luciano Douvres-Calais et un retour à tout appartient à Claudia : "In a and I arrived at 23 pm. I see 1h du matin auprès de ma BIG meeting, I feel like home". with joy Daniel, Patricia and famille. Nathalie m'attendait So do I, Claudia ! So do we, Helmuth, Claudio, Marc, encore éveillée. Homme Kevin; thanks for all. Francois, Beranrd, Wim and heureux, j'étais. 7 heures plus Christian and I know at last the tard, j'étais sur l'estrade : disons François Candau great organizer Kevin Speed, que c'est autre chose :-) Karl and Claudia, Steven, La réunion du Big s’est Jurgen, Notten brothers, Jesus Merci à tous d'avoir été là, terminée. Les lampions se sont the photograph, Gilles, merci encore à Kevin pour éteints. Place aux Dominique and Dominique, l'organisation et enfin, je ne commentaires et louanges Daniel Briollet and his wife, peux qu'être fier d'être ami réciproques. Malheureusement, Tineke...... A sandwich and avec vous tous après un tel je ne pourrai laisser libre cours fast way upstairs to mount the cadeau. Merci, merci, merci, à ma plume car dans trois jours 2 bikes. merci ! a lieu le rendez-vous des Monts de France dont j’assure First day = the five “ killer Daniel Gobert l’organisation (chaque’s sa tour climbs " was a good started ; I !). Photos et texte plus touffu personally suffered a lot this Avant toutes choses, je crois devront attendre un peu. Mais day biking, probably for the que nous devons tous un je tenais ,dès aujourd’hui, à long travel and everything else énorme merci à Kevin pour son remercier Kevin pour son have affected my performance, organisation préalable et son organisation et sa gentillesse. but was equally a mythical day. implication sur place. Tout était Nous avons fait un petit bout Great first step together irréprochable : les parcours, le de chemin poussif ensemble, le thorough the "The Struggle" of logement, la nourriture, la dialogue pour un frog leg the Kirkstone Pass ...... then météo ! Nous, biggers n’entendant rien à Shakespeare gradually the terrible Wrynose impénitents, avons profité de , se limita dès lors à une and Hard Knott ...... and

49 BIG Review 2011 finally the short but with a ….and the Italian flag (why? Michael and Alan, and terrible start Honister . The Kevin will tells me ....) exposed Alessandro shooted us great Whinlatter was the more at the top along with the Union pictures. affordable. In the evening Jack. A lake awaited us at the Helmuth gifted to the Presi- top of Oxenhope Moor with a I was very pleased to have Dan the book with the thoughts beautiful scenery, nice climb, Johanna involved with her of several BIG friends for the even this without traffic. We husband Alan Kovacs (not 25th of BIG………Daniel was reach finally Castleton where being a member but did Ciw & very touched …. ... good book, we went to the Hostel. In the Calf and Mam Tor) and good memories, well done evening we remain Michael. ... thanks for coming, Helmuth !!!!! apprehensive about the hope you enjoyed all. A heart- temporary "disappearance" of thanks to Kevin for the Second day = how can we Jesus, who suddenly reappears organization and for every forget the Great Dun Fell? (with a name like that) ...... answer to every question that fantastic climb even without a ...he have had some problems was addressed to him : very car, perfect road, sheep and with the car, but then it all kind in accompanying the walk horses around, and hard worked out well ... on the Mam Tor landslide, we slopes……to the top wind and could not find a better tour fog that covered the globe- The fourth day = we started guide. Thanks to all the friends radar ..., .. then the Hartside immediately with Mam Tor, I already knew and I saw with Cross , climb completely which means 20-22% for 1.5 great pleasure and Thanks to different from all the previous km. But the effort was superior the news one I I have never met six: here the maximum gradient to the slopes, because we are before , all wonderful people does not exceed 9-10 gripped by a fierce headwind with the same passion. A %...... to the end of the day and we all do a lot of effort not special thanks to Luciano with the wonderful Westernhope only to increase, but also for whom I was magnificently, Moor, again zero cars.. ... we not put ours feet to the ground both great companion while got to know a local farmer who and not fall down because of climbing and out of biking no more left to go ...... and those strong gusts. Fortunately, (excellent navigator with the on top of the BIG ….BIG the slope decreases and the atlas and the Tom Tom .... we laughs with Jesus in a nobody- Mam Tor was won. We move have never wrong a road, I land… ... The big quiz covered on to Holme Moss, the famous drove for one thousand the evening , where our Team climb of the ; kilometers in total relaxation Italy-Spain-Belgium comes Luciano and I did both sides , with a co-driver like him !!!). second; great fun, and BIG the most difficult first, then the We also made a lot of laughter laughter ...... what a family!!!! longer but easier one from along that my abdominal is still Holmfirth. As a last climb of hurting ... Ah ... Ah.. Finally, Third day = we move in the the meeting we went to how can we forget the beautiful Peak District, but first we Glossop, where the Snake Pass Sunday evening in the pub, climbed another hill with a nice was comparable for gradients where our noisy chats / laughs hard ramp to 22% visible from at the Hartside: a climb with have run out of the pub all the Hawes, the Fleet Moss. The average 7-8% without slopes customers ...... what a BIG- company was wonderful with killer. Strong wind at the top band we are !!!!! Meetings are Luciano and Gilles also, the where we met Kevin, Johanna, always too short unfortunately, young of the group, very nice and good boy that I aspect here in Tirano to go together to do the Mortirolo or otherwise. With the cars we reached Ilkley, where we have an appointment with my son, Alexander and with Johanna, her husband Alan and her brother Michael, who join us for the quick ascent of the Cow & Calf. This is the climb that I don’t liked , too much traffic, too short and not too demanding; in good memories I have the rocks at the summit

50 BIG Review 2011

friendly and helpful to us and to everyone.

Finally, a word or two to acknowledge the encouragement of our great friend, Mauro, who first introduced me to cycling uphill in the mountains surrounding his home, and who coaxed and cajoled me up the Stelvio Pass a couple of years ago to achieve my first and, until last weekend, my only BIG. I am going to invest in a modest road bike, learn how to use the gears properly, how to stand at it would take more time to be Moss, and I fell off!!), I wore the steepest points, put a label together ...... then we expect my rain jacket going uphill (a on my rain jacket saying the next one ... And in the mistake apparently, but very ‘descent only’ and start meantime keep in touch! Call English I’m sure!) and I climbing!! to all: if you come in Italy, as thought my heart was going to well as being welcome, do not burst out of my chest on Thanks for the inspiration!!! hesitate to contact me ...... I Winnat’s Pass - but I climbed wait YOU !!! it!! Johanna Kovacs Ciao Mauro Repetti The greatest pleasure for me Next official meeting in was to see my husband Corsica think the comment of my catching the climbing bug and friend Mauro is complete, he following me up to the top of explained everything well, then Mam Tor – brilliant!! The it is useless to say more about enthusiasm and friendliness of the days spent together if not the group was wonderful, and I for me to thank Kevin for his would like to thank all of you excellent organization, all the for making us feel so welcome. friends met at the meeting for In particular, I would like to the excellent company, on the express both my admiration pedals and not. Thank you to and thanks to Kevin, who had the friends Mauro and Alex for clearly put so much hard work sharing these days into organizing the event and unforgettable. Hope to see you who, with Ruth, was so all at the next meeting in Corsica.

Luciano Cattaneo Unfortunately, I had to be in school for the first two days of Challenge UK, but I was very happy to be able to join everyone at the Cow and Calf on Saturday morning.

I am not an experienced cyclist (I re-define the word ‘slow’), but I am thrilled to have completed five challenges on Saturday and Sunday! I didn’t use the gears correctly (they slipped at one point on Holme

51 BIG Review 2011

Italian Day in The Netherlands!

Helmuth DEKKERS

Due to the fact that The BIG celebrated it's 25th anniversary I had started to create a small booklet that contained a one pager from all of our key BIG members. Hence I also had contact with Luigi Candeli who had organised the BIG day on the Passo della Futa in Italy. He indicated in one of his mails if I would also come along when he and some fellow Italians would come over to cycle all the Dutch BIGs in one weekend. This thought got stuck in my brain and I delved into the details to see if it was possible to come along and know where I exactly was and I in Italy. He had suggested they meet Luigi in person. He was did not see any signs either. would come over and had even there in 2008 when the BIG Hmmm, I turned on my GPS arrange a place for them to meeting was in Flanders but I and looked for the direction I stay. The route was prepared did not have much contact with had to follow to Groesbeek. I and cycled in advance by him the Italian team that weekend did at the time not know how to and Ingmar and they had the for some reasons that are still a activate the routing. No route in the GPS. Besides mystery to me. Anyway it worries, I at least knew what Luigi, also Gabriele Brunetti would be nice to meet in direction I had to take. But my was there who I met last year person. The BIG website initial idea to be way too early during the BIG meeting in provided details as Martin Kool got down the drain and at some Oberstdorf. The other Italians I had even set up a separate page stage even the idea that I would did not know and as most of for this event. I checked and be in time. But after I had them only spoke Italian, getting found out that I could only join activated my GPS it went better to know them was not so easy. on the Saturday when they and I arrived there around But they were friendly and full would cycle the 3 BIGs near 09:35. Later on I found out I of enthusiasm. Let's move! Nijmegen/Arnhem. No got a fine for speeding as I problem, I contacted Martin drove 58 km/h in Mijmegen We left Groesbeek and cycled Kool and indicated I wanted to where I was only allowed to first towards Wyler until we come along and that was OK. drive 50 km/h. Blast! Anyway, reached the Kleefsebaan. There My BIG cycling mate of the I was taking my bike from the we turned left and cycle to 2009 BIG meeting, Roland bike carrier when another Nijmegen. We cycled through Schuyer, was also coming I cyclist came to me and asked if the outskirts of Nijmegen until heard. That's good news. So I I was Martin Kool. Nope, but I we came to the River Waal. would meet Roland and Martin am a BIG member! It was Jip This is one of the Great Rivers again and the Italians! Coolen who would also come that flow through The along that day. Good! It's good Netherlands. To be able to 24th of April. to meet new members. A little write this text I had to refresh As we would meet at 10:00 at later also Roland arrived then my geography. For me there the Liberation museum in Martin and finally the Italian are 3 Great Rivers that cut The Groesbeek I left in time that crew accompanied by Gerard Netherlands more or less in an day. Well in time even! At start van Dongen and Ingmar de upper and a lower part. For me it looked like I would be there Weijer. I found out that though these are the Meuse or Maas as way too early. But then I came Martin had been promoting the we call it, the Waal and the across a road deviation and at event on the BIG webpages Rhine or Rijn as we write it some stage I did not see the that the idea initially came (pronounciation is the same). signs anymore. I was totally from Gerard who had met But when one looks at the lost I can tell you as I did not Luigi when he cycled L'Eroica details then it is more

52 BIG Review 2011 complicated. So we cycled Ricordo d'Olanda horses (Cavallo/Cavalli) in the from Groesbeek via Nijmegen floodplains as we cycled along to the river Waal. Now I have Quando penso all’ Olanda the Waal river on the dyke that just learned that in fact the Vedo grandi fiumi runs beside it. Waal is the main distributary fluire lentamente branch of the river Rhine (it attraverso pianure sconfinate, seems it carries 65% of the file di impensabili The roads on the dykes are total flow of the river Rhine) so pioppi sottili narrow and every now and then I will share this with you and si ergono come pennacchi when a car is coming towards teach you some Dutch all'orizzonte: us I hear: Macchina! The geography too. We crossed the e perse Italian word for car to warn Waal via the Waalbridge and nello spazio enorme that we have to take care as then turned right to go beneath le fattorie cars were passing us. So I the bridge to follow the Waal punteggiano i campi, learned some Italian words too river. This landscape near the ciuffi di alberi, villaggi, when I talked to Luigi Candeli. Great Rivers is typically Dutch torri in rovina I also learned, while we were I would say. A Dutch poet, chiese e olmi talking about Italian food, that Hendrik Marsman, once wrote in una maestosa unione, Saltimbocca means "Jump in a beautiful poem called "A il cielo è basso the mouth". And it's true! memory of Holland" on it: e lentamente il sole When you take a bite then the è soffocato sage can cause a your mouth to A memory of Holland in una variopinta grigia make a jump due to the Thinking of Holland foschia, explosion of taste. I see wide rivers e in tutte le parti del paese Unfortunately only Gigi slugging through la voce del mare (nickname for Luigi) and limitless low-lying land, è ascoltata e temuta, Gabriele Brunetti speak a lot in lines of implausibly con i suoi disastri senza fine. english. The other ones did not gauzy poplars feel so comfortable to talk like feathered plumes Translated by Luigi Candelli english or could only speak in far distances stand; Italian unfortunately. When we and sunken away reached the Ewijkse bridge we in the formidable vastness turned right towards the the farmsteads countryside and left the great scattered are found, Waal river behind us. Here we tree clumps, villages, could smell the Lime trees pollarded steeples (Tilia) at places and we churches and elms enjoyed cycling through the in one great design bound. gorgeous countryside. I had put the sky hangs low there away the loose sleeves that I and in grey vapours of colour was wearing at start of this trip the sun there as the temperatures were nice is slowly blurred, with the abundant sun we had. and in all the regions Eventhough it was just April. the voice of the water But not for the Italians who with its eternal disasters still thought it was chilly. But is dreaded and heard. they were happy they were here as Gabrielle told me that it was Translation by Paul Vincent Can you see it in front of your really bad weather in Italy this who in 2003 won the David eyes now? The wide river Waal same weekend. Via Andelst Reid Poetry Translation Prize slugging through the limitless and Zetten we cycled on for this magnificent translation low-lying land? The lines of towards Wageningen. But just that stands out for its implausibly gauzy poplars that before wageningen we had to naturalness and the unbroken stand like feathered plumes on cross the Nederrijn river or flow of its rhythm. Paul the horizon? The farmsteads Lower Rhine as it is called in Vincent's translation captures here and there scattered across english. This is the northern the mood of Marsman's poem, the land? The churches in the branch of the Rhine river and the deep affection for his distance? And everywhere we was once, during the middle country that is its hallmark. saw cattle like sheep (called ages, the main branch of the Pecore in Italian I learned) with Rhine. But not anymore as you In Italian: little lambs (Agnello in Italian), know now too. Here we took a cows (Mucca/Mucche) and

53 BIG Review 2011 small ferry to cross the river hairpins. The other one is the there are 2 photographers and this was very much Vijlenerbosweg in Limburg positioned who took pictures of appreciated by the Italians as that the Italians would take on us. this experience fitted the next day. The hairpins are seamlessly to the typical dutch also the reason that this road The photographers are friends countryside near the great has such an exotic name. The of Gerard who has asked them rivers. construction of this road was to be there that day. Great job! ordered by Baron van Brakell Especially for the Italians who From Wageningen we cycled who wanted to have a now get a professional picture on to Renkum to get to the foot connection from his castle of themselves on the of the 1st BIG of the day: (Doorwerth) to the trainstation Italiaanseweg. Great emotions! Italiaanseweg. I had alrady in Wolfheze. He called the road When they arrive at the top, the received a mail from Luigi that Italianroad as the first part with turn to the Dunolane to be in fact they were the first the hairpins reminded him of precise, one of the Giuseppe Italians to cycle the 3 northern the mountain roads in Italy. even went down on his knees BIGs of The netherlands; Great Another 200m of cycling take to thank Gerard for this perfect emotion! So in fact they are the us to the last hairpin and we day and the extras he has taken first Italian BIG members to only gained 5m. This part is not care of. Gerard's friends took cycle on the Italiaanse weg. steep at all and we Dutch have another picture there of the Funny, huh. seen the Italiaanseweg before whole group. and just race as fast as we can So at the foot of the on to the top. The Italians are Italiaanseweg they need to take right tough to take it easy to some pictures of course of the enjoy the scenery around the roadsign that says: only paved BIG that we have in From left to right you see: Italiaanseweg. (see next page) The Netherlands. The beech Bortolomeo Casolari, Alberto Then we take on the first trees and later on the Simoni and Giuseppe stretch under the beech trees is impressive Oak trees with their Masina, Roland Schuyer, Jip approximately 350m long and peculiar winding branches. I Coolen, Martin Kool, brings us 27m higher on to the am well ahead of the Italians Carmine Moccia, Myself, first hairpin. but cannot keep up with the "Oude" Gigi, Gerard van Did you say hairpin? Yes, I pace of the other Dutch like Jip Dongen, Gabriele Brunetti sure did! This is one of the two and Martin. On the part from and Ingmar de Weijer Dutch BIGs that actually have the last hairpin to the summit

54 BIG Review 2011

Then we cycled the last, flat part of the Italiaanseweg and again pictures were taken with all the Italians standing below the roadsign that says: Italiaanse weg.

Via Oosterbeek we cycled to the outskirts of Arnhem and the Schelmseweg to Velp. There we descended the Emma pyramid. This is a short (600m) descent (6.5%) to bring us to the entrance of the National Park: Hoge Veluwe. In this park the 2nd BIG of the day is located: The Posbank. We cycled to the summit of the of the BIG. It’s when you join to Steeg and then cycled to Posbank like we did on the one of the events you will Ellecom. We have to increase BIG day on the 21st of March. realise that the BIG offers so our pace to be in time for the I.e. all the way via the much more. It’s worth next ferry that we need to take. Beekhuizenseweg. This is an the effort to join these events as Ingmar and Martin are heading even more scenic BIG than the also Ingmar found out. It's so the group as Ingmar has the Italiaanseweg as it is located in good to meet other BIG route in his GPS. They do the National Park. The Posbank members from all over indeed keep a good speed of also runs through the forrest as Europe and share our passion around 35km/h. Roland and me you can see to the right and of uphill cycling. I realised that are cycling directly behind below (Gabriele & Gigi). this remark touched the heart of Ingmar and Martin and hence the matter and it's easy for us to keep this Here and there one can look have used it in a newsletter pace. Behind us are the 6 through the trees and see the even as an introduction to get Italians. They would have valley covered with purple other BIG members motivated preferred a slightly lower pace heather. Though it was too to join BIG events.After that but like this is also OK. We early as the heather was not yet we made some pictures of the cross the IJssel river just before blossoming. And so we arrived group standing next to a statue Doesburg. This IJssel is a at the bench of Pos. This is in of our Queen on a bicycle branch of the Lower Rhine and fact what Posbank means. The before we moved on. is the 3rd biggest Rhine branch stone bench in the form of a we have. When we have half circle is in fact a From the Posbank we crossed the IJssel we cycle via monument situated at a descended via the Diepesteeg Angerlo to Zevenaar and then viewpoint for mister G.A. Pos, former president of the ANWB (General Dutch Cylists Union). The viewpoint is on the edge of a ground moraine covered with heather. Next to the monument there is also a small restaurant where we sat down to drink cola (good for the sugar) and ate applepie. It was during this short break that Ingmar said: "It's amazing that there is so much more behind the BIG website". And I immediately understood what he meant. As long as you don't join events like the BIG day, BIG meetings/crossroads you will only see the webpage

55 BIG Review 2011 via a broad curve to Groessen The 3rd BIG of the day has But Gerard has to have the last to get to Pannerden for the last been taken. word. He has arranged that his ferry of the day. The last part, wife brought "Hagelslag" for after we have left Pannerden We wait for the team to re- the Italians. The Italians had takes us through the floodplain assemble again at the top and "Hagelslag" or Sprinkles as it's to the ferry. The ferry took us then cycle on to Berg en Dal called in english for breakfast. across the Bijland Canal. (Mountain and valley) where Sprinkles are very small pieces we turn right to take the chocolate used as a sandwich This canal was dug between Zevenheuvelenweg topping. I told you, he is the 1773 and 1776 to cut off a (Sevenhillsroad) back to perfect organiser. It is why his large bend in river Waal to Goesbeek. Where the Dutch blog is called Gastheer G (Host improve water regulation. (Martin Kool, Jip Coolen, G in English). Although it is called Canal they Roland Schuyer and me) smell http://gastheerg.blogspot.com/ are now an indistinguishable the stable so to say and start to part of the river and lost the race. The speed goes up like we And hence Martin Kool gave characteristics of the artificial did not cycle 3 BIGs nor him and Ingmar a BIG rugsack structure. It is currently by far 130km at all. When we arrive to thank them for the perfect the most important river-stretch we have to wait for the Italians day. I suspect that Gerard had of the Rhine even. Anyway, the and also for Gerard who had even organised that the weather ferry took us to Millingen aan spotted his wife and daughter was so nice for this day ;-) de Rijn (Lower Rhine that is) just before we reached the past Kekerdom to Erlecom and Liberation museum. They had And that's it! It was a pefect then via Ooij to Beek. We have brought something to drink and day indeed. A day with a arrived now at the foot of the that's typically Gerard. He has golden lining. Meeting dear 3rd BIG of the day: Oude arranged everything very well. BIG friends like Gabriele and Holleweg. This is by far the The photographers at the Gigi and meeting new BIG most toughest BIG out of the 3 Italiaanseweg, the route along members, cycle through the that were planned for this day. the great rivers, the ferries and beautiful Dutch river now the drinks too. The Italians landscapes, which I appreciate The ascent starts quite abruptly have brougth some gifts too. even more now and made me and goes from 0% to 7% and They brought a cycling shirt for proud of my country, and that means that one has to shift all of us and a cap. We put the gorgeous weather! What more gear in time as else one is clothes on of course so a can one ask for? parked at the spot. So we yell: picture could be taken. Gear! And then we take a 90 degree turn to the right and start the ascent. After the first 100m of 7% the gradient goes down for the next 200m to 4% on average before the road curves to the right and the true Oude Hollewg shows itself with 10.5% on average for the next 500m and a peak of 12%! This is hard labour I can assure you especially after the cycling we have already done. The last 200m the gradient goes down again to 4% and that's it.

56 BIG Review 2011

A call from Netherland ! The Modena group climbs all Holland BIG curiosity to discover the most to compare personal Gabriele BRUNETTI beautiful and famous climbs in experiences - except the their own country or abroad. monsters Eric Lucas, Etienne Thank you BIG!! After Valais Many do not see beyond Mayeur and Wim Van Els. in 2008, Algau-Tirol and racing, training, keeping fit on Liguria in 2009, the BIG has the usual roads, with own Our main objective of the given me in 2010 an amazing 4 group. meeting was to climb all 10 days in Holland and in Holland BIG in the weekend. Belgium. The event was In order to maximize the long conceived and brilliantly trip from Modena (slightly organised by Gerard Van more than 1000 km), we have Dongen. The Italian group was added to the program two tours coordinated by Luigi Candeli in Belgium Wallonia around who designed the tours in the weekend. In this way we Belgium. The other members reached the impressive number of the Modena group, were of 22 BIG, BIG with an Alberto Simoni, Carmine average of 5.5 per day. Moccia, Bortolo Casolari and It would be very difficult if not Gabriele Brunetti. With us impossible to climb a high Giuseppe Masina, a life in number of BIG in Italy in such amateur cycling with a short period. To think it well, responsibility in the local the greater difficulty in Italy is UDACE, which has generously compensated at the time of provided the van. Giuseppe travel in the countries of deserves our thanks for putting Northern Europe with a high up our oddities - we unloaded density of BIG with low height the bikes 4 times the first day For this reason we used to ride difference and not far away to make all planned BIG. A alone to achieve our aspired each other. As a result, thanks special thank to him especially goals and expand our own list to a short trip we were able to for being perfectly integrated of BIG. Doing a quick make a great jump in the into the spirit of BIG, a sport calculation on my list, I standings! challenge but first of all an climbed most BIGs –about 83 opportunity of meeting and (38%) in complete solitude, Gerard Van Dongen and friendship with cyclists of about 45 (20%) of my BIG Ingmar de Weijer organized the every European country. during a formal or informal meeting in their land taking gathering of BIG, 32 ( 15%) care of every detail. They We were lucky to have during granfondo races, and the rented a beautiful house in marvellous weather - 4 remaining 27% with occasional Broekhuizenvorst, a small beautiful sunny days (while in friends including top-60 BIG village on the banks of the Italy they had bad days of Luigi Capellani and the Meuse and have prepared an rain!) that have allowed us to journalist-cyclist Alberto excellent dinner Indonesian fully enjoy biking in the Dutch Ferraris. It would be interesting style. Martin Kool attended the landscape really unusual for us. The hills and forests of Wallonia have much in common with the Italian landscape of Northern Italy, although the green is dominant. We must admit that BIG members are unconventional cyclists. We love climbs, mountains, roads that climb steep hills, the sights, landscapes, places of great cycling classic. Not many cyclists have a passion or

57 BIG Review 2011 evening and cycled the next 2010. The strongest emotion of the day. It was great to talk about Very nice stop on Posbank day (after a brief transfer) was our passion, view photos, the where all the Italians wanted a to climb the Redoute, where book about l’Eroica, the photo next to the Queen cyclist. everything was ready (with vintage racing bike much It was followed by a delicious spectators along their beloved by Gerard and Ingmar. dinner at a restaurant along the campers!) for the passage of Deckers Helmuth, Roland Meuse LBL and two days after and Schuyer Jip Coolen On Sunday we moved in Mur de Huy, well famous for participated in the tour on Limburg for to a tour of 110 the final of Freccia Vallone. Saturday, in Gerderland, 140 km with BIG 7. We had the On the last day we did a tour of km. pleasure of having with us 92 km starting from Dutch landscape is magnificent Wim Van Els and Jean Luc Francorshamps, known for and will remain in our minds: Matt. It was a truly wonderful Formula 1 Grand Prix of large rivers, green pastures, ride through the streets of the Belgium. The area is very cycling roads, bridges and Amstel Gold Race. Very nice suitable for cycling. We underpasses to overcome the beginning on unsurfaced roads climbed 6 BIG. I have roads, the tulips in the flower around Valkemburg, whose remained in my heart Hezalles beds, on the tables of coffee streets are crowded with for its beauty and for its and restaurants. We drove 140 cyclists on Sunday. We will not impressive Stockeu hardness. km and climbed the Italiansee forget to stop at the BIG At the top there is a monument Weg, the Posbank el'Oude Drielandenpunt at the border dedicated to Eddy Merckx, my Holleweg. with Germany and Belgium. A favourite champion when I was With cycling, the risk of great emotion was the young. It would not make sense collision with the car is much terrifying final of the Amstel to go to that place with a lower than in Italy but perhaps with Eyserbos, Keutenberg different mean but my beloved because of speed my level of Cauberg. It has been exciting a bike! attention to avoid falls was flight between the curves of the much greater than on the Italian center of Valkenburg with roads. cafes crowded on Sunday We had the surprise of a photo afternoon. Despite the shoot over the bends of encouragement of the people at Italiaanse Weg made by two the tables of the cafe who saw professional photographers and my attempt to go away, many Gerard’s friends. A few months crossed the line of the Amstel later we received as a gift from before me. I will try next time! Gerard and Ingmar a beautiful On Friday (first day) we made photo book to commemorate a tour of 90 km starting from the event: Hollandse'S BIG DINEZ for a total of 4 BIG.

58 BIG Review 2011

Hungarian Day in The Netherlands (prologue) was quite OK and had a private and so the reservation changed bathroom. And the location of again! Helmuth DEKKERS the youth hostell was superb as it was located on the banks of In the mean time I had also Last year during the BIG the river Maas (Meuse in checked for Gábor where he meeting in Oberstdorf I met English). So in case the could go to church and where Gábor Kreicsi from Hungary weather would be OK they he could park the car as the and his friends: Gábor Vince could sit outside on the terrace church I located for him was in (nicknamed Somi) and István and enjoy the riverview. Hence Nijmegen and not in Ispán (nicknamed Strongman). I mailed the price and details to Groesbeek. Now who is the Nice guys who we cycled up Gábor and as they were Boss here? It's definitely Gábor the Hochtannbergpaß with in interested I booked a 4 person who is managing his the pouring rain. Hmm, was room for the 3 of them. They Belgium/Dutch trip for his this an Omen? Read on and would pay a little extra to have team ;-) you will see what I mean. It the room for just the 3 of them was nice to meet these guys but Gábor indicated that was I had asked my BIG cycling and Gábor kept referring to me OK for them. Deal! friend Roland Schuyer if he as Boss. Boss? I am not the was also interested in coming Boss of the BIG challenge? I Some time later I again got a along and I was happy when I indicated he was the Boss! The mail with a request to find out heard he would join us this day. Boss of the Hungarian team, as if there where any trains from My plan was to cycle the same he did all of the talking due to Maastricht to Belgium or vice route as we had done with the 6 the fact that Somi and versa and with the mail an Italians in April. I liked this Strongman do not speak ambitious cycling plan came route which takes you along the English. So he changed Boss along that explained the reason great rivers and through the into "Sir Captain" when he for this question. It seemed the typical Dutch river landscape. talked to me. A title that is yet Hungarian team did not only again not correct but that I wanted to cycle all BIGs in 12th of September. carry with pride as it is given to Limburg in one day but they The Hungarian BIG members me by Gábor: the Boss of the wanted to extend the trip so it must have had a beautiful day Hungarian team. At some stage would include some BIGs in on the 11th of September as the I received an email from him northern Belgium too. Hence sky was blue that day and the with the question if I could they would require a train to sun was shining. That's good help out to find get back at the end of their for them as that was the day accommodation for them in the cyling trip to Maastricht. So I where they had planned the Netherlands as they were used Google and found out that most of the BIGs (Col du planning to come over to cycle there was indeed a train that Stockeu, C&244;te de Wanne, the Dutch BIGs and some they could take from Pepinster Les H&e233;zalles, Col du Belgium ones too. I checked to Maastricht. With a few Rosier, Drielandenpunt, out if there were any youth emails back and forth I got the Vijlenerbos, Oude Huls, hostals that would fit their confirmation that the bikes Eyserbos, Gulpenerberg, needs as they "demanded" could be taken on the train and Keutenberg and Cauberg. 11 accommodation that looks nice I also knew the price so I could BIGs in one day! But this day and is not too expensive inform Gábor about that. was not so good. It was raining (similar to the quote from when I left Oisterwijk and it Monty Python's Holy Grail but Then again an email from was raining when I arrived in then it was a Shrubbery). And Gábor asking if they could Groesbeek. Does this sound law and behold there was a come with 4 persons. No familiar? Last time I cycled StayOkay Youth Hostell problem, I just sent an email to with the Hungarians it was located in Maastricht! So when the youth hostell and asked raining too! There must be a we were staying with our them to change the reservation spell that makes it rain when daughter Marloes, who lives in and to confirm this. And that we cycle together. A bad Omen Maastricht, we dropped by to was not the end of story as as I want to visit the see where it was located and if Gábor sent me a new email Hungarians one day in it was OK for the Hungarian asking if there would be room Hungary to cycle a few team. I was even allowed to see for 5 Hungarians even. I Hungarian BIGs together. It'll a room so I could see where my checked and asked for the probably rain when I am there. friends would stay. The room price. This was still possible Ah well, where did we go

59 BIG Review 2011 astray? Ah, Groesbeek. Yeah, I meeting in Oberstdorf last year. Beek we unloaded the minivan did not tell this in the prologue Then the Dutch cycling of the Hungarian team and but the plan had changed once magazine Fiets that had a small waited for the Hungarians who more and we would meet at the article on the BIG day that was were putting on rain clothing Liberation Museum in held last year on the 21st of like they were expecting a Groesbeek just like we did in March last year. And now I deluge (a large downpour of April with the Italians. So also had an Hungarian MTB rain that would flood us off our when I arrived at the Liberation magazine where Patricia and bikes). Rain jacket, rain pants, museum I stayed in my car and me are on the cover. Thanks rain covers for the shoes, the waited for the others to arrive. Boss for bringing that along! lot so to say. I just had a rain In the mean time I checked the Gábor had also brought me a jacket and rain covers for my GPS route that I had prepared cycling bottle of the Rabobank shoes. Roland even only had and that was based on the GPS cycling team as one of its the rain covers for his shoes. track that I had logged when former members had almost the Below you can see István and we were cycling with the 6 same surname like me: Erik me. Italians in April. To my Dekker. His surname only surprise and dismay I noticed misses the last s compared to that someting had gone wrong that of me. So Boss, what's the as the GPS route was in the plan now we have this rainy GPS but not the correct map. weather? Well, as they were a Blast! I should have checked bit late anyway and had this as now it is too late! No planned to move on to big problem as I know how to Germany in the afternoon we find the foot of the BIGs but decided to go BIG hunting. I.e. it's so much easier with the drive to the foot of a BIG, then map as the GPS could have cycle up, descend and move on route us to the towns that lie at to the next one. Not as nice as the foot. To cycle the route was cycling a trip like we did with out of the question anyway due the Italians but due to the to the fact that it was raining weather and lack of time it was you see. So for that I did not the best option we had. I found needed the GPS. While I was out that the Hungarian team When the Hungarians were checking the GPS Roland was late due to the fact that ready with putting on their rain arrived. We waited together in breakfast was served rather late clothing we could go. I am not his car for the Hungarian team at the StayOkay Youth Hostell going to describe the ascent of to arrive. We had agreed upon in Maastricht they were staying the Oude Holleweg as you can 09:30 but it was past 10:00 at. So it was not due to the fact find that description on the before they arrived. It was nice that Gábor first wanted to Italian Day page. As the Dutch to meet: attend a mass as he had done know the way they went up that the night before in first. Below you can see Somi Gábor Kreicsi (nicknamed Maastricht. OK, let's go BIG on his way up to the summit of Boss or his Bossness), hunting then! the Oude Holleweg. Gábor Vince (nicknamed Somi), I could travel together with the István Ispán (nicknamed Hungarian team in their bus. I Strongman) was allowed to sit in the front Aladár Puskas (nicknamed so I could help to guide Gábor Ali). (the driver as he is the Boss) to the foot of the 1st BIG of the His Bosness had brought me a day. It's the Oude Holleweg. Hungarian MTB magazine with And my bike was put in the I was well in time to be able to on the frontcover a picture of back seat where the other take some pictures of the the Hungarian team (Gábor Hungarian team members were Hungarians arriving at the Kreicsi, Gábor Vince and sitting as it did not fit into the summit. But due to the rainy István Ispán) with Patrica and luggage compartment anymore. weather and the trees it was me on the top of the Well, I did not have to guide quite dark there as you can see Hochtannbergpaß. Funny, first them at all really as Roland above and all the pictures I I had the Spanish cycling drove with his car in front of us took were blurred to the fact magazine Pedalier that I was in to Beek where the foot of the that the exposure time was so as part of the article on the BIG Oude Holleweg is located. In long. Pity! We took a picture of

60 BIG Review 2011 the whole group at the summit and with the Italians as the descended all the way back to below the streetsign stating heather was now really purple. the car. "Oude Holleweg" as Aladár was so smart to take a small Below you can see István in the tripod along. lead and then the Boss and Sir Captain (it's me) on the last part to the summit of the Posbanbk.

When we were back at the car I Then we followed the Oude suggested to take along the Kleefsebaan towards Nijmegen Emma Pyramid also. On the until we could turn left to BIG day and with the Italians descend via the Nieuwe we had only descended from Holleweg and the Van the Emma Pyramid but now I Randwijckweg back to car. Just When we arrived at the summit saw a chance to do the ascent 3.4km and that's all Folks! we took pictures at the bench also. Fortunately the of Mr. Pos. Hungarians agreed and so we On to the Posbank just some went up the 600m with on 32km away. His Bossness average 6.4% but with small neatly followed Roland and so parts of 12 and 14% even. we came to the foot of the When trying to cycle it up fast Emma Pyramide where he it's a handful I can assure you parked the Minivan and Roland and one is exhausted by the parked his car. From there we time the summit is reached. At cycled towards the summit of the summit we regrouped and the Posbank via the then turned tail to get back to Beekhuizenseweg. The first And we took a picture of the car so we could drive some 2.4km we cycled the same course at the statue of our 25km to get to the last BIG of stretch as we did on the BIG cycling queen (See Italian day this rainy day. This short day and also with the Italians. I for details). cycling trip added 15.1km so was cycling up together with we have in total cycled now Roland when we suddenly just 18.5km. heard Aladár behind us asking if we could slow down a bit as We drove to the top of the we had lost the rest of the team. Italiaanseweg in Doorwerth via OK, no problem of course as the A12 and A50 Motorways. we are cycling together. We Here you see the Boss of the just had not noticed it as we Hungarian team behind the were chatting. Then we turned wheel enroute to the Italiaanse right unlike the previous times weg. and descended via the Then we got going again and Snippendaalseweg to Rheden. cycled up. Up? Yes, I know it When we reached the sounds strange that we have Arnhemsestraatweg we turned just had the summit of the left to get to the Posbank and that we then leave Schietbergseweg which we the summit and cycle up to a took to get up to to the summit higher point. This is due to the of the Posbank. This is the fact that the summit of this BIG classic Southern ascent of the is located at the bench of Mr.

Posbank which is just 2.3km Pos and this is not the highest point in that area. The highest It was still wet, wet, wet. His long and 2.9% on average. Not Bossness parked the Minivan very difficult so one can enjoy point is the summit of the Zijpenberg which we pass on in the part of the Italiaanseweg the view on the heather which that lies on the other side of the was in fact better than when we our way back to the car. After the Zijpenberg the road W.A. Scholtenlaan and that is cycled here during the BIG day where Roland parked his car too. Then we followed the

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W.A. Scholtenlaan until we could turn left to descend via This small loop added again the Boersberg (Farmers hill) to 5.4km to our cycling and so we the Fonteinallee. The first part ended up with a grand total of of the Fonteinallee is a normal 23.9km of cycling. So, those road but where it bends to the were the last 3 Dutch BIGs for right the cycling path continues my Hungarian friends and the straight on along the Lower BIG bad Wolf has a full tummy

Rhine. Roland pointed out to too now. Time to get back to From left to right you see: me where the Castle of Groesbeek, 35km away, where Aladár (a.k.a. Ali), Gábor Doorwerth was located. It was the Hungarians will drop me (a.k.a. the Boss), István (a.k.a. the 1st time I saw the castle off and pick up Gyorgy Strongman) and Gábor (a.k.a. though I have been there 4 Domonkos who did not come Somi). times before. But now I have along this day as he had seen it! In fact one just has to already cycled these 3 BIGs "Thanks for a lot!" as the Boss follow the turn of the and had taken the time to visit would say or Kőszőnőm szépen Fonteinallee where we cycled his son who lives in Utrecht. in good Hungarian as I had on to the foot of the Italiaanse Back in Groesbeek I met learned this day. Szívesen! weg. At the foot we first had to Gyorgy Domonkos who was (You're welcome!), it was great cyle around a big rain pool waiting for the Boss and his to have met again. But now it's before we got to the paved Hungarian team mates to really time to say Goodbye. ascent. It's the most easy BIG arrive. Though the weather was Parting is such sweet sorrow as we have in The Netherlands as wet and cold Roland and I had Shakespear wrote long time it is just 1km long and only a warm feeling as it was really ago. Or, until we meet again 4.2% on average. But good to catch up again with under Hungarian rain ;-) For beautifully situated with the Gábor, Gábor, István, Aladár now I'll endure the Dutch rain hairpin turns beneath the Beach and to meet Gyorgyi! So I took on my own.... and Oak trees. Though the rain a picture of the Hungarian team makes it look less beautiful of in their Minivan. course as it is dark and dreary now. When we arrived at the roadsign of the Italiaanseweg we again posed for a group picture and Aladár's camera, the self timer on the camera and the tripod again did the trick as you can see.

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SeptemberRain some climbs. Our longest tour Gabor KREICSI was the „Hungarian Lowland Ali runned the risk of the Blue-tour”. We cycled 900 km- driving in night. The weather The club when I am cycling s over 10 days. was very bad. Much more rain. named Salgótarjáni HKE. This I heard the BIG challenge in In the morning we passed the was the first MTB club in the autum of 2005. In that year Hesselberg. It is so quiet Hungary, in 1991. This time we we were in Tirol and passed neighborhood. After I was the have more than 150 members. many climbs. We didn’t which driver, becouse Ali went back 10 members are in BIG were the BIGs. From 2006 the to sleep. Next climb was the challenge. The most important BIGs become to the target of Hohe Wurzel in Taunus- project of our club are the the long tours. mountain. It was a surprise MTB races. The first race was becouse of the traffic jam. The Hungarian National I met some new BIG members forest was nice but the smell Championship Salgótarján in in the Offical Meeting in was very bad becouse of many 1993. Oberstdorf for example cars went up and down. We I connected to this club in Helmuth Dekkers. We talked were very tired but we had one 1994. I have had few MTB the most about travelling to more climb yet. Last one was races but I liked better the Nederland. Helmuth managed the Petersberg in Seven- tours. In that year I managed our accomodation. He went (!) mountain. We climbed from first long tour in Hungarian to Maastricht and had a look at east side so we had have two Medium of Mountain. In next the Hostel Stayokey. Our team climbs becouse the first was the year (1995) I managed another will be bigger. First Ispán Margeretenhöhe. In the one. In 1998 was the first long István (Strongman), Gábor evening over 1400 km-s and tour on abroad. My brother and Vincze (Somi) and me were. three BIGs we arrived to the me cycled from Hungary to Later connected to us Aladár Maastricht. The Hostel and our Austria (Kaprun) during five Puskás (Ali) – who is new and room was very quiet, nice and days. The MTB World Cup very active BIG member – and comfortable. Thank you very was in Kaprun there. My György Domonkos (Gyuri) – much Helmuth! family likes Alpen. Some times who likes our tours. In we traveled together to Austria. September we started the next On the secund day we went to During this travels I cycled Salgótarjáni HKE long tour. Heuvelland. The landscape and the feeling were very good. The weather was overcast but without rain. I have never visited in Nederland, Belgium and France. It was a little funny that my first step to France was the climb to the Moint Noir. Another BIGs were Mont Cassel, Kemmelberg and Rodeberg. This day was very leisure day for us.

On the third day we met our BIG boss Daniel Gobert in Malmedy. The weather was very good, Sunshine! We cycled the around with Col du Stockeu, Cote de Wanne, Les Hézalles and Col du Rosier. Daniel told some story about there BIGs and showed the climbs point. I think it would be compliceted without Daniel. Thank you very much Daniel! After this circle we traveled to Vaals. We climbed seven dutch BIG sin row: Drielandenpunt,

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Vijlenerbos, Oude Huls, The National Park was very The rain was strong and it was Eyserbos, Gulpenerberg, nice. There were high trees and getting dark. When we arrived Keutenberg, Cauberg. We green neighborhood. We it was blackness and we had connected to Boogis marathon passed every climbs which only one lamp. racers. It was so funny. This is were near Posbank. Helmuth Last day we travelled all day. a record of our team, 11 BIGs and Roland were very strong. in one day. They were cycling 30 km/h up I think it was a great tour for and down. Our last climb was our for Salgótarjáni HKE. Ont he fourth day we left our Italiaanse Weg. We started this Hostel and traveled to Nord. BIG from the top, but we didn’t After this tour I reached 164 We met in Grosbeek with know this. After the circle we BIGs (BIG 5). I maked a little Helmuth Dekkers and Roland arrived the top near our bus and statistics. Schuyer. The rain was haevily we laughed. The weather was so we went with our bus and bad but we cycled and talked -BIGs where I passed there Rolands car to another three with two good members. Thank were people coud ski: 9 dutch BIGs. First was the Oude you very much Helmuth and -BIGs which I passed above 0 Holleweg. It was short and Roland! C0: 6 hard climb and dangerous In this day we travelled to -BIGs in rain: 19 downhill with slippery road. Niedernhausern and climbed at -BIGs passed in the field: 30 After we travelled to Arnhem. the and of Grosser Feldberg.

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20 BIG’s in 4 dagen 120) een van de favorieten van kwam ik bij de voet van de Roland SCHUYER Daniel. En, ondanks de Montagne de la Croix (BIG neerkletterende regen, kan ik 122). Een fotootje heb ik maar Beste vrienden, me dat goed voorstellen. Steile aan de voet geschoten want bij maar afwisselende klim. Deze de aanblik van die helling Helmuth ‘BIG bad Wolf’ ook maar even getimed en ik verwachtte ik niet boven nog in Dekkers noemt het: “Biggetjes kwam op 10’26” boven staat te zijn tot fotograferen. jacht”, Meindert Brugman (overigens hijgend als een Heftige klim waarbij de meter gebruikt vaker de stalpaard; wie gaat deze 25x op toch enkele malen boven de uitdrukkingen: “Varkens een dag doen? Veel geluk!). 24% kwam met zelfs een piekje slachten” of “Biggetjes Daarna de auto in Yvoir gezet van 28%. ophokken” en ze typeren ermee (en het zonnetje kwam door ;-) Elke klim moet een top hebben, hetgeen ik de afgelopen dagen en een tourtje gemaakt via maar deze top doet echt heb gedaan. Gayolle en de Montagne de la afbreuk aan de klim: na een Al langer had ik het plan om 2 Croix in Dinant. De voet van authentiek stukje Dinant te zijn vliegen in een klap te slaan: de Gayolle (BIG 121) miste ik doorkruist, kwam ik in een zone 3 completeren en het in de even, maar een kaartstudie nieuwbouwwijk die moest club fameuze aantal van 164 leerde me dat ik toch dat worden doorgefietst om, via BIG’s te halen. Met steun van onooglijke weggetje naar die vals plat, bij de uiteindelijke Yvonne kon ik eindelijk aan de fabriek had moeten hebben. De top te komen. Zonde; leg die slag om de plannen te klim begon heel braaf maar dat top maar op de kruising boven verwezenlijken. bleek schijn want nog niet aan de klim. halverwege werd het ouderwets Woensdag 18 augustus harken met gradiënten boven In de vroegte ben ik de 20% Een afdalende kerel in vertrokken. Het werd helaas bestelbusje verwachtte wat later omdat een defecte blijkbaar dat ik voor hem uit de koplamp moest worden weg zou gaan, maar helaas vervangen en bij zo’n klein voor hem. Uiteindelijk zette hij autootje als ik heb, betekent dit witheet zijn stuk blik in de dat je via een klepje in de berm. Aller beminnelijkst heb wielkast bij de lamphouder ik hem bedankt voor zijn goede kunt komen. Na wat gepruts daad. met de zaklantaarn was toch om iets na 6.00 u onderweg. Vanuit Evrehailles weer naar Het was droog weer Yvoir om vervolgens langs de tot…………ik in Huy Maas naar Dinant te tokkelen. aankwam. Het kwam met bakken uit de hemel en gedoe Dinant Vanuit Yvoir ben ik met de vanwege een opgebroken weg auto naar Fourneau St Michel en drukte door marktdag gereden en heb van daaruit de maakten het er niet Cheval de Bois (BIG 135) rooskleuriger op. Na de auto te gefietst. Onregelmatige klim, hebben geparkeerd ben ik veel houtafval en losse troep op afgedaald tot het begin van de de weg, maar het geheel werd Rue du Condroz (bij de opgeleukt door een groepje stoplichten) om vervolgens de wilde varkens die luid knorrend Mur van Huy (BIG 125) aan te en met staartjes omhoog het vallen. Mijn metertje gaf al hazenpad namen Ik heb nog snel wat extremere getracht deze ‘biggen’ op de hellingshoeken en de hartslag foto te zetten, maar het werd was duidelijk omgekeerd helaas zo’n soort foto die je evenredig van de snelheid. Het van UFO-waarnemingen kent. kostte me 6’53” om de fiets op Mijn hotel voor twee nachten de top te krijgen. had ik in Bouillon geboekt Zeiknat de auto in en op weg Tussen het shoppende publiek (Auberge de l’Alsace). De fiets naar Lustin. In mijn gedachten en geplaagd door mocht in de bezemkast staan. was de Triple Mur Monty (BIG eenrichtingsverkeersborden

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Donderdag 19 augustus. Na een goede maaltijd en dito nachtrust was ik donderdag als eerste aan het ontbijtbuffet. Na wat te hebben uitgebuikt ben ik via Bouillon (13%) naar de Col du Sati (BIG 124) gefietst. In de afdaling van de Sati heb ik de weg goed in me opgenomen en het constante bijremmen voorspelde weinig goeds. Aan de voet nog een plaatje geschoten van een mooi riviertje, toen voeten in de pedalen, timer aan en harken maar. Volgens mij metertje leverde ik op de 15 a16% stukken ca 320 Watt aan vermogen en dit alleen maar om niet om te vallen. Voorbij het kapelletje heb ik de timer Corbion (BIG 123) gefietst; Col du Loup (BIG 214). Rottig uitgezet en klokte 8’25”. Om heerlijk soepel lopende klim steil in het begin, maar daarna deze nieuw overwonnen BIG met alleen aan het eind 2x een toch wel een lekker pasje om te kracht bij te zetten, wilde ik stukje van 7%. Een knaap die fietsen. Natuurlijk een plaatje een man die ik in het kapelletje in mijn wiel was gekropen op de top met een grijnzend had gezien vragen om een moest op 2/3 loslaten en dat gezicht: “Hoppah, weer een aan plaatje te schieten. Echter, geeft altijd een extra boost. ‘t spit!”. De auto verkast naar nabij het kapelletje gekomen Afgedaald via de oude weg Revin en van daaruit de Mont besloot ik om beide heren maar naar Bouillon (die weg was een Tranet (BIG 213) geslacht. De niet lastig te vallen met mijn stuk steiler!), de fiets op de aanloop met de vraag in het; daarvoor hadden auto gezet en naar Frankrijk haarspeldbochten en zij het veel te druk ;-) vertrokken. vergezichten vond ik wel fraai, Via Bouillon de Col de eenmaal boven weer zo’n saaie Het eerste ‘slachtoffer’ werd de vals platte weg. Maar goed, het stuk hoorde er ook bij. Als laatste stond de Barrage de Ry de Rome op het menu van de dag. Het zou mijn BIGnr 160 zijn en ik heb m opgedragen aan Yvonne. Bij inzinkjes dacht ik telkens weer even voor wie ik deze klim deed en dan ging het weer. Op weg naar het hotel kreeg ik wat SMSjes van Helmuth en die vertaalde opzettelijk ‘lekker bezig ’maar eens letterlijk in ‘Tasty busy’. Die houden we erin!

Vrijdag 20 augustus Wederom was ik er als de kippen bij om het ontbijtbuffet leeg te roven. De eerste beklimming van de dag was de Mont Saint Walfroy (BIG 215). Lekker vroeg was ik aan de voet in Margut en bij het pompen van mijn voorband floot deze de ‘Marseillaise’. In de brandende zon met op de

66 BIG Review 2011 achtergrond een voorbij (BIG 148). Via de Gorges du Mocht niet baten, dus maar puffend treintje en onder het Loup omlaag en dan heerlijk doorgefietst. Op 3/5 van de toeziend oog van wat verveelde door het dal via Echternach klim was het plots over; mijn jeugd, heb ik de band naar Moersdorf. Heerlijk ketting knapte en lag op vervangen en ben gaan fietspad dus geen gejakker van straat.”Nee toch, ik ga toch niet peddelen. Op 1/3 van de klim auto’s en motoren. In sterven voor de deur!?” Mij stond een man in een rolstoel; Moersdorf was het over met het complete arsenaal aan hji spiedde de buurt af met zijn rustig peddelen en moest er scheldwoorden heb ik verrekijker. Er schoot zo’n weer worden geklommen. Via aangesproken, maar de ketting gedachte door mijn hoofd: Mompach naar de windmolens. werd er niet door gerepareerd. tjonge zouden zijn Ik vroeg me af of er een BIG- Gelukkig had ik daags voor kleinkinderen hem daar hebben sticker op een van die mijn vertrek een minitool neergezet? “Dag opa, we molenwieken was geplakt? gekocht bij Kleijberg in Diever. komen u om 6 uur weer Maar goed, de score stond op Henk Kleijberg (lidnr 2925) ophalen, have fun!” 163 BIG’s. adviseerde me een minitool van De afdaling naar Echternach Mérida en toonde de werking was er een van het snelle soort; ervan. Ik ben blij dat ik niet De aanvankelijk niet te heftige met dik 70 in ’t uur snelde ik eigenwijs ben geweest en het klim, kreeg letterlijk na de de stad in om na het ding heb gekocht; het kwam nu bocht een wending; 15%. Mijn verkeersgewoel naar de voet dik en dik van pas. De ketting enthousiasme van het eerste van de Gorges du Loup (BIG was in enkele minuten stuk moest ik wat bekopen om 145) te rijden. Wat een gerepareerd, maar het bovenste die ‘Steilhang’ naar de top verademing om eens een klim loopwieltje van de derailleur (uiteindelijk 10’48”). Eenmaal te hebben van 4 a 5% met een zat wat los. Gelukkig paste de boven vergeet je alles snel want max van 8%. In het hotel imbussleutel, maar ik kon het uitzicht was echt (Hotel Herber te Berdorf) nauwelijks een slag maken. adembenemend. Heb op het aangekomen had de eigenaar Veel korte slagjes dus. bankje zitten genieten en het al door: die lust wel een Natuurlijk viel er weer wat in natuurlijk plaatjes gemaakt. koud biertje. Correcte bingo en het gras…. trouwens wel 2 ook. Uiterst behoedzaam ben ik naar Mont Saint Walfroy met zicht Ook hier werd de fiets weer de Ferme Masseler gefietst en op Margut netjes gestald; in dit geval in de heb mijn 164e BIG gevierd met privé garage, zo een met een paar slokken sportdrank en afstandsbediening ;-) een vette mueslireep. In de auto teruggekeerd heb ik e.e.a. nog Zaterdag 21 augustus eens goed vastgezet en Von en Dit moest de dag worden: Helmuth ge-smst. Helmuth BIGnr 164 én zone 3 feliciteerde me met BIG 164, completeren. Tataaaaaaa. Von ook en die ga aan “Joh, De ‘gelukkige’ werd Ferme die ketting heeft je al over zo Masseler (BIG 143). Van veel bergen geholpen, die Mauro (Repetti) had ik een laatste paar houdt ie ook nog Maglia Rosa gekregen en zijn wel uit!” Kijk dat zijn allemaal kado had ik op 26 juli dingen die je soms even nodig Het was even rijden naar ontvangen enkele uren voordat hebt. Luxemburg, maar uiteindelijk ik hoorde dat mijn vader was kon ik parkeren nabij Mersch overleden. De Roze Trui en het BIG 164 Ferme Masseler en via Rollingen de Cote overlijden waren vanaf dat d’Houwald (BIG 147) fietsen. moment gekoppeld. De 25 Graden maar wel met een Masseler heb ik daarom ter lekker windje. Ook hier vond ere van mijn onlangs ik het begin het aardigst. overleden vader gefietst en in Eenmaal boven heb je mooie de trui die ik van een goede vergezichten maar is er qua vriend heb gekregen. klimmen weinig te beleven. Er zat een vreemd tikje in Na deze klim ben ik naar het mijn fiets; alleen bij het hotel in Berdorf gereden. trappen. Af en toe schoot de Ingecheckt en kamer ingericht ketting naar een ander om vervolgens op weg te gaan kransje dus heb ik de naar de Eoliennes de Pafebierg derailleur iets bijgesteld.

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Naar Clervaux gereden en de te zijn en we hadden bollen. Eenmaal in Cote de Munshausen (BIG gezamenlijke bekenden. Hij Imgenbroich was het over met 138) gaan rijden. Het leukste vroeg me om Helmuth van hem de pret; woonwijk, afvlakking, stuk zit in het begin; met veel te groeten en dat heb ik op de druk verkeer en zelfs een S-bochten klim je uit het top via sms gedaan. Klein afdaling van 8%. Over een centrum omhoog met als bizar wereldje. De teller was op 167 oude spoorovergang naar hoogtepunt een fraaie U-turn BIG’s totaal gekomen en op 49 Muetzenich waar het blijkbaar om de lokale begraafplaats stuks in zone 3. het zaterdagmiddag ritueel was heen; die kun je dus echt vanuit om gras te maaien. Brave alle standen bekijken. De De Ferme Libert (BIG 127 en huisvaders waren tuin aan tuin temperatuur was gestegen naar wat heb ik toch met om 17.00 u ’s middags hun 27 graden en het was lekker om boerderijen?) werd een waardig gazonnetjes aan het scheren. door het bos te fietsen. Boven sluitstuk van zone 3. Zowel Sport verbroedert; maaien ook? stond er een lekker windje en, Helmuth als Steven hadden me De top is gelijk de grens met last but not least, de ketting had gewaarschuwd voor de steile België en er was wat mij zich goed gehouden. klim. Dat bleek helemaal betreft geen enkele reden om correct: ik heb zelfs 23% daar langer te blijven hangen. Op naar Belgenland: Stockeu gemeten. Blijkbaar omdat ik De 169e BIG was binnen; 20 (BIG 133) en Wanne (BIG heel wat van die super steile BIG’s gefietst waarvan 19 132). In de brandende zon zijn jongens had gefietst, had ik wat nieuwe en 1 oude (Gorges du beide bedwongen. Ze vielen me routine gekregen en had al snel Loup). Met de 5 Duitse BIG’s eigenlijk nog wel mee. de cadans waarmee ik naar een week eerder kon ik weer in Op de Wanne kwam ik ‘een boven ben gereden. Zone 3 is de spiegel kijken; 24 nieuwe ridder te voet’ tegen. Het is veilig gesteld! gescoord ;-) nooit een positief gezicht als je Als toefje slagroom op het Fiets voor het laatste in een en collega fietser ziet lopen met toetje heb ik de Muetzenich vreemde garage en een kaduuk vehikel in de hand. (BIG 155) gedaan. Ik heb voor ondergetekende aan 2 halve Omdat ik nog vers in het de oostzijde gekozen omdat de liters bier plus een compleet geheugen had hoe het voelt om westkant een erg slecht wegdek varken (die als schnitzel op de technische problemen te had en het een bijna rechte weg menukaart stond) op ‘t bord; hebben, bood ik hem hulp aan. was. De oostzijde zou meer die had ik verdiend (vond ik Hij sloeg het vriendelijk af bochtjes hebben en Duits asfalt, zelf). want er was een speciaal soort plus het startpunt lag dichterbij Zondagmorgen ben ik weer spaak kapot en vrienden waren mijn hotel te Monschau- naar huis gereden (330 km) en al doorgereden naar een Höffen. Ja, ja, maar vanuit resteerden alleen de hulppost. Na een kort gesprek Hammen is dat ding dus ernstig herinneringen en het verbrande ben ik doorgefietst. Krap 10 steil; 2 kilometer a 15% (okee hoofd. meter verder hoorde ik achter het schommelde tussen de 10 me: “Hee, Challenge BIG, daar en 15%). Wel mooi door het Seeya, doe ik ook aan mee!” smalle en bosrijke dal van de Roland Omgekeerd en weer verder Rur, maar niet even 1-2-3 voor gepraat; het bleek Steven Feys het avondeten naar boven One BIG, one beer!

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Rosier : Iron Big malgré lui à son insu couper et obligation d’être en Eh oui, je resterai toujours un D. JACQUEMIN forme au jour Big. speelziek comme dit affectueusement mon papa. 2 janvier 2011, 12H21 Bref…. Je me retrouve devant une page blanche. Mes sentiments C’est donc afin de maintenir un balancent entre terreur du vide semblant de forme s’éloignant et excitation de le combler. un tant soit peu à la sphère Je m’étais pourtant promis que parfaite que le samedi 23 je n’écrirais plus pour la revue. janvier 2010 Trop de mes articles y furent j’escalade en compagnie de massacrés par le passé et cela mon épouse, par deux fois le avait eu le don de titiller mon Rosier. égo au point de me faire 23 ascensions qui nous restent renoncer à tout jamais aux Le pied de l’ascension versant à faire. belles lettres. est, se situe non loin du Difficultés majeures hameau de Roanne où mon * Deux week-ends grillés pour Certains me disent à quoi bon paternel a jeté l’ancre il y a cause d’enneigement excessif. écrire, car à part l’auteur quel plus de 25 ans déjà. *Certaines ascensions est le quidam sensible à cette aveugles, faites le soleil prose cyclo où les kilomètres Quelques jours avant ce bol couché. avalées ne sont interrompues d’air hivernal, j’avais pris *Températures négatives gelant que par l’éternelle crevaison, connaissance du projet les extrémités de son corps coup de tonnerre censé relancer foldingue conçu par notre * battantes ou chuchotantes le suspense du récit. président jamais à cours pluies vous détrempant Quedal et peau de fesse j’en d’idées loufoques, à savoir le jusqu’aux os conviens. BiG de fer ou d’enfer je ne sais * descentes patinoires pour trop au juste. cause de verglas. Pourtant je ne puis m’empêcher de coucher sur papier ma petite Je m’étais bien juré que me Enfin arrive le dimanche 21 rédaction. Et cela sans aucune faire participer à une telle février, dernier jour pour contrainte contrairement à mes gaminerie relevait du doux clôturer notre quête en fer. élèves obligés par leur maître rêve. Miracle, des cols , à composer le 1er L’époque des culottes courtes La dernière ascension sera la septembre de chaque année la en quête de récompenses, plus blanche, la plus pure, rédaction de leur vie qui a pour médailles où titres me semblait puisque la nuit traitresse a intitulé original s’il se peut : « pour un quinqa bien tapé à couvert le pays d’un blanc Mes vacances ». jamais révolue. manteau. Rien de nouveau depuis Jules Ferry. Pourtant au fil des kilomètres Mais en ce 2 janvier le sujet de ce 23 janvier, l’esprit potache la rédac : Baptême de l’enfant se réveillait en moi : Rosier. Et si…………. Ce serait un entraiment…………….. J’aurais l’occasion de voir maman…… On ne va pas laisser un Hollandais…. c’est ma côte………. Bref arrivé en haut, alea jacta

Année 2010, le BiG fête ses 25 est : je me plonge dans l’Iron 14h32 mirage. ans. Aventure. Au programme des festivités, le Ma page blanche s’est noircie BIG Day. Enfin après palabres, nous nous par enchantement. Pas de pot, je l’organise lançons…. conjointement avec Daniel notre Président.. Pas moyen d’y

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De West-Vlaamse heuvels. (BIG 111 + 112 + 212)

Willem VODDE

Wie bij België aan klimmen en dalen denkt, denkt bijna automatisch aan de Ardennen. Toch is er meer dan dat uitgestrekte gebied tussen Luik en Boullion, dat aan de Franse kant nog even doorgaat. De tweede link met klimmen bevindt zich in Vlaanderen; de kasseienheuvels van het Oost- Vlaamse land, bekend van de wielerklassiekers als Ronde van Vlaanderen en de Omloop van het Volk. Maar als men `s Avonds om 20:00 uur “the me gaan opmaken voor de nog dieper (zuidwestelijk) in last post” geblazen ter beklimming van de het Vlaamse landschap duikt, herinnering aan al die Kemmelberg. Ik neem hem kom je opnieuw een golvend zinloosheid. Samen fietsten we vanuit het Zuidwesten, niet de landschap tegen, dat zo enkele themaroutes, een met zwaarste kant maar de ongeveer begint achter de stad verwijzingen naar die oorlog en verschillen met de andere Ieper. De heuvels in dit gebied een met Vlaamse verhalen die zijden van deze berg zijn klein. worden, naar hun oorsprong wij via een soort praatpalen In de aanloop kom je dan eerst “Getuigenheuvels “ genoemd. onderweg konden beluisteren. over de Monteberg (131 m.) Omdat zij de overgebleven In mijn uppie ging ik er op uit die dus eigenlijk tegen de getuigen zijn van een om de West-Vlaamse Kemmelberg aan ligt. Hier is landschap dat er heel ver terug heuvelroute te fietsen met de weg nog heerlijk bekleed zo uitgezien moet hebben. De onvermijdelijk enkele met asfalt, maar als je eenmaal bekendste is wel de beklimmingen uit de lijst van linksaf slaat naar de Kemmelberg, maar wie zich 1000 (BIG`s). Vanuit Ieper Kemmelbergerweg kom je op goed oriënteert vindt er zo een fietste ik richting Voormezele het gevreesde stuk kaseien dozijn meer. Variërend van 50 alwaar ik de bewegwijzerde waar het steilste stuk van 23 % tot 161 meter boven de route oppikte. Als de route van is. Met mijn “Storm” zeespiegel. Voor de doorgaande weg afgaat, mountainbike kom ik doorgewinterde klimmers stelt begint het geleidelijk al wat te makkelijk boven (156 meter het weinig voor; maar heuvelen. Langs het hoog); genoeg versnellingen! toch…….. een fietstocht met Provinciaal domein een aantal van deze, soms toch “Palingbeek” oefen ik op al Even voorbij het monument ter aardig steile (stukjes van boven die kleine weggetjes steeds nagedachtenis aan de de 20%), hellingen kan een meer in het klimmen en dalen oorlogsslachtoffers, neem ik mens toch aardig uitputten. tegen een flinke wind in. Met tijd voor een koffiepauze in een Wij (Hetty en schrijver dezes) hier en daar prachtige rustig café restaurant. Daarna waren er tijdens de paasdagen uitzichten over het, nog vrij ga ik dezelfde weg weer terug 2010. We sliepen in “het kale, landschap. De lente is en daal al benenschuddend de Poorthuis” , een monumentale nog niet echt begonnen dus er kasseienstrook af om weer via logeerplek in het hart van de komt slechts voorzichtig wat de zoet geplaveide asfaltweg de historische stad Ieper en dat blad aan de bomen en de Monteberg af te dalen. Bij de bleek een uitstekende landerijen zijn pas splitsing neem ik de weg naar uitvalsbasis voor meerdere omgeploegd. Na het dorp Loker en zit weer op de fietstochten. Het hele gebied Nieuwkerke beklim ik de eerste bewegwijzerde route. rond Ieper is bekend van de 1e echte West-Vlaamse helling, In Loker volgt een prachtig WO; waar tussen 1914 en 1918 genaamd “de Walletjes” en smal weggetje (Gildestraat) meer dan een miljoen soldaten, reik ik tot een hoogte van 80 omhoog naar de Baneberg (143 vooral in de loopgraven, het meter. Daarna volgt de Zwarte m). Een kort maar venijnig leven verloren. Nog iedere dag Molen van ongeveer hetzelfde klimmetje; aan het eind kom je wordt hier bij de Menenpoort kaliber en bij Dranouter kan ik op de weg naar de top van de

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Zwarte Berg (152 m) uit. Deze ik even de weg kwijt. Na een je op een weggetje naar de weg vormt de verbinding oriëtatie op de routekaart weet Letteberg (95 m). tussen de Rode en de Zwarte ik dat ik ergens van de grotere Via de bordjes kom ik nu weer Berg en is een toeristische doorgaande weg linksaf moet terug in Kemmel en besluit dat trekpleister omdat de Zwarte naar de Hellegatstraat. Al snel het genoeg geweest is; de Berg precies op de grens met bemerk ik dan dat ik alweer op meeste West Vlaamse bergen Frankrijk ligt. Veel Outlet een andere, veel mooiere heb ik nu onder de wielen door winkels met tassen en kleding beklimming van de Rode Berg laten gaan. Met de wind in de en drank en sigaretten kun je zit. Ik blijf de West Vlaamse rug fiets ik langs de dorpen de hier kopen alsof het niets kost. bergen route volgen zonder Klijte en Dikkebus weer terug Op de top daal ik Frankrijk spijt want ik kom opnieuw op naar Ieper naar mijn binnen, na een paar kilometer smalle landelijke, klimmende echtgenote, die ergens op een keer ik weer om en beklim nu en dalende wegen met terras met een kop koffie op me de “Mont Noir” van de andere prachtige uitzichten. Dan blijk zit te wachten. Later in de kant. Dan daal ik de weg af om ik vlak bij de Scherpeberg (125 week zou ik via een route door in het verlengde daarvan de m.) te zitten. Voor het Frans Vlaanderen de rest van Rode Berg (136 m) op te bereiken van de top had ik deze getuigenheuvels klimmen. Met z`n bijna twee eigenlijk even linksaf moeten beklimmen. kilometer lengte waarvan een slaan, maar ik begon net weer aardig stukje (het lijkt altijd aan een mooie afdaling. Ik zet langer) 13 % stijgt, begint dit al nu koers richting Kemmel, ook op een echte klim te lijken. Als daar is de weg een stuk ik afgedaald ben richting opgebroken maar met halve Westouter kan ik de verleiding terreinbanden is dat niet z`n niet weerstaan om hem ook nog bezwaar. Grappig is wel dat de even van de westzijde te route hier nog een extra beklimmen met een stukje van ommetje maakt richting 16% nog weer ietsje steiler. Kemmelberg; echter vlak In het plaatsje Westouter ligt voordat je de kasseienweg het plaveisel overhoop en raak opgaat, sla je rechtsaf en kom

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CRAZY TRAVEL TO GROßER INSELSBERG & WAßERKUPPE horizon and nothing very the pass, 100 meters further, I Daniel GOBERT special but has a fantastic top. saw a sign with a direction to You can stay there (hostel, bar, the Ball. Lucky ! But not so Here is a small report of my restaurant) on the top for the much : the gravelled section one-day trip to Central lightly ball on the real top, happened, with stones Germany in november. some walks in the forest, a ski becoming larger and larger and area in winter, the visit of an the track narrower and I just came back from a "one aeroplane museum and narrower with a final slope day crazy travel" like I love so airport,... Great place ! with 20% on horrible stones. much. Thursday, the 4th of Out of breath, I succeeded in november, I woke up at 5AM, I reached the final ball (947m) staying on the bike, stopped on drove 500km with my car to from the pass (917m) on a the top and looked around me. arrive near Eisenbach in wrong way (I'm sure that some The ball was just there, very Germany at 11AM. of you will laugh knowing that near, my Garmin 705 computer I climbed Großer Inselsberg (nr gravel sections are often showed 947m, and just 5m 179) and Wasserkuppe (nr 180) borrying me). Arriving at the aside, just parallel to my = 1000m (2x500m) difference entrance of the field for the gravelled section, a... splendid of level, 40km bike (2 times planes, a sign seems to forbide tarmac. Asking the trekkers on 10km up and 10km down) with the visit but the door was the top, thay told me "no 100km car between them and a opened. I hesitated to go on. I problems, you can ride on this small visit in a village just spoke with two girls way". remaining the iron Wall at this trekking in the area and place. fetching just like me the white I went down and came back ball precising the real top. We on... the entrance of the field didn't know where it was really for planes on a fantastic located (smog having covered a surfaced road. I hate myself little the top's area). I came (with an "h", Helmuth and back near the hostel, went just Roland !!!). No LOL aside during 500 meters on a authorized, guys ! gravelled but good section with Note ; in the Google Earth's my road bike, and arrived at the image, from the bold vertical same altitude on the ski area line to the white ball on the with chair-lifts and so on. It left, look at the simple straight was not there. Shit ! Back and way, and in bold all my then, going to the other side of unuseful visit... And finally, at 5 PM back to Namur with another block of 500km with the car (fortunately on motorways). Completely tired when coming back. But I was very surprised and happy by the amazing beauty of the two climbs. Großer Inselberg had a good slopy beginning with large hairpins, and a final 2km long cobbled section in forest. In autumn, it was a kind of magic. Really ! With a small rain and a heavy wind (70km/h) giving a very special feeling on the cobbles not so often met. Wasserkuppe was a large road in an open area during the windy climb with a large

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Nebelhorn 16 May 2010 This was in fact irresponsible – Rob BOSDIJK After a kilometre I reached a nobody in sight and no bridge with a view of a telephone with me (actually I I have read a lot about this building on the left. When I never carry a mobile phone tremendous mountain which arrived there, to my surprise, with me when cycling). challenged to me to set off on the building turned out to be Everything went through my this adventure. the same restaurant with the mind. Should I stop and go cable-lift station in front of it. back? Suppose that I slip and At the start, in front of the ski This was quite a fall down and break an arm or a jump in Oberstdorf, it was disappointment. Nevertheless leg. Nobody would find me drizzling. A large group of one thing was certain: then. However I had said to my people was waiting in the car somewhere here there must be wife and my daughter, who park. I thought to myself, a way that actually only goes to lives in Garmisch- “These people haven’t come the top. Partenkirchen, that I was going for me, have they?” It turned to climb the Nebelhorn. out that they were going on a tour of the piste. In the end that gave me a feeling of security and I Feeling quite nervous I began continued on the road to the the climb and after a kilometre top. There was a small level I found out that I hadn’t taken piece of road and suddenly on anything to drink with me. this misty road I saw a Luckily I had brought a currant chamois. I got off my bike and bun. The first kilometres were On the far right I saw a piece of as a great lover of animals (I fairly steep however the asphalt reasonably level unpaved track. have two dogs myself) I stood road was fine to cycle on. After Very quickly it went up again still watching it and had the three or four kilometres there so this was the right direction. feeling that indeed I was not was a sign for the Nebelhorn. In the meantime it had become alone here. From this I drew The asphalt road went down a colder and had begun to snow courage to continue again. little so I decided to follow the lightly. Moreover after the sign. I was at the height that the winter sport season there were Meanwhile it had begun to asphalt road turned into a dirt many loose stones on the road snow harder and I became road but this road was certainly which made cycling with these anxious whether or not I would not for cycling. tremendous gradient still be able to find the way percentages very difficult. back. I always kept the chair I had second thoughts but still lift in sight. I reached the tree went up. Cycling was hardly The advantage of this climb is line so I then had about 200 possible; I couldn’t do anything that in spite of the cold you meters higher to go. Suddenly I but walk. Finally, in the sweat a great deal. And that saw a building in the distance. distance, I saw a restaurant and means that you have to drink a That must be the top. On a cable-lift station. I looked to lot. Yes, but what do you do arrival it turned out to be a big see where the road went to but without bidons? Then you have barn – what a disappointment! I didn’t see a connection. There fresh snow; you make a virtue It couldn’t be a barn of course, wasn’t a living soul to be seen of necessity. because the chair lift didn’t go who could give me directions. up higher either. However at The scenery became more such a moment you don’t think Then there was only one thing forbidding and after consuming of that. left to do - go back to the my currant bun with the asphalt road. necessary fresh snow the The descent to this road was far disaster continued. I orientated from easy with all the large myself by means of the chair loose stones on the way. As lift. On the road there were said before the asphalt road meter high snowdrifts. To went down a bit but after a follow the road I could only curve it went up again steeply. walk on the side of it on parts “Thank goodness,” I thought, that were not wider than forty “again the right direction after centimetres. Cycling was not possible all.” anymore. The last kilometre

73 BIG Review 2011 was only just wading through was listed with a wide lead nature, good weather and not the snow. with 73 Bigs. all too difficult climbs.

What I first saw in the distance Martin went further with I could make up the difference was the cable-lift station which measured strides and I could with these climbs but it is the end point. Just a moment not keep up with him. With remained suspenseful up until later I was in front of the little steps I tried to follow him the end. Without warning Edmund-Probst-Haus. I did it! but the distance remained too Martin could still deliver a great. I was pleased with a blow. However this did not second or a third place (fellow- happen. countryman Wim van Els was After this, which was for me a also progressing along). really heavy season, I’m going to take it a bit easier in 2011. However in the Big News from Although in the beginning of the end of September I read an January I am going to run the interview with Martin Taylor Egmond Half Marathon, then at

Now I still had to reach the as the leader of the Big list of the beginning of June I am bottom in one piece. rankings 2010. In this interview taking part in the Big Tour on Fortunately I could still find Martin indicated that after all Corsica and at the beginning of tracks in the snow from my his trips he would stop and that July I am running in the ascent. With all the stones on later he would climb two more Extreme Mountain the road the descent was very Bigs in Cyprus. He race (Zugzpitze risky. It was only possible nevertheless did think about Extremberglauf) in when I braked fully. Now and whether he would remain in Garmisch/Ehrwald, an 18- then I tried to let the brakes go first place. A certain Rob kilometre race up to an altitude a bit but the descent was really Bosdijk from the Netherlands of 1899 metres. frightening going so fast on might well be able to gain on such a road. I’m good at him because he (Rob) had more * Garmisch Partenkirchen descending but this was free time than he did. Martin Germany different matter. I thanked God said, “It was a race between the on bended knees when the level tortoise and the hare". This part with the cable-lift station gave me the came into view. From then on I motivation went like a rocket to the bottom again to try for on the asphalt road. first place. In the meantime it In my car I said to myself, "If I was already the had known this beforehand I beginning of would have never begun.” October so the However when I look back it days were gives me a kick that I reached becoming the top under those severe shorter and the conditions. weather conditions After I wrote this story about worse. my climb up the Nebelhorn on 31 December I saw in Big * There were News that I had claimed the still possibilities most Bigs in 2010. in the neighbourhood At the beginning of February I of Garmisch * began with the small mountains where my and every day I closely daughter lives followed the list of rankings as well as and and adjusted (my climbs) with on the islands equivalent climbs. It went well of Mallorca and until in June when, in one fell Sicily. On these swoop, the Englishman Martin islands there is Taylor suddenly claimed 80 fantastically Bigs while at that moment I beautiful

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Le mur de la Mûre Après la forêt où un mur sommet; attendre l'ouverture du Daniel GOBERT d'arbres me coupe la vue à ciel, c'est l'essentiel. L'absence perte de vue, une clairière où il de mur final est un régal. Je J'avais souvent raté Serre- faisait plus clair hier conserve l'enlaçai dans un lacet. Je ne Mûre vaquant trop en la pente que j'arpente et mène fus pas minus au terminus. vacances. J'avais rasé les murs au beau hameau de Passevite de Serre-Mûre mais, pas assez qu'un nouveau mur habite. Et quelle ne fut pas ma surprise mûr sans doute, pas assez sûr en tombant dans le panneau du de la route, j'avais joué serré. Passe vite! Mais je fais ce que panneau. Pas de col de Serre- Trop peureux d'aller droit dans je peux! Mûre, mais un col de la Mûre ! le mur et trop heureux d'être à Le col de la Mûre m'avait servi trop d'encablures, certain de ne Heureusement, il n'y a que ses murs et ôté ses serres. pas y léviter, je n'avais pas deux maisons à l'horizon, une à Biche ma biche, beau cervidé, évité de l'éviter. gauche, une à droite, une où est ton cerf vidé? Le Serre moche et une étroite. De fait, n'avais pas fait son effet et je Bref, je n'y étais point allé. c'est fait, je suis passé vite à souffris de l'effet de Serre ! A Passevite, bien que lent sans quoi ça sert de faire Serre-Mûre Aujourd'hui, venant de Namur, élan. Vu la pente, vu le mur, vu sans Serre si on ne vous sert bien sûr, via l'Ardèche bien mon allant, vu mon allure! que des murs ? sèche, j'allais tenter serré, j'allais tenter Serre-Mûre. Pas régulier le mur, très Pas trop dans la dèche, je régulier le dur ! Une myriade rentrai en Ardèche; et heureux J'eus cru un bon crû de de mini murs vers Serre-Mûre. d'avoir fait na aux murs, je montagne moyenne, j'eus cru Dix pur-sangs à dix pour-cent ! revins à Namur. Le col de une bonne côte des Fagnes ou Dix murs faits par deux fémurs Serre-Mûre m'avait nourri; le des Ardennes. Un truc qu'on ne ! Des beaux murs faits en col de la Mûre m'avait mûri. vainc pas en vain depuis Saint- bromures! Des murs d'art faits Laurent-du-Pape pris en sans armures ! Mon dos à soupape. Serre-Mûre était un courbure lovée en a assez de Saumur, un col neuf qui épate, mon vélo dorure en acier ! Face un château neuf qui appâte, un à ce profil aiguisé en aiguilles château neuf du pape. J'eus cru acérées, mon Orbéa en sort une pente douce où un ardent béat. pousse. J'eus cru un Serre- Mûre doux au désert mou. Avant d'être assommé, être au

Mais pas du tout, j'eus un tas de poux. Serre-Mûre m'offrit des murs. Très mûrs, sans mûres assez à ramasser. Dès Saint- Laurent quitté, sur la D42 et sur mon 42, la rivière de la Crotte en bas m'en met plein les bottes dans mes ébats. Vite se débarrasser de celle-ci par derrière, se délester de la Crotte à l'envers, car de suite le murmure des murs mène à Serre- Mûre.

Serre-Mûre me sert un mur, deux murs, trois murs, entrecoupés de passe-murailles et de failles où je défaille.

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Un BIG historique plus qu’à Bibracte je n’ai pu François CANDAU Il faut en profiter pour visiter repérer précisément le raidar : le village et suivre les fouilles sur le Mont Beuvray je ne l’ai Qui a dit « les Gaulois sont archéologiques en cours. pas senti, ici j’avais dans la plaine ? ». Dans le l’impression qu’il était présent Morvan (Bourgogne) les Encore un effort avec un petit dans chacun des murs Gaulois se sont placés au plus mur dans cette magnifique successifs. haut. Sans le savoir, ils ont forêt protégée (avec paraît-il un annexé un BIG pour construire passage à 20% mais qu’on ne Arrivé à ce panneau leur capitale : Bibracte. En sent pas) et on arrive au directionnel, la pente est plus effet au II et Ier siècle avant Chaume du Beuvray, sommet régulière. Elle nous conduit au J.C., l’un des peuples les plus de l’ascension à 821 mètres. sommet coiffé d’une puissants de la Gaule, les Pour moi, pas de vue installation intrigante (aviation Eduens, avaient édifié leur panoramique ce matin-là, on civile). capitale entourée de remparts jouait « Gaulois dans la brume Une petite descente vous sur le Mont Beuvray (BIG ! ». conduit aux rochers des 227). La descente est à la fois étroite cascades pourvus d’une table C’est ici que Vercingétorix fut et magnifique dans cette forêt d’orientation avec un vaste proclamé chef de la coalition du Parc naturel régional du panorama qui inclut le Mont gauloise en 52 avant J.C. C’est Morvan. Beuvray (dégagé de ses brumes également à Bibracte que Jules entre-temps). César acheva, après sa victoire Le BIG le plus proche n’est à Alésia, la rédaction de la « qu’à 30 kilomètres, c’est le An historical BIG : Guerre des Gaules ». Signal d’Uchon (BIG 229). Moins élevé que le précédent, A traditional French song says: il ne faisait pas pour moi figure “The Gauls are on the plain”. d’épouvantail. Et pourtant, il In the Morvan region m’a laissé un rude souvenir. Il (Burgundy) the Gauls were faut dire que j’ai réalisé ces 2 uphill. They didn’t know they BIGs sur le trajet d’un rayon were building their capital d’or Rouen-Lyon et que j’étais Bibracte on a BIG. Indeed in donc lourdement chargé pour the IInd and Ist century B.C., être en autonomie. C’est one of the most powerful pourquoi cette ascension en people of Gaul, the Eduens, escalier m’a semblé bien plus built their capital surrounded éprouvante que la précédente. with ramparts on Mont Il y a du 18% annoncé en Beuvray (BIG 227). descente puis en montée. Pas

La montée vers le site est agréable et régulière. On atteint le musée situé au pied de la ville antique. Il présente la civilisation celtique en Europe, la vie au village de Bibracte et des expositions temporaires (lors de mon passage : Bibracte-Katmandou).

Dès le musée, vous devrez enchaîner une série de virages bien raides pendant un kilomètre. Les remparts du Porte de Rebout vous donnent l’accès à un dénivelé plus tranquille.

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In this place Vercingetorix was nominated chief of the Gallic coalition in 52 B.C. Also in Bibracte Julius Caesar finished, after his victory in Alésia, the writing of «Gallic War ».

The ascent to the site is regular. There is a museum at the enter of the antic town. It presents Celt civilization in Europe, life inside Bibracte village and temporary exhibitions (about Bibracte-Katmandou when I was there). Natural Park. precisely the stiffest passage: on Mont Beuvray I didn’t feel After the museum, you will The nearest BIG is only 30 it, here I felt it was in every have to climb very stiff pins kilometres from here. It is successive slopes. during one kilometre. Porte de Signal d’Uchon (BIG 229). Rebout ramparts give access to After you reach this road-sign, a quieter difference of altitude. the slope turns regular. It leads to the top where an astonishing You should take benefit of it to installation lies (civil aviation). visit the village and watch the pending archaeological A short downhill leads us to Lower than the former one, it excavations. rocks of cascades where a didn’t seem a bogey to me. viewpoint indicator shows a However, it left me a hard Still an effort in a stiff slope in large panorama including Mont recollection. I have to say that I this magnificent protected Beuvray. forest (with a 20% passage but climbed these 2 BIGs on the difficult to identify) and you road of a Rouen to Lyon trip reach Chaume du Beuvray, top and that I was thus heavily of the ascent at 821 metres. For loaded so as to be autonomous. me, no panoramic view on this That is why this staircase type morning, it was « Gauls in ascent seemed to me much haze! ». more difficult that the former one. An 18% is announced The downhill is narrow and downhill then uphill. Here too I nice in this forest of Morvan found it hard to identify

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Les Ascensions de la Pentecôte dortoir de la première heure, en Holà ! Aurais-je un souci à ce J. BRUFFAERTS qui j’ai reconnu un petit air de stade de la narration ? Dois-je Thijl Uilenspiegel des Temps vous décrire rigoureusement, Fichtre ! Par quel sujet vais-je Modernes. Mais comme l’air pas à pas, le cheminement vers commencer ? Une fois de plus, ne fait pas toujours la chanson, le sommet ou m’abîmer dans j’ai fait un plein carton de qu’il me pardonne si je une digression épique ? Je bafouilles. Des brimborions. détonne. Bof ! Après tout, vous concède qu’une Des petits riens qui ont le comme ça rime avec déconne, description n’a rien de privilège de métamorphoser ça ne fait de tort à personne ! palpitant. Quant à une une simple passion en une quelconque élucubration, elle philosophie, en un art de vie. Grâce à mon anticonformisme risque un débordement allant Un os à moelle à ronger,aussi ! récurent, j’ai découvert le jusqu’au chiantisme. Alors ! mémorial du Mont Mouchet, Que faire milord ! Aussi en bon épicurien me niché sur une hauteur des Réponse d’une bonne pâte suis-je, d’emblée, attaqué aux Monts de la Margeride, par la belge : un peu de tout, chef ! Cornes d’Honoré. Oh ! Hé ! A vallée de La Desges qui m’a Du moment que ce soit reader’s celles d’Urfé de la Loire, et promené dans un univers où le digest ! pas au saint ni à celles que vous jaune pissenlit pactise avec une croyez ! Je passerai sous ribambelle de vert. Du jaune silence cette agréable cure de ajonc au vert pomme. Du vert santé bucolique puisque mon espoir au jaune nickel. ami Dominique les a déjà commentées sur le site des Soirées à Langeac. En guise de Monts de France. En un mot, dessert, Catherine n’en revient magnifique ! Une grimpette à toujours pas de la brillante recommander. démonstration sur le triangle D’un côté, il eût été regrettable d’or fait par Marc. Tout un d’écarter la description du exposé rigoureux pour les 3 compte rendu. Voilà près de ou 4 figures géométriques 30 ans que le profil des gravées sur le cadran de sa versants Ouest et Est du col de nouvelle montre. la Charousse ont fait été tracés Eh ! Eh ! Je n’oublie pas les et commentés par Altigraph qui copains, les nouveaux et les en a publié les études dans son anciens, dont je m’abstiendrai « Atlas des Cols du Massif de citer les noms puisque Central ». A peu près à la Dominique les passe tous en même époque, Gérard Valla revue dans son compte rendu. réalisait une étude du profil en long des deux versants de la Ensuite, ce fut le tour du Puy Et puis, il y eut encore mon Charousse pour le compte de la d’Ysson près d’Issoire ou GPS naturel qui déboussola sur revue « Le Cycle ». Depuis les paraît-il, il y a du bon vin à la route de La Chaise-Dieu et internautes tels que boire et de belles filles à voir ! qui fit de ma quête un chemin Climbbybike et Ciclomaniac Un adage que je ne prendrais de croix compensé par un entre autres ont pris le relais. pas au pied de la lettre, voire à retour digne d’un ange qui vola Or, personne n’a jamais pris le ne pas croire ! Sauf pour la sur l’aile des vents jusque sur versant Sud-Ouest en première partie puisque ce fut les bords de l’Allier. considération c'est-à-dire l’éminence retenue par notre l’accès via St Julien-en- secrétaire pour y pratiquer les Enfin, comme il m’a fallu Mohlesabate. C’est donc libations de clôture. De plus, renoncer à la BIG l’occasion de rectifier cette un choix plus judicieux relevait concentration en Angleterre, je carence. de l’impossible quand on sait vais tenter de me dédouaner que Jules Romains y situe en aux yeux du Presi-Dan en lui partie l’action de ses « Copains rapportant mes commentaires ». sur un BIG haut lieu ardéchois où souffle l’esprit cyclo- Il y a encore un autre Jules, montagnard, c'est-à-dire le Col tout aussi pétillant de vitalité, de la Charousse. mon fringant compagnon de

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pourcentage inférieur à 2% de qu’honorable de la gent cyclo. pente. Par contre, je n’ai rencontré La distance totale de Riotord au aucun serpent se chauffant le col de la Charousse via St ventre bien qu’un ange tout de Julien-en-Mohlesabate est blanc vêtu m’ait interpellé au longue de 25.5 km et pied de l’immense croix pour développe une dénivelée justement me mettre en garde positive cumulée de l’ordre de de leur présence sur la route.

De Riotord à St Julien-en-M., 750 m et 300 m de dénivelée A propos du palpitant, c’est ce sont 11 kilomètres de négative. Un promeneur doit stop ou encore ? … Quoi ! montagnes russes qu’il faut tabler sur un temps de parcours … D’accord, d’accord ! passer à la moulinette. Trois de près de 2h30. J’arrête mon char d’autor. Bon belles bosses et deux descentes. A titre de comparaison : l’accès prince, je vous fais même grâce La plupart du temps sous le Ouest depuis Riotord compte du décor de ma digression qui couvert des sapins qui se 370 m de dénivellation pour aurait eu comme sujet « raréfient à proximité des une distance de 12 km. Quant L’Ardèche est-elle un piège premières maisons de Coirolles à par l’accès Est, le col est mystérieux pour certains qui annoncent les estives et les atteint en 21 km au départ aéronautes ? ». Il faut savoir champs de culture de la d’Annonay et affiche une que plus de 40 crashs aériens commune aux trois soleils. dénivellation de 885 m. ont eu lieu en Ardèche dont un Mon compteur affiche une Alors, qu’en penses-tu, cher dans l’entité des « Setoux » altitude de 1030 m devant la cador ? L’accès via St Julien, pendant la seconde guerre mairie de St Julien et recense n’est-ce pas aussi du sport ? mondiale. Interpellant, non ! plus de 300 m de dénivellation Tant pis, je n’en dirai pas plus. positive. La D441 relève Qui a dit que je n’écrivais aussitôt du col en direction du qu’au kilomètre ? « Grand Felletin » qui chapeaute le massif quelque 300 m plus haut. Moins d’une borne après le hameau de « La Berche », la route culmine à la patte d’oie à 1156 m et Au sommet, c’est la croix de recommence le numéro de Charousse, également appelée toboggan. En plus soft. En croix des Neiges, qui attire le effet, la route va onduler sur 6 regard. Cette immense croix kilomètres pour se retrouver en fer forgé, haute de 3 à 4 plus ou moins à la même mètres portant un Christ, est Une dernière précision ! Notez altitude au centre du village des située sur les limites de la bien que les notes sur le col de « Setoux », une localité Haute-Loire et de l’Ardèche. la Charousse, vous ne les devez dépendant de Riotord. Points Le socle est en pierre surmonté qu’à une grossière erreur de de vue magnifiques. d’une table ronde monolithe parcours de ma part. C’est le L’altimètre révèle à cet endroit percée par son centre qui donne propre de l’homme de se une dénivelée cumulée positive l’impression d’être une tromper ; seul l’insensé persiste de plus de 600 m. Mais avant ancienne meule. Je suppose dans son erreur nous rappelle de parvenir à ce carrefour du que cette croix monumentale Cicéron ! chemin de St Jacques de fait office de croix de chemin Comme j’ai loupé mon Compostelle, les maisons et servait autrefois de repère ou itinéraire de base par 2 fois en perchées comme des nids de limite. 3 jours, il y a peut-être un d’aigle se laissent admirer lézard quelque part ? depuis les abords de Clavas, situé à 1.5 km en contrebas des « Setoux ». Toujours au même croisement, il reste 5.5 kilomètres à gravir et je retrouve le trajet initial qui prend son origine à Riotord.

Cette finale, qui ne constitue En ce lundi lumineux de qu’une aimable promenade de Pentecôte, j’y ai relevé la quasi santé, développe un absence des automobiles et une fréquentation plus

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Facing William of Orange to the Mont Saint Baudille (318)

Hans KOEDIJKER

St. Martin de Londres July 2010.

Just above the southern French city of Montpellier there is a great cycling area. The mountains are not high, but the area is exceptionally beautiful and quiet to ride. An excellent area to train for a three-day tour in the Swiss mountains a little later this summer. In addition, the Mediterranean is not far from here, and there is enough time for other activities. go back passing the Pont de St. Martin. Diable, a phenomenon from the I choose today to cycle to Mont Roman period. Like the slightly Other BIGs in the area: St. Baudille. It is a beautiful more distant St.Guilhem le Pic de Tantajo (317): short, but pimple in the landscape and the Desert, where large crowds terribly steep; mast top on the mountain come on down. Fortunately, all Col de l'Espinouse (316), from reveals immediately that we are these people do not like cycling Bédarieux a fairly long, but dealing with a real BIG. .... Passing St Guilhem I follow slightly boring climb; Although not often claimed, yet along the course of the river Mont St. Clair in Sete (319): not too difficult I think. From Herault. This is a wonderfull direct removal of the BIG List the campsite at St. Martin de ride, especially when I see that please.This has got nothing to Londres goes up and down this road is called Avenue do with cycling or what so direction Puéchabon, Aniane Guillaume d'Orange. It looks ever. Cycling is in anyway and Gignac. A beautiful area like a home race for this Dutch impossible in Séte. with alternating vineyards and guy ... In Causse de la Selle I some livestock. In addition, turn to the right and back up quite a few tourists who visit the ridge to descend to the the tranquil medieval villages. starting point of this round in Approaching the Mont to the south side I come through Montpeyroux and Arboras. I fill the water bottles as it should be on the small square because I assume that from now w’re done with relative calmness.

Beyond Arboras it is great climbing. Never really steep, but warm, quiet and with a magnificent view. On top of the ridge, it is plane with to my right the ultimate goal. I go with a flat run-up to a tricky final piece. On top it is windy, but the view around is worth it. Goal achieved, so we write this BIG again on the trackrecord. I

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Col de Menté ie achter een 32 had of zo. Op Duits niet zo vloeiend mijn Meindert BRUGMAN mijn groet reageerde hij niet. mond uitkwam, dat ging van de (september 2010) Waarom niet? Het is zo’n zomer in Oostenrijk nog zo kleine moeite. In mijn eigen makkelijk. Zal er wel aan Deze roemruchte col stond 4 tempo peddelde ik weer lekker liggen, dat ik deze weken meer september 2010 op de rol. ’s verder. Ik was een kilometer met Engels en Frans (qui et Morgens verliet ik, een traantje voor de top, hier zou ik de Col non, bonjour) bezig was. Ik had wegpinkend, de groep van de de La Clin passeren. Helaas op dat moment 980 hm. Nog 20 Pyreneeën-classic. Het was geen bordje, maar ik tel hem hm te gaan voor een klimdag. ruim een uurtje rijden van wel als col nummer 218. Als je De afdaling ging makkelijk, Argelès-Gazost naar nog hoog in de hartslag kan uitzonderlijk goed wegdek. Sengougnet. Een kilometer of komen na 14 dagen fietsen, dan Tegen twee uur stond ik weer drie voor de voet van de col is dat een teken, dat je niet te bij mijn auto, met 1030 hm op vond ik een goed plekje voor diep bent gegaan. Even testen. de teller. Als je je auto weer mijn auto. Gisteren (op de Ik begon met 145 bpm. Groter ziet staan, is dat altijd een heel Tourmalet) had ik een ”hark”- schakelen, 155, nog groter, mooi moment. Je moet er toch dag, ben heel benieuwd hoe het staan zitten en bij 159….. niet aan denken, dat een vandaag gaat. Ik voelde me trapte (à la Johan van der Velde Fransman mijn auto even leent. opperbest (en heel gelukkig), in 1980 op Pra-Loupe) ik door Mijn laatste “echte” maar dat zegt niet alles. Bij de mijn versnelling heen. Ik viel beklimming zat er op voor dit voet van de col, waar je links af niet, maar stond wel met twee jaar. Het is een best klim- naar de Col de Portet d’Aspet beentjes aan de grond (en had seizoen geweest. (de berg van Casertelli) kunt wat bloed aan mijn Meneer Prudhomme als u bij gaan, sloeg ik rechts af. Het scheenbeen). Merde. Ben maar het googelen dit verhaal eerste deel ging wat op en af. gestopt met die “rarigheid” en tegenkomt, kunt u maar een Mooi om warm te draaien. Is rustig naar de top gereden. De conclusie trekken, deze dit nu alles? Nee dat was nog gebruikelijke foto van het historische col moet 40 jaar na niet alles. Het venijn zat in het collenbord genomen. dato weer in het tourschema laatste deel. Hele stukken 8 à In de reeds gememoreerde tour (van 2011) opgenomen 10%, met hele venijnige van 1971 barste op de top een worden. binnenbochten van de hairpins wolkbreuk los, volgens “het Alvast mijn dank namens de (gelukkig was er weinig internet” stroomden er Menté-fanclub. verkeer, dus ik kon ze ruim modderstromen over de weg. nemen). Het weer was best Even verderop in de afdaling, Naschrift jan. 2011: De Col de (zon en ruim 30C). richting Bigorre-de-Luchon, Menté zit – helaas - niet in de In de 14e etappe van de tour viel Ocaña (door een rare tour van 2011. van 1971 was het weer matig. manoeuvre van de De etappe ging van Revel, over Kannibaal), mogelijk had o.a. de Menté, naar Luchon. hij verder kunnen rijden, Ocaña reed in het geel, Merckx als Joop niet over hem lag ver achter (7 minuten) en heen was gereden. dreigde de tour te verliezen!! Doordat Ocaña niet verder Het klimmen ging vandaag kon, reed Eddy Merckx heel makkelijk. Wat zijn die weer in het geel en won (Amsterdamse) korstjes lekker ook deze tour. Fuente om onderweg te eten als vast won de etappe. voedsel. Er waren meer Nog even verder “grimpeurs” en “grimpeuses” geklommen naar de Col op de col. Iemand in een rood de Lagues (col nummer shirt kon ik heel lang achter me 220). Na een muesli- houden. Je zit dan altijd te reepje genomen te hebben denken, wie zou dat zijn, een weer omgekeerd naar de man of vrouw, jong of oud. Op Menté. Daar vroeg een slot liet ik “het rode shirt” maar Duitser me de weg naar voorbij gaan. Het was een man Col de Portet d’Aspet. Die op een mtb, geen wielershirt kon ik hem vertellen. Hij aan, en met een nog kleinere heeft ook bijgaande foto versnelling dan ik. Ik denk dat gemaakt. Raar dat het

81 BIG Review 2011

UNE JOURNÉE MÉMORABLE AU MONT-VENTOUX l’observatoire, mais ouf ! Il redescendre sur Malaucène à Michel MENARD était 22 h, le soleil commençait notre hôtel, d’une part pour à se coucher, tout était désert, conclure définitivement mon Vous connaissez tous la plus âme qui vive et malgré brevet, d’autre part pour Confrérie des « Cinglés du l’heure tardive il faisait très essayer de récupérer Mont-Ventoux » puisqu’il doux, le ciel était bien dégagé physiquement et moralement s’agit de grimper le célèbre mais je m’inquiétais de puis d’analyser la situation. géant de Provence, BIG No l’absence de : Absence. Cette descente qui aurait du 301, par ses trois versants : Comme le Ventoux ne présente être un véritable festival fut Bedoin / Malaucène / Sault. que deux versants routiers dans pénible, longue, et je suivis la Cependant il existe une son final, elle ne pouvait être ligne médiane de la route pour variante pour devenir « redescendu sur Malaucène, je ne plus m’en écarter par Galérien du Mont-Ventoux » venais de croiser des touristes. sécurité. Compte tenu de ma avec une quatrième montée par Donc inquiète, désirant participation, et de ma réussite, le massif des Cèdres, ce que je probablement venir à ma à ce grand Brevet très difficile fis en ce 12 juillet 1998, jour de rencontre, elle ne pouvait être et de cette suite malheureuse la finale de la Coupe du Monde descendue que versant Bédoin non prévisible, j’avais de Football à Paris ; pure (ou sur Sault) en passant et totalement déconnecté et coïncidence. s’arrêtant peut-être au chalet j’avais oublié que c’était aussi Reynard. Voilà et pourquoi le jour de la finale de la Coupe Cette histoire ne vous racontera comment tout dérapa … du Monde de Football. Mon pas ma journée sur ces 4 entrée dans la ville en montées qui dans l’ensemble Encore très peu habitué à effervescence avec une s’est bien déroulée malgré la s’orienter et à rouler en ambiance et une foule à la difficulté pour relever le défi, montagne, je lui avait expliqué limite de l’hystérie, me remit mais hélas la suite de et fourni un descriptif très dans la réalité. Il était inutile de l’aventure qui vira au complet et détaillé de l’ordre de me préciser, et que m’importe, cauchemar ou ce jour aurait pu mes montées (et descentes) ; qui avait gagné, vu les et dû être une de mes plus donc même impatiente, débordements de joie de tous belles journée dans ma vie de inquiète et en voulant anticiper ces gens. cyclo. Je ne vous dévoilerai pas notre rencontre, elle ne pouvait non plus le nom de la personne et ne devait se tromper et Après avoir rangé mon vélo qui m’accompagna pour son pourtant ... Que pouvais-je faire dans son local et avisé assistance, au risque de la faire ? J’étais fatigué, véritablement brièvement les gérants de passer pour une idiote et qui en épuisé, démoralisé et l’hôtel de l’aventure réalité ne l’est pas ; mais étant quasiment impuissant. Je pris (apparemment leurs pensées jeune conducteur, peu patience en attendant son étaient ailleurs … ); je expérimenté, etc … mais éventuel retour, espérant m’affalais littéralement sur cependant bien intentionné ; qu’elle se rendrait compte de mon lit, en ne cessant de penser mérite toutefois des excuses. Je son énorme étourderie et à Absence perdue dans la désignerai cette personne sous reviendrait sur ses pas. montagne, impuissant de réagir le nom de « Absence ». Une bonne Je n’étais plus très loin de vingtaine de conclure, à environ trois minutes plus kilomètres du but en remontant tard, la nuit le versant Malaucène, était tombée littéralement épuisé mais avec un très heureux de retrouver Absence beau clair de au sommet pour redescendre de lune et un concert à notre hôtel. Un silence pesant couple de touristes descendit en ; j’étais de voiture me confirmant bien au plus en plus passage sa présence au sommet inquiet. Je et qui s’impatientait. Long et pris la pénible ce final pour arriver à décision de

82 BIG Review 2011 dans l’immédiat tant j’étais avec peu d’infos, assis, songeur être présente ou pour le moins dans le « cirage ». en pensant qu’elle a pu très être passée au chalet, mais bien avoir entre autres, un imaginons le contraire: Il était environ 1 H 30 mn du accident ; puis ce fut la supposons que je m’y soit matin, le calme était un peu délivrance. On m’informa rendu en vélo (il ne faut pas revenu en ville. Je sortis de ma qu’elle était sur le chemin du oublier qu’à cette heure là tout torpeur reprenant peu à peu retour accompagné d’un gérant était désertique), et que je n’y mes esprits en ayant du chalet Reynard. Ce dernier trouve personne, qu’aurais-je partiellement récupéré; je pris très sympa, par sécurité l’avait fait ? Il m’aurait été impossible la décision de réagir fermement suivi avec son véhicule, pour du fait que j’étais littéralement en prévenant la gendarmerie et repartir presque aussitôt après épuisé, de remonter les 6 km je descendis de l’hôtel pour que je l’eus remercié. me séparant du sommet. Avec téléphoner. Du bar tout proche des SI on referait toujours le rempli de joyeux fêtards, un Que s’était-il passé ? monde mais il est certain que : pompier présent à mes cotés Difficile de comprendre les SI : Absence avait pris patience ayant suivi mes explications explications pour le moins de m’attendre 5 mn de plus, comprit mon désarroi, décida ambiguës de Absence. elle m’aurait vu arriver et de prendre l’affaire en main, . surtout me conduisit à la caserne d’où Il est vrai qu’elle s’impatientait SI : Absence en venant à ma la gendarmerie fut alertée. Dés et je la comprends, ma dernière rencontre avait pris la bonne cet instant à mes yeux tout montée fut longue et pénible ; direction, expliqué clairement deviendra confus dans le inquiète, elle voulut venir à ma oralement et sur carte, déroulement des opérations. rencontre, elle s’est trompée de Il faisait très doux dans la ville coté quand elle est partie puis la journée aurait vraiment en cette nuit, l’une des plus arrivée au chalet, elle dut été merveilleuse. courtes de l’année, et comme fournir des explications plus ou tout un chacun j’étais habillé moins claires sur ma journée, Michel MENARD. BIG 78 léger et même très léger sur ma route, surtout pour le puisque soudainement, je final de ma dernière montée et Nota: Vous pouvez retrouver le réalisais que je ne portais avec probablement a-t-elle (ont-ils) déroulement de mes quatre mon maillot qu’un seul … pensé me voir arriver d’un montées qui parurent sur la caleçon. instant à l’autre ? Elle prit (ils revue BIG No13 de mars 1999 prirent) également la décision sous le titre « Cinglé du Mont- Visiblement en ce jour de fête de prévenir par téléphone mon Ventoux ». Vous remarquerez Nationale et même Mondial, hôtel pour donner sa position, que sur la fin de mon récit, j’ai malgré le sérieux de la mais comme personne n’était quelque peu menti car jusqu’ici situation, je dérangeais pas mal présent ??? à ce moment là, il je n’ai jamais osé raconter cette de monde, en réalité je les em ne put y avoir de suivi … mésaventure. …. ; par la suite Absence confirmera mes pensées. Il est certain que dès le début je Confrérie des Cinglés du J’attendis de longues minutes me suis douté qu’elle devait Mont-Ventoux

Monsieur Christian PIC

13 rue Chateaubriand «Montcharras »

42290 SORBIERS

FRANCE

Tel : 04 77 53 16 18

E-mail : cingles.ventoux@club- internet.fr

83 BIG Review 2011

Crossing the Pyrenées by bicycle II. - 2010. performances by bicycletouring 10% elite of this club, and with Gábor GYÖRGYI and cycloclimbing. I’m not a it to achieve the 6000m typ of racer or competitor heightdifference, a record for In spring basically I was during my tours and also in my me – naturally by my 13,5 kg thinking about an alpine life, but when somebody start weighted touring bike. This is a bicycletour collection roads to compete with me or wanted true challenge where you can’t above 2000m there, when – at to overcame me, I’m not the travel by car between the the start of 2010- one of my one who simply let it. I like to ascents and collect the ascents acquaintances wrote me an e- compete with correct by that way, there are no tricks. mail wether I’m interested in conditions and comparison. It depends on the legs and not joining them to their Pyreneen With my 3 week long tour about travelling or money. bicycletour. While I had (with its result) and with one That’s why I love such freedom to cycle my tours and day long tour (with the challenges ! It doesn’t mean if cycle with them when I want, it challenge of the Galerien one has higher salary and can seemed that I could collect the version of Club des Cinglés du afford more travelling, or live remaining 10-11 paved roads Mt Ventoux) my plan was to closer to the mountains, only above 2000m by bicycle that I achieve such thing that not too one thing that counts……(or hadn’t cycled in 2007. many cyclist can claim. not eactly, while there are Accidentally in that period for weight differences between the when the guys planned the In the following text you can bikes.) tour, the Tour de France cycled read about the more interesting I was just to start when I there: it seemed that we could days (text about ALL OF THE realised that the fixing of the meet the racers, the caravan 3 DAYS will be found here mudguard became too slack times without causing delay in www.gyorgyigabor.hu/2010_Pi and it reached the back wheel; our bicycletour. reneus_eng.html from the end they grate against each other. I 2 weeks before the start Febr, 2011.) had to set it a few times for the because a vis maior time, when I could start. situation of one of the At the end of the calm tour participans they told village with morning me that maybe they quiet I had to stop again wouldn’t be able to and try to set mudguard cycle in the Pyrenees or the wheel. The day and 1 weeks later it didn’t started well. The became sure. His friends Sun hadn’t rose up when felt solidarity with him, I started the 1st climb of but I (only an the Mont Ventoux next acquaintance of him) felt the vine rows. Turning so motivation and in the 1st bend between enthusiasm so I didn’t the trees along the road, changed much my plan just opposite of the and decided to cycle alone and straight pavement I could see to finish the tour not in Ax les 15 July, 2011, – 3rd day = 4 the TV tower of the summit. It Thermes but by the Barcelona times up to the Ventoux in a was great! The 9-10% steep airport. day: = 191,11 km + 6100 m kilometers started there. The szint forestry – and gravel - road Introduction: By a few After the year of 2008, when I started at 780m. On the steep occassions in the last year I cycled the triple (Cinglés) sections difficulty meant experienced that not spoken version of the Club des Cinglés cycling on steep gravel road rivalry was born in Hungary de Mont Ventoux in 2010 I without standing out from the between the bicycletourers. As prepared for the next level: the saddle to avoid slipping on the I think with my tours and with Galerien version with the 4 small gravels. Above 1350m the difficulty of my tours I had ascents and with more than the road ascended only very already showed something 6000m heightdifference. By 1st light, it was almost flat, but noticable in the cycloclimbing I of Nov. 2010 only the 10% of because of the poor quality of felt motivation to answer to the the 3870 members of the closed the road I couldn’t reached a others who started to compete club succeeded in cycling the good speed. After 2 kms I with me: I wanted to clear the Galerien version. My plan was reached the paved road situation about the to became the member of this between Malaucene and the

84 BIG Review 2011 summit. I haven’t cycled there After the next controll stamps, (that surprised me), „only” by morning lights, so it and eating at a very good, happyness and satisfaction. I fascinated me, mainly when woody park I had to face with thought why I didn’t felt cycled above 1600m I could the 3rd ascent of the Mont catharsis and I it is maybe see the remaining kms with Ventoux that I called „stove” because during the whole day I serpentines and above the TV based on my experiences from kept my hand on the challenge, tower. During rolling down to the year 2008. I used a wet on the achievement and I didn’t Bedoin I recorded the descent headscarf on my head and neck drive myself out totally. I and the views 4-5 minutes long (under the helmet) against the didn’t have to struggle very for videocamera. I was hot weather (34 degrees much, I had only a short fantastic ! I love Mont Celsius). This year again the 4 downturn. Ventoux! (Look the video!) kms long 10% steep part was At the top (at ca 11 pm.) I met In the camp I took my food hard without any shade. After with a holland pair with them I with me for the rest of the day 1-2 short stop and rest and little chatted a little bit about my (bread, can, energy bars, bit energy tanking, above day, the superb weather and bananas and muesli barts.) and 1600m I could enjoy cycling about the wonderful views and at 11 am (1hour behind as I and the beautiful panorama, I could also see a lot of stars in planned) I set out to cycle up views again. It was true the sky. I enjoyed very much the Ventoux 2nd time on that pleasure-cycling. I didn’t felt how far I could see lights of day. The ascent is 22,7 kms any tiredness, but enjoyed the villages, towns and above there long with 1622 cycling and the landscape. I everything was quiet. heightdifference (7,1% steep). wanted to live through this day I arrived back down to Bedoin I pushed the pedals on well- without any hurry and I did it just before midnight and I known and hot road. The such way not to forget it. rolled through the main street woody section was boring and Before the the last descent (to with straight back and opening for long time 10% steep and Sault) I took some photos at the my arms wide: I DID IT!!!!!! I hard. Because of the not summit, because I knew that had one of the highest point of enough food that I had eaten at next time there will be my 3 week long tour, so the ca. 1000m I had to take a stop darkness. By the Pyrenées could come and eat some food, banana, etc monument I could took Videos: and when I reached the Chalet heavenly photos with sunlights http://www.youtube.com/watch Reynard (ca. 1320 m) bought coming just from behind the ?v=3InMfBE0PPs there energy bars too and spent TV tower. Backwards the http://www.youtube.com/watch enough time for sitting and lower part of the ascent was ?v=zU0OUS_x2B4 getting some energy. The last light, not steep and very boring http://www.youtube.com/watch 7,5 - 8 kms from there wasn’t a in the forest, where the ?v=esUeBeiaH9g problem on such a legendary heightdifference increases and panoramic road with a lot slower than on other ascents of 20th July, 2010, - 8th day: of cyclings there. the Ventoux. After a while 115,65 km + 3062 m Photographers waited for the spending the time I counted heightdiff. cyclists at 3 places to take where I would broke my last Col de Peyresourde (1st photos and selling them on the heightdifference record (5316 categorie climb) is one of those internet to the brave cyclists. m). I could arrive at Chalet cols, from where we could see On the descent to Malaucene I Reynard and out of the forest long kilometers of serpentines met with a cyclist who – I think for 10 pm, so I just could see so later the racers for a long - wasn’t so experienced the summit by the last lights time as they would coming mountain-cyclist than me: I and could take a photo and closer and closer. Already from was faster in the bends and record videofilm. After a little the end of Garin few cars and without any fear I reached 81 bit snack I went on cycling on mobile homes and people were km/h speed and overcame him, the calm dark road towards the standing along the road and but on not too steep sections he lighted TV Tower. The weather were waiting for the Tour. came in front of me. That was very good, pleasant and I From time to time cyclists were annoyed me because he wasn’t didn’t have any problem with climbing, there was no traffic, a good descender, he only have the darkness, but it’s true that I because the road was closed. I bigger gears than my touring could see the lights of the cycled the last 2-3 kms with a bike, so 1-2 kms after I started villages far down on the fields, spanish guy pedalling and hurrying and reaching him and hills. When I reached 4th times chatting with me and then at on the last twisting kilometers this day the top of the the top, we took photos about overcame him again showing legendary, 1910m high Mont each other. I was waiting for him: I’m here again Ventoux I didn’t felt catharsis the racers 400meters before the

85 BIG Review 2011 summit, from where the fans calmly. Arriving at Col d’Azet By the end of the road I got were almost a wall along the I could see the hard ascents: the nice view back to the Col road. I took the more than 1 Col de Portet (2215 m) and the d’Azet. After rolling back I meter wide hungarian flag onto Pla d’Adet (BIG). US cyclists found my packs and then I had my bike. The caravane of the (from Massachusetts ) arrived to cycle the 4th BIG listed commercial and sponsor cars, at the top and were helpful and climb of the day, the Col vehicles were fantastic again, suggested me taking photos d’Aspin (ridden in 2007 too) but didn’t surprised me. This about me. that I started cycling at sunset. I time I could get one of the Based on the experiences of reached the top in dark and green plastic, flat hand with the one of the most serious sadly I experienced that I could fans usually clap. After it I cycloclimber, Jerry Nilson see thunderlights far away: in carried it (with 4-5 kinf of the (http://cycloclimbing.com/ ) , the direction where the mountain’s hat) to the end of the Col de Portet is one of the camping „waited for me”. my tour. hardest ascent in the Pyrenées. Without a rain I built up my After I could see the first I couldn’t exactly remember tent at 11 pm in a camp next to policemen motorbiker far down (but maybe a little bit) that it St Marie Campan, the start on the road the happening would be paved to the top, but I village of the legendary Col du lasted for ca. 20 minutes. hoped that it can be ridden Tourmalet. Although that was the 1st climb without a problem. The lower 2nd video of the day, about the of the day, the peloton was section for 7km long with 9- climbs: Azet, Pla d’Adet and broken for 4-5 blocks. Lance 10% steepness was a Aspin: Armstrong and ca. 10 others panoramic road. After hiding http://www.youtube.com/watch were cycling on the front and my pack behind bushes I ?v=gth_VAxWZak then came the others with cycled up without any problem Contador. It can’t be told how I enjoying the views to the 26th July, 2010 – 14th day: felt there when seeing border and to the previous col. Laspaules – Puerto de Espina everywhere biker groups and As I was cycling up I though (1407 m) – Castillo de Tor – motorbikers by them and about wether how much time I Presa de L’lauset (2193 m) – helicopter in the air, etc. I took would have to cycle in dark. Castillo – Boi Taüll (2038 m) – pictures with a photo machine After turning right onto the Castillo de Tor = 144,4 km + in my rigth hand and recorded road to Col de Portet, the 2606 m videofilm with the camera in pavement lasted for 3kms, then my left hand. The mood was it was gravel and dirt road. unbelievable: the fans were Because more hours of cycling louder and louder as the racers were ahead of me I turned come closer. Instead of other back: I wasn’t sad, because this sentences look the pictures and summer in the Pyrenées mainly my video about it: the paved roads above 2000m (http://picasaweb.google.com/g were important for me. yorgyigabor8/2010BringaTOU Because I cycled 600m up I My plan for this day was a RazasAPireneusokbanIIBenne thought visiting the BIG listed local tour with two roads (Presa TourDeFranceNezes# video: Pla d’Adet wouldn’t need L’lauset and Boi Taüll) above http://www.youtube.com/watch much time. 2000m, but no BIGs. The ?v=IduBQFg7X44 ) Last time the Tour de France serious headwind that I My next climb, the 1580m high visited Pla d’Adet in 2005 after experienced a day before Col d’Azet (BIG) was few a brutal stage, but I was cycling to Cerler was the same times mountain top finish with interested more in the stage of this morning, so I had to fight the name: Val Louron – Azet 1993, hard to Bono, the bottom of the the finish is ca. 1-2 kms next to (http://bikeraceinfo.com/tdf/tdf 1st climb. After turning left the col by a ski center. In 1991 1993.html ) with Collada del from the main road, the ascent Claudio Chiapucci won the Canto (I cycled it 1 week later) – based on the profile of stage and my favourite Puerto de la Bonaigua (2072 http://www.adrianlorente.com/ Indurain got the yellow jersey. m), Col du Portillon, Col de puertos/datos/HU/llauset.html - The climb is 8-11% steep for 4 Peyresourde and than Pla lead through 12,3 km long km long and the 2nd half of it d’Adet. Zenon Jaskula won this poorly paved road to the lake; gives great views back to the 230km long stage ahead of it’s heightdifference is 849 m valley, the spanish border, the Rominger and Indurain were which means 6,9% average lake and the Col only 3 seconds behind him. steepness (but it has ca 1,5 km d’Peyresourde. At some places The 9-10% steepness wasn’t a almost flat section). After cows were lying along the road problem for not so light body. , the pavement became

86 BIG Review 2011 more and more broken and then wonderful bicycletour. After the pavement is narrower and my tour in 2007, when I During the bicycletour I cycled narrower until it is only a crossed the Pyrenees from the 2297 kms + 42866 m narrow, 20-40 cm wide strip. Atlantic ocean to the heightdifference, which is the The road already above 1000m Mediterranean sea, in 2010 I 2nd mountainous tour of the is a panoramic road: first I crossed it from the french last 7 tours which are at a could look down to the main Canal du Midi to Spain, higher level of cycling on valley, then up, into the inside Barcelona and finished mountains then before 2004. valley where the road ascended collecting all paved roads During my tour in 2010 with higher and higher to the dam above 2000m int he Pyrenées. I Mont Ventoux and 2 weeks in on the grassy and then steep, enjoyed that I cycled not only the Pyrenées I cycled up to 11 rocky mountainside. The the well known ascents, but Hors categorie climbs of the landscape is wonderful, I think other beautiful ones, like Presa Tour de France and Vuelta it is one of the most beautiful L’lauset, Puigmal valley or Els a’Espagna. ascent of the spanish pyrenean Cortals, Lac Bouillouses, etc. At last informations, numbers climbs. The road arrived In 2011 I will visit the Alps without any comment: (I was through a more than 1 km long again to come closer to my very motivated to reach this) A tunnel to the dam, which gave goal finish collecting the list about the well known and me rare beautiful view: the 2000s of the Alps not later than most known bicycling water surface was surrounded 2012. websites, climb collections of by snowy and rocky mountains the Pyrenees (and not only) while dawnwards I could see Part of the summary: In Spain with the numbers of their listed sunny, grassy, friendly the huge and steep, almost climbs above 2000m in the mountainside. If the pavement vertical rockwalls, Pyrenees: Quaeldich.de ( 13 wasn’t so terrible I could say: mountainmassifs fastinated my pieces), Cyclingcols.com: 21 the view compensates for the very much, so as I experienced pc, (but not all of them was bad quality of the road, but not this for minimum a half day I cycled by the owner, for (me). This road was told to be thought and now I think: example Puigmal), renovated last time 35 years although it can be found not on Cycloclimbing.com (9), ago. the terrain of the mythical Tour http://home.1asphost.com/edwi Cycling Boi Taüll wasn’t an de France mountain stage nsel (20), Salite.ch / unforgettable memory; it was routes, but maybe this ca. 100 climbbybike.com (5+5+9=19) just a normal climb with usual km wide region (from the line • gyorgyigabor.hu : 22 (+2: Col views. I reached the top 1 hours of the col de Portalet to the line de Tentes, Botella) pieces after sunset and arrived back at of Cerler and Rio Esera) is the the camp before midnight. most beautiful in the Pyrenées. http://www.gyorgyigabor.hu/Pi More about this day: Because of my determination reneusok_emelk_lista.php www.gyorgyigabor.hu/2010_Pi to collecting all of the paved reneus_eng.html roads going above 2000m in For March, 2011 I would like Videos (for March): the Pyrenées on the spanish that each of the paved roads http://www.youtube.com/gyorg side I finished almost all of my above 2000m of the Pyrenées yigabor days by darkness: I didn’t want would be found on my youtube to hurry but take enough videos ( photos, videofilm, stopping www.youtube.com/gyorgyigab when I wanted to enjoy the or ) beauty, etc. Although those days weren’t easy, in long term I think my

On 1st of August I arrived at decision was Barcelona, where – in the good: with the evening, by twilight - as I was successful tour swimming and enjoying the sea and collecting I under the airplanes that flew feel happier than above me in every 5 minutes I with a little bit felt catharsis : with enjoying more rest time the evening swimming and but with minus l feeling the happyness, that I - 2 climbs above finished an effective, 2000m.

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Sneeuwpret in de Alpen fietspad dat in het onderste deel sneeuw. Moet kunnen is mijn Wim van ELS van het Maggia-dal van dorp inschatting. Al snel moet ik in naar dorp slingert. Meestal zijn een bocht even van de fiets In 2009 had ik tijdens mijn dergelijke paden moeilijker vanwege de sneeuw. Daarna omzwervingen in Zuid- maar ook leuker dan de volgen lange stroken waar ik Frankrijk en op het Iberisch doorgaande weg al heb je altijd nog net een metertje ruimte heb schiereiland nauwelijks sneeuw kans op onverharde stukken. om te fietsen. Maar met het gezien in de bergen. Toen ik En weet je niet waar het pad stijgen van de meters nemen de eind mei naar de Alpen trok naar toe gaat? Geen probleem, hoeveelheden sneeuw in rap verheugde ik me al op wat als de bergen maar hoog tempo toe. Gelukkig is zo'n “sneeuwpret”. Op de genoeg zijn kom je niet snel in racefiets veel makkelijker onverharde klim naar de Passo het verkeerde dal uit. Vanaf dragen dan een ATB. Porte del Pasubio nabij het Bignasco begint de echte klim. Bovendien kan ik daarbij het Gardameer is het meteen raak, Ik kom nog door een paar fietsspoor volgen van boven een hoogte van 1700m dorpjes waar, gelegen in zo'n genoemde tegenligger. Wel moet ik mijn ATB een paar keer afgesloten dal, de tijd stil lijkt prettig als je niet meer kunt een stukje door de sneeuw te staan. Voorbij het eerste zien waar de weg loopt en duwen. Een paar dagen later grote stuwmeer wordt de weg kloven volledig zijn laat ik me vertellen dat de steiler en ben ik een eenzame dichtgesneeuwd. Intussen andere zijde, met een aantal fietser geworden. Met nog 5 geniet ik van prachtige plaatjes tunnels, nog mooier is. Dus wie km en ruim 500m die moeder natuur me schenkt, weet moet ik daar nog eens hoogteverschil voor de boeg tegelijkertijd heb ik mijn terug. plots een slagboom. bedenkingen of ik de top wel Met de fiets geraak je daar kan bereiken. Onder het mom Op de meeste cols heb ik geen natuurlijk wel aan voorbij maar van toch nog even dat volgende problemen omdat deze sneeuwvrij worden gemaakt. Op de schitterende Col de Nivolet in het Grand Paradiso gebied en op de Stelvio fiets ik kilometers tussen metershoge muren van sneeuw. Op een zonnige zondag sta ik bovenop de Stelvio, het ziet er zwart van de motorrijders met een witte achtergrond. De beroemde 49 bochten richting Prato zijn echter nog volledig met sneeuw bedekt, dus ook voor hen geen rondje maar een rechtsomkeer.

Lago di Naret Het is inmiddels half juni, de Zwitsers moeten nog bijkomen van hun feestroes na de overwinning op Spanje. Zij daarna ligt er wel veel rotzooi, stukje proberen en dat telkens kunnen er wel van winnen. Ik takken en rotsgesteente op de opnieuw zie ik uiteindelijk de ben beland op een camping aan weg. Ik kom een ATB-er tegen stuwdam. Ik stal mijn fiets in de noordzijde van het Lago en we groeten elkaar in het de sneeuw en vervolg mijn pad Maggiore. Na een verplichte voorbijgaan. Ik krijg al meteen voor het laatste stukje. Ik heb rustdag vanwege de vele regen spijt dat ik hem niet staande de coördinaten van de top stap ik op mijn fiets met als heb gehouden om te vragen hoe ingegeven op mijn GPS en zie doel het ruim 2000 meter hoger het daarboven is. Ligt er niet dat ik in eerste instantie de top gelegen Lago di Naret. Meer teveel sneeuw? Ik kijk eens aan de verkeerde zijde van het dan 50 km bergop waarvan een naar de wolken die overtrekken stuwmeertje zoek. Op de deel vals plat en, langs een want ik heb geen zin daarboven stuwdam verwijst een bordje stuwmeer, zelfs een paar km in alle eenzaamheid overvallen naar Passo del Naret. Ik heb vlak. Al snel kies ik voor het te worden door onweer of geen idee of deze pas een

88 BIG Review 2011 stukje verder aan het eind van problemen en hoop dat die sneeuw en klauter naar de de doodlopende weg ligt of dat tunnel nog op zich laat tunnel. Nou had ik wel eens het misschien een echte wachten. ooit gelezen dat je toch wel een doorgang, naar het Gotthard Dan een bergstroompje dat zaklamp nodig had in deze massief (?), betreft voor mijn pad kruist. Ik heb geen zin tunnel, maar aangezien ik altijd voetgangers. om door het ijskoude water te alleen maar Nederlandse waden maar zie nergens een fietsers met verlichting zie in Col du Parpaillon oversteekmogelijkheid. Wat te tunnels dacht ik dat het hier Ik heb Embrun nauwelijks doen? Wellicht licht er al snel ook wel mee zou vallen. Mooi verlaten of er staat al zoveel sneeuw dat ik toch terug niet dus, de tunnel is ruim 500 aangegeven dat de bekende moet, kan ik net zo goed hier meter lang en zonder tunnel op de col gesloten is, en omkeren. Na 5 minuten verlichting. Wel kaarsrecht dat eind juni. Eigenlijk heb ik treuzelen bedenk ik dat ik er waardoor ik het eindpunt kan deze dag toch niks beters te misschien toch doorheen kan zien en dus waag ik het erop. In doen dus fiets ik maar door. fietsen. de verte zie ik een zaklamp, dat Bovendien weet ik niet of de Een te optimistische gedachte moeten de 2 fietsers zijn. Ik tunnel voor of na de top is. want prompt sta ik tot mijn heb nog maar 20 meter enkels in het water. Maar ik afgelegd en sta al voor de De contouren van het Lac de ben er door en tevreden ga ik tweede keer tot mijn enkels in Serre-Poncon vervagen terwijl weer verder. Uiteindelijk valt het water. Met mijn ik gestaag doorhark op ditmaal het met de sneeuw, waarin ik navigatiesysteem probeer ik mijn mountainbike. nog andere fietssporen wat bij te lichten, tevergeefs, Halverwege de klim verdwijnt ontwaar, mee waardoor ik het is gewoon niet te doen. Van het asfalt en de zwaarste maar slechts enkele stukjes moet de twee jonge Franse fietsers mooiste kilometers volgen. De lopen. Als ik al boven de begrijp ik dat de tunnel tevens eerste sneeuwresten zijn ook 2600m zit ontdek ik achter een het hoogste punt is. Ik heb mijn meteen het eindpunt van verse berg sneeuw de tunnel. doel, de Col du Parpaillon, autosporen. Ik ben aangenaam verrast als ik bereikt. Ik ken vooralsnog weinig twee fietsen zie staan in de

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Montserrat, BIG 435 referencia a la Escolanía de belleza de la montaña es Claudio MONTEFUSCO Montserrat, otra entidad muy espectacular, desde cualquier prestigiosa que da personalidad punto de vista. A nivel La montaña de Montserrat es a Montserrat, una escuela de deportivo es una escalada mágica y es un símbolo para niños cantores, que además de exigente como veréis en el los catalanes. El origen de sus una intensa formación humana perfil de Raul Massabe que formas redondeadas ha sido e intelectual ofrece una intensa aparece al final del artículo. objeto de todo tipo de educación musical. En este Por último, a nivel mediático, especulaciones y leyendas. punto hay que citar que el Montserrat ha sido punto de Estas maravillosas montañas Virolai es un himno en paso e incluso final de etapa de fueron creadas como hoy se homenaje a la Virgen que con diversas etapas de la Volta a ven, alrededor de 25 millones el tiempo se ha convertido en Catalunya y de la ya extinguida de años atrás, a través de un un símbolo espiritual y Setmana Catalana (Voltas a largo proceso de erosión de la patriótico de los catalanes. Catalunya de 1978, 1981, 1982, roca. Se cree que esta zona 1984, 1989, 1994, 1995 (final estaba bajo el agua, gracias a Hoy día Montserrat se trata de de etapa con triunfo de la cual se crearon sedimentos. un macizo que se eleva hasta Jalabert), 1996 y 1997, y en la Las grietas verticales que más de 1.000 metros sobre el Setmana Catalana de 1983. configuran la montaña terreno que la rodea, lo que causaron desprendimiento de supone una atalaya inmejorable Pero siempre se ha llegado parte de ella dejando a la vista sobre toda Catalunya. El hasta el Monasterio (o más formas curiosas tales como Monasterio de Montserrat se exactamente hasta el parking dedos. sitúa a 734 metros, mientras inmediatamente anterior), que que el pico más elevado es San es la altitud que sitúa nuestra Sobre el año 880 fue Jeroni, a 1.236 metros, página web. Sin embargo a encontrada en una cueva de la accesible a pie sin ninguna nivel escalador es muy montaña la imagen de la virgen dificultad técnica. interesante la prolongación que podéis ver en la foto (una hasta Sant Joan, la última virgen negra, la “Moreneta” en Se trata de un BIG que lo tiene estación del tren cremallera, catalán) y sobre el año 945 se todo: turísticamente es uno de que sube hasta los 1034 metros, funda el Monasterio de Santa los principales destinos de suponiendo esta prolongación Cecilia. Sobre el año 1200 se Catalunya con más de 2 2750 metros de longitud y 300 documenta la primera Millones de visitantes al año: la de desnivel -media del 11%-

90 BIG Review 2011 con un km más duro entre los (http://www.montserratclimbin No es de extrañar que 1400 y los 2400 metros con un g.com/), con 22 km de dura Montserrat fuera el lugar 16% y una máxima del 30%. a pie, y la la Matagalls- elegido por el BIG para Este tramo no está asfaltado, Montserrat celebrar sus 25 años, alzando pero sí cimentado, (http://www.matagallsmontserr las bicis al cielo... perfectamente transitable por at.cat/Mm/), una durísima una bicicleta de carretera. prueba de excursionismo popular de 83 km que hay que Hay diferentes maneras de recorrer en menos de 24 horas. llegar al Monasterio de Montserrat. A nosotros nos Las formas de la montaña interesa especialmente la hacen que también sea un subida por la carretera, destino muy apreciado por los lógicamente, son 8,5 km a un amantes de la escalada desnivel medio del 6,9% (ver deportiva. Sus características perfil), pero hay que decir que agujas, son un verdadero reto el interés turístico de la para los amantes de este montaña provoca que la deporte. carretera sea un tanto peligrosa y esté plagada de autocares, especialmente los días festivos. Es especialmente interesante saber que se puede llegar también en teleférico y también con un tren cremallera (inaugurado en 1892, clausurado en 1957 y reinaugurado en 2003, ¿no os recuerda esto al Puy de Dome?). Obviamente también se puede llegar subiendo a pie (excursión especialmente recomendable para los más pequeños) en un trayecto no superior a 1,50 horas desde Monistrol de Montserrat.

Montserrat es al mismo tiempo es una montaña muy ligada al deporte. En la bicicleta de carretera hay que decir que a nivel cicloturista cada año se celebra La Diada Montserratina, subida de todos los clubs cicloturistas catalanes a Montserrat a finales del mes de octubre, y en las que el Abad (máxima autoridad del Monasterio) da un recuerdo a todos los clubs presentes. En bicicleta de montaña se disputa la pedalada Sant Joan Despí - Montserrat, con 73 km, y la recientemente creada La Portals de Montserrat (http://www.laportals.cat/).

A nivel de competiciones a pie hay que destacar la Cursa Montserrat Nord

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Ötztaler bicyclearathon „I had a dream” A story about how a dream come true trialtour 6 days after Marmotte the station was stolen by a shit Gábor GYÖRGYI showed me that I could be men. I didn’t have time for cycle the bicyclemarathon in long sadness. I just called my In 1993, when I was 17 years time, but that was the 1st time mechanic and 1 hour later we old I saw a half an hour long that – because of the timelimit were speaking about how my summary ont he DSF TV by St Leonhard – I couldn’t be new bike should be and when? channel about the Ötztaler sure about it. That was the 1st Although he was on holiday bicyclemarathon: the time that I had to prepare ont he following week, he participants started in myself not to have too long helped me and I have my new Innsbruck and climbed first stops and not to enjoy the rest bicycle with thinner (28) Küthai (2017 m), then for long time and to limit wheels a few days before the Timmelsjoch (2509 m) and taking photos and recording bicyclemarathon. On the Jaufenpass (2099 m) and rolled videos. I didn’t want to give up weekend of 20th of August I down to Innsbruck after recording videofilm about the could cycle on his racebike: ascending Brennerpass. Ötzi - one of the best after 20 years of bicycling that Next year the winner experience of my life -, as I was the 1st time cycling a participated in the the Giro record my tours for 10 years. racebicycle and I could d’Italia. This year, in 1993 was experience the difference! 4 my first bicycletour abroad and Antecedent, preparation: days later I traveled to Austria, got experiences about In february, 2010 more than where in the evening I cycled bicycletouring with packs and 13000 registered for the up to Küthai – the 1st climb of tent and was followed by Ötztaler bicyclemarathon, and the bicyclemarathon. On the nearly 40000km bicycling 17 hungarians of them was following day I climbed the last abroad and cycling above selected to between the 4500 paved ascent above 2500m I 2000m more than 150 times in participants. The spring, the missed up to that time: the the Alps, Pyrenées and the rainy season wasn’t ideal for wonderful Kaunertal (2750 m). Canary islands. preparing, but somehow we When I saw that short film, I could increase the Exciting days before the Ötzi: didn’t know how the moutains heightdifferences of our tours Alredy 4-5 days before the would fascinate me, that was and in June I had a 9 day long bicyclemarathon, cold weather the year too when I first „roads above 2000m” collector was forecasted for the weekend followed the Tour de France on bicycletour in the Alps during and unfortunately it happened. TV. Not much time after it, I which I cycled 10 times above On Thursday it was summer, read about this 2000m. Noticable are the 14- but on Saturday it was only 15 bicyclemarathon in prospekts, 16% steep Berghaus Nagens degrees Celsius in Sölden and but only after 1998 (when I (2127 m) in Switzerland (video we were waiting for the end of first cycled more than 4000m soon), the legendary, partly the rain in our appartman. As heightdifference in a day) I 23% steep Plan de Corones the Sun first shined into the flat thought that sometime in my (2273 m) and the Hochstein we bursted into gladness / life I would like to cycle the (2057 m, Austria) with 10% delight. During the day we got Ötztaler bicyclemarathon. average steepness 2-3 sms from the organisers I cycle since I started it by a In July I cycled more than 2 and at 1 pm we got this: „Hello touring bike, and did the weeks in the Pyrenees (11 Gabor ! Welcome in Sölden by Granfondo Fausto Coppi, times above 2000 m) which the junilee Ötztaler Campagnoló and La Marmotte was just my successful day on bicyclemarathon. Here began (with extra that day I had Mot Ventoux, when I cycled up your dream (this the slogan)! 200kms + 5316 m) also by to it 4 times in a day by my Start at 6:45.” touringbike so my plan was the touring bike ( 6126 m From different source of same: ride the hardest classic heightdiff.) and truely I didn’t informations ( TV, text, (not extreme) bicyclemarathon reached the end of my strength. internet) I got infos about the next to the 7-8 kg weighted Just 2 weeks before the weather in every 2-3 hours. In racebikes by my touringbike bicyclemarathon a unwaited the afternoon it seemed that the with its luggage rack and occassion broke my plan. My 2 days old forecast that said fender. touring bike that I wanted to changeable weather, was The La Marmotte and my carry to my mechanic and was changed for better one: the Ötztaler bicyclemarathon locked by two simple lock at rain’s probability decreased to

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15-20% at Brenner and think about it a little bit and I bicyclemarathon that he hadn’t Innsbruck and even 6 hours as I reached my soul I cycled even with a racebike. sunshine would said to shine. understood how much this day In the TV it was said that would mean to me: This day I For the marathon I prepared a between two rainy day the could make my dream come precise schedule; this small Saundfay would be basically true, to have the greatest goals led me to reaching the dry and only in the afternoon achievement of the classic great goal. I calculated for each can be occur scattered showers. bicyclemarathons. A GREAT sections short stops, rests and Fort he morning 10 degrees DAY WAITED FOR ME! besides I hoped the effect of Celsius was said for Sölden. It the faster field. seemed good, we were I thought I was between the optimistic. most motivated participant, I wrote the travelogue from In the evening our pleasant because: sections to sections: squad tried to define the right • The importance and Sölden – Oetz (7:40; net time: clothes when we got the last difficulty of the Ötzi I planned 40:43) sms from the organisers: There it, I prepared for it with small We hardly left Sölden I looped will be 4 degrees celsius by the steps above for years. As its ahead a little to reach higher start, put on warm clothes and slogan says: The Ötzi became speed and after a few kms I wished us all the best. We my dream. It meant me so found an ideal group with 40- laughed in agony. After a fine much, than the Hawaii ironman 45 km/h (on a descent pasta dinner we went to sleep for the ironman participants. surprisingly 65-67 km/h). after 11 pm. • The 2nd reason was Coming closer to Oetz we „given” for me by a could see that the top of the cyclotourer, when he stated the mountains is lighted by 2010.08.29. ÖTZTALER he would like to be the best sunshine; we could hope for RADMARATHON: (hungarian ?) BIG member. Up good weather. I reached the to now the BIG wasn’t a corner, exit to Küthai (2017 m) My clock rang at 5:12 am, the competition for me and I don’t 7 minutes before my schedule thermometer showed 7 degrees think it’s good to speak about at 7:47. Celsius, but the rainclouds competition because of the went away. On my touringbike different conditions (2 times Oetz (812 m) – Küthai (2017 there are fenders and beside the more years for collecting BIGs, m: 9:27-9:47), climb’s net handlebars-bag I carried a or not the some holiday or time: 1:35:27 small rucksack on the luggage family tasks, or touring with or Küthai’s climb is 17,5 kms rack, so I didn’t have problems without heavy panniers, etc, long and has more than 1200m how much clothes to carry. I but I thought if I’m called for a heightdifference, so it is put on short sleeves jersey, competition, the Ötzi is a good averagely 7,5% steep, but polar long sleeved jersey, a oppurtunity to show something. partly 10-11% steep for kms normal long sleeved jersey, • The last one has and for half km it is 15-16% then wind-vest and breathing antecedent from 2005, when steep. jacket with polar cap and warm cycling from Vienna to The field slowed, everybody gloves. In the rucksack beside Budapest I had a quarrel with a adjusted to his/her normal pace the machanic kit and ebergy cyclist who wrote me because it was a long ascent. I bars I carried raintrousers and disdainful sentences in a went with 8-10 km/h with the gum shoes. Pedalling to the forum: he disdained those field, sometimes I overtook a start we could see that the cyclists who not cycle without few people if they were slower surrounding mountains were stops, but look around on ther than the field. By the 9% steep covered with light snow above tour, stops for eating and part next to the stream I 2300m. We saw a few guys recording video taking photos recorded a hungarian pedalling in short biketrousers, and try to enjoy the landscape touringpartner (Berger, BIG when one of them cycled and carries not only so little member) for video, but I backwards we laughed: „-He things and food than there is should say: videofilming isn’t a goes back to change for a long place in the backpocket of the light thing this time, because trousers ” By the start a jerseys. Opposite of me, for me you have to keep the handle helicopter watched us from its normal to carry enough bars with 1 arm and push the above. 12 minutes after the packs for food, clothes, etc. pedals with such way. By 1200 official start we rolled though After those sentences I waited m the Sun lighted onto the road the gate on which we could to do the Ötztaler by a and it has pleasant mood to see see:” Good morning, here touringbike, the the shined racers and their began your dream! It made me blews. By the serpentines (with

93 BIG Review 2011 cows along the road) I saw a Brenner viaduct and recorded molino told us: „A new dream 120cm small woman riding a videofilm, when from a began!” special small bike with ca. servicecar a guy took a picture normal wheels; he could keep about me with laughing. It Vipiteno (950 m) – Jaufenpass the field’s pace. seemed for him strange that I (2099 m, 14:54 – 56), climb’s Congratulations! By this time wasn’t a rweal racer, but a net time:1:33:22 another hungarian guy arrived bicycletourer with luggage The not too much time I had from back, so I could record rack, touring bike and with for the ascent caused that I him and later another guy for videocamera For me the couldn’t live it as cycling only videofilm. I felt good to hear dakagramms wasn’t important, for joy: for the climb I had that Dani’s opinion is that I am but I weanted to record my max. 15 minutes for stops the guy of 7 of us, he is sure memories. After the event I can (photos, video + at refreshment who would reach the finish say: There is no such money point): not too much! line. (It is not about our speed, for that I could shoulder to The Jaufenpass is 15 km long but how we prepared for the cycle it without having photos with steady 6,5 – 8,5% Ötzi. I did everything to have and videofilm. Before the steepness without any light enough chances.) Brenner plateau looking back I part. I ride it third time and Cycling through a small village could see the nice valley with enjoyed again the wonderful local inhabitants clapped for us. the road built onto the views to the snowy peaks and Reching the 15% steep part, mountainside with supporting grassy valleys by its start. Up after a while the field went into pillars. There were few to the end of the forest I usually a jam, because more and more hundred cyclists behind me. By stopped after 3-4 kms when walked next to their bikes. I the refreshment point I met those 20-30 men who I tried to cycle for a while, but at with Berger and Dani (Nora overtook cycled ahead of me last I had to stop and walk. I reached the pass 6 minutes again. At halfway a guy who was angry: Because of those before me), but while during overtook me slowly showed me who decided to cycle by too that section I didn’t eat enough with his hands: „-You push it hard gears everybody has to I sat onto a bank and ate calmly well!” – thank you. By this „suck”. Shit! enough energysource: soup, time the winner finished the On the last 5kms we could see cakes, Corny bars, bananas, Ötzi. the landscape ahead with the etc. I knew if I didn’t eat Above 1800m we could enjoy dam of a lake and later Küthai enough, I could probably reach beautiful panorama again with village. Again we saw clapping the end of my strength during cyclists riding the serpentines people, fans (I enjoyed very the 15 km long, 7,5% steep and grassy, rocky mountains much) and a molino with text jaufenpass ascent and then behind them under scattered on it: „Amazing!” By the reaching the tmelimit at St cloudy sky. By the refreshment refreshment point I went for Leonhard would be point I spend only 3 minutes to food and hot drink (and soup) questionable. take enough energy bars, after taking a few photos and Entering Italy – as on my trial bananas, etc with me. Because recorded video about it. Light tour in 2009 – we was welcame of the hurry that I had to do I wind raised the cold feeling (ca by pleasant weather. As I was the fasterst 7 of us, but the 7 degrees Celsius). On the cycled through Vipiteno a others were 46 – 20 minutes steep part of the descent I reached new speed record: 86 km/h.

Innsbruck (590 m) – Brennerpass (1375 m, 12:13 – 38), climb’s net time: 1:36:20 I turned towards Brenner 25 minutes before the closing car. On the ascent in a short time small groups were born; for a while I overtook a few cyclists, then founding an ideal group I joined them and enjoyed cycling (30-33 km/h) without weeling the speedwind. I just pedalled with a hungarian girl, Nora (BIG member) by the

94 BIG Review 2011 ahead of me: 20 minutes is the strength. An expensive and The road was built onto the time because I spent so much light bike doesn’t mean that steep mountainside, somewhere time at Brenner. without enough training he supported by pillons. Because Reading the information paper wouldn’t cycle the Ötzi to the of the often photo-taking and I knew that at such late time the finish. videorecording sometimes with descent would be closed, Above 1400 m I saw guys stops I had to recalculate my against the others I used the walking by their bikes; the light estimated time for the summit: total width of the road and so I and expensive bike wasn’t I have to warn myself to limit overtook ca. 20 riders to St enough. I have enough time, so my stops but I kept my hands Leonhard, that I reached in I didn’t regret time for taking on the „occurances.” time. photos or videofilms: THAT After overcomeing agan a men WAS ONE OF MY I heard second twice from my St Leonhard (695 m) – GREATEST EVENT, CAN IT back the same: „…- oh with Timmelsjoch / Passo Rombo BE UNDERSTOOD, CAN’T ? such an easy gears…”, but that (2509 m, 19:25 – 36), climb’s I could afford – that I didn’t try time I didn’t let it without net time :2:41:23 on La Marmotte – that I words: „-Not because of that!” By the start of the Passo stopped, stood my camera onto I cycled more than 155 times Rombo I enjoyed having a rock and cycled back to above 2000m and summerly I luggage rack on my bike, onto record myself riding my bike. I cycle in the Alps.” - and I which I could take my warm didn’t think ahead about the haven’t even spoken about the clothes and I could pedal success, simply enjoyed the weight differences of the bikes. wearing short trousers and landscape, the great feeling on Otherwise everybody had the jersey on me. We cycled by one of the hardest and noted occassion to change his gears pleasant summer weather one classic (not extreme) on his bike. of the TOP 10 alpine climbs. bicyclemarathon. I didn’t Above 2200m the hairpin Few cyclists followed each thought about it, but deep in bands were decorated by dozen other in every ca. hundred my soul I felt: I only had to of hanging Ötzi marathon meters; most of them cycle to the finish. I was sure I jerseys, which – behind the calculated with more hour long would reach the finsh – deep in scenic landscape raised the struggling, fighting up to the my soul. wonderfool mood of the Ötzi. summit. The known, almost flat part By a hairpin film-makers were The climb of Timmelsjoch / gave first view to the „WALL”: recording videofilm when I passo Rombo with ts 29kms the 9-10% steep, rocky arrived there. Quickly I took and 1796 m (6,2% steep) muntainside, where the road my videocamera and recorded heightdiff is the 113th hard of twisted and turned up to the them too with laugh on my the more than 10000 ascents of summit. face: „-Hello, ciao, Alles gute!” the climbybike. Halfway it has By the sunshined Bad Schönau I enjoyed every moment and almost flat kms, but before and refreshment point (17:27 – 50) lived the feeling of happiness! after it there are 6-8 steep girls in Traumdeuter (drem That was cycling for pleasure. kilometers. At the end 5 of the reader) jerseys serviced the Above 2200 m almost by each 8 kms are 9-10%. Serious! cyclists. Here there was 150-200m I met with at least By Moos I stopped for a wfile massage service. one cyclist who walked next to for a short snack: int he last Before that time I cycled twice his bicycle. 3 hairpin-bends few hours every minute was the Passo Rombo (I hardly above finally we arrived at the expensice, but now I had remember the 1st, when cycled tunnel, coming outside of enough time and I knew this by bike with heavy pack (25 which we found ourselfes ont climb well and knew me too. In kg) on it), but last year I he last km before the Passo 2009 on my trial tour my net pedalled there by sunset and by Rombo (2509 m). On the time was 3 hours. After the darkness, so I couldn’t see so summit (9:14-27 pm.) a banner village the road twisted and beautiful the snowy mountains with text on it stated: „Your turned on the grassy, and the glacier. At 1850m high dream came true!”Rolling panoramic mountainside. Every a textile with sentence on it through the Red bull gate a few minutes I overtook guys on was taken onto a rock to photograpther took pictures Trek or Simplon or Scott, etc motivate a german guy: „-Your about the successful and brave bikes. In a bend the molino told dream will come true, Marco, cyclists showing happiness us: „-Have you dreamt it?” the finish is near, give it reaching the top. As I stopped Although I cycled in the last everything, you can!” For me it and shooted videofilm again 15% of the field, overtaking was also good to read it, while the happyness and emotion people on expensive and lght I also can feel it and enjoyed could be heard from my voice: bikes simply gave me more the Ötzi very much. really a dream of my came true,

95 BIG Review 2011 or totally only after te finish. I rolled through the finish gate I adult: I have the cycling WAS HAPPY. I remembered shouted into the air: I DID IT! adventures before the Ötzi and those (with much less visited By the finish area people then the Post-Ötzi adventures alpine ascents ) who disdained around waited for the finishers; will come. With riding it I’m me and disdained the by my finish pleasant Dire not that bicyclist who I was bicycletourers who don’t cycle Strains song were sounding, the before it. without any packs and don’t speaker told us good sentences cycle without any stops. I felt (sometimes told the finisher’s Data: satisfaction for that, because names based on their number). Ötztaler radmarathon / Ötz those people hadn’t cycled By pleasant music he valleys bicyclemarathon Ötzi, but I did it even by a congratulated to all of the Net time: 10:33:00 touringbike. finishers and told us: Distance: 227,8 km As the best of our 7 men everybody who finished is a Avarage: 21,7 km/h hungarian group clocked 2:55 winner. Heightdiff: 5282 m on the climb, the winner’s Kcal: 6886 (Antonio Corradini) time was All of the members of our 7 only 1:27. men-women group finished Photos: For the descent I put on almost successfully, we soon met each http://picasaweb.google.com/g every clothes I had (som other. Not much after it, as we yorgyigabor8/ ewhere by the summit my were speaking about our POLAR measured 4 degrees adventures outside it was Videos (5 parts) can be found Celsius (maybe in the tunnel ?), raining again. For the morning here: so on the descent I could roll the mountains surrounding http://www.youtube.com/gyorg down by 65-70 km/h, and Sölden were covered by fresh yigabor passed few bikers whose speed snow above 1600-1700m, and was cautious (max 50 km/h) 1 day later the Passo Rombo because they wore short was closed because of too trousers. As I were speeding much snow. down on a long straight section deep emotions broke up from Afterword: With cycling the me and I started sobbing Ötz valley bicyclemarathon one because of happiness. It of my dream came true, and it happened, that I missed on the would remain at a rised / Mont Ventoux after climbing important place in my heart that 4 times in a day (6126 m forever: it was an experience heightdifference) : catharsis for a lifelong. With performing and great gladness, satisfaction, it I closed a chapter of my happiness: I DID THE bicycling adventures. In the HARDEST CLASSIC world of my thoughts I can BICYCLEMARATHON! I felt resemble it to becoming an that with the finish I demonstrate to everybody not to disdain the bicycletourers, while a bicycletourer riding by a touringbike can cycle the Ötzi without any hurry and struggle.

The short climb by the middle of the descent didn’t surprised me; everybody pedalled with joy on the faces there. Happy, brave cyclists were pushing the pedals towards the finish. I arrived at Sölden by twilight and lights on the streets; somewhere pedestrians clapped for the finishers. Of course I recorded my finish with my camera in my hands and as I

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Mijn tien favoriete bergen in Italië

Door: Marc PEETERS (www.marcpeeters.nl)

Italië: de bergen liggen er in schoonheid als het ware geboetseerd bij, ze lijken eigenhandig gebeiteld door Michelangelo himself. Elke berg heeft zijn eigen geschiedenis, zijn eigen elegantie. Mocht je daar aan twijfelen ga dan ’s avonds je licht maar eens opsteken in het plaatselijke dorpscafé in het dal, nestel je aan een bar met een kelkje grappa, en laat de oude mannen hun verhaal vertellen. Advies: geniet vooral kruiswegstaties aan de wand. Maar nog beter is het om ze onderweg, en zeker vanaf het Er brandt een eeuwige vlam zelf te ontdekken. Treed in de moment dat het zadelpunt je voor de overleden fietser. voetsporen van Hannibal en lachend tegemoet grijnst. Want Dit is het heilige der heiligen. Garibaldi en vraag je af welk bovenop kun je óf bedwelmd De grote kampioenen zijn beloofd land er aan de andere raken in de geur van Bratwurst goden, wij zijn stervelingen, kant van dat ene massief ligt. óf je struikelt hartje zomer nog die slecht kunnen rammelen Wat ook kan: laat je bepakking over de wintersporters met hun aan de poorten van de eeuwige op de camping achter. De lange latten. roem. campingbaas zal je bij het Tip: neem de afdaling naar Op het plein voor de kapel wegfietsen begripvol en Zwitserland over de Umbrail, zitten op een bankje oude instemmend toeknikken. eerste deel onverhard, maar gedistingeerde mannen, Soms zit er een rondje in, en doenbaar. Vergeet dan je weggelopen uit een film van anders neem je dezelfde weg paspoort niet! Fellini. Ze groeten je, zoals het als afdaling terug: voel dan de hoort. warme gloed in je lichaam 2. Madonna di Ghisallo (754 Naast de kapel staat het opwellen in het besef wat je meter, Lombardia) monument voor de fietser, met kort daarvoor allemaal niet Start Bellágio, lengte 10.7 km, een majestueus uitzicht op de overbrugd hebt. hoogteverschil 584 meter, uitlopers van de Alpen aan de maximum percentage 9-10% overkant van het Meer van 1. Passo dello Stelvio (2740 Fietsen is religie, zeker in Como. De eerste regel van het meter, Alto Adige) Italië. Het ultieme bewijs onderschrift luidt: “e poi Dio Start Prato allo Stelvio, lengte hiervan is deze beklimming, crea la bicicletta”. En toen 24.7 km, hoogteverschil 1847 vast ijkpunt in het najaar van schiep God de fiets. meter, maximum percentage de ‘klassieker van de vallende Ja, dit is Italië. 12-13% bladeren’: de Ronde van Niet te missen, onbetwist nog Lombardije. 3. Monte Nerone (1477 meter, steeds op 1. Bovenop ligt het santuario, het Marche) Posthuum een lintje voor alle kapelletje ter verering van de Start Pianello, lengte 13,5 km, wegarbeiders die hebben Madonna, patroonheilige van hoogteverschil 1002 meter, bijgedragen aan dit de reizigers. In 1949 door Paus maximum percentage 12% meesterbouwwerk, daarbij Pius XII uitgeroepen tot 2009, beelden uit de Giro vergeleken is de kathedraal van beschermheilige van de d’Italia. Ik zie renners in Milaan een prutswerk. wielrenners. processie naar boven schrijden, De Stelvio is vooral een ode Binnen boven het altaar hangen vergezeld van een helicopter aan de haarspeld, 48 in totaal de fietsen van Fausto Coppi, van de RAI als een telt deze berg er, gedrapeerd in , Eddy Merckx en klapwiekende aartsengel. Met serpentines tegen het machtige vele andere campionissimi. de klap verliefd. -massief. Kampioenstruien hangen als

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Een jaar later, ik fiets naar Op zomerse dagen zijn de boven. Een eenzame weg, 4. Colle della Fauniera (2511 weiden bevolkt met pastoraal gelegen in dit deel meter, Piemonte) picknickende Piemontezen. van de Apennijnen. De Start Pradléves, lengte 22 km, Denk niet dat de mensen je omgeving slaapt. Een herder hoogteverschil 1693 meter, uitlachen. die knikt, paarden met maximum percentage 14% Tip: neem de afdaling via de koebellen die opschrikken, Best kept secret. Een vaak Colle Esischie naar Ponte graspollen in het asfalt. vergeten fietsparadijs hier, Marmora. Beneden links ligt Boven is niets, alleen een onderin de Piemontijnse Alpen. een verrukkelijke trattoria. monument voor het Giro- De Fauniera is een zwarte loper peleton van vorig jaar, en die speciaal voor jou is 5. Passo Manghen (2047 misschien ook voor mij. Ietsje uitgelegd – een andere reden is meter, ) verderop onder de zendmast niet te bedenken. Een geitepad Start Borgo Valsugana, lengte van de RAI staat nog een op initiatief van de lokale 23 km, hoogteverschil 1634 kapelletje. Ook dat is Italië. wielertifosi verchroomd met meter, maximum percentage Daarom deze berg, met stip op een laagje asfalt. 14,5% 3. Aan het eind van de klim staat Sla bij Val di Calamento Let op: sla in Pianello rechtsaf een monument voor de rechtsaf en duik een feeëriek het dorpje in. Over de betreurde Marco Pantani, de bos in. In paradiso. De weg klinkertjes en de rest wijst zich laatste berggeit aller wurmt zich door de boomgrens. vanzelf. berggeiten. Je komt terecht in een Märklin- landschap. Daarboven zie je de laatste haarspelden. Worstel, kom boven en denk hard op: “La vita è bella”. Gelukkig, ietsje verderop in de afdaling ligt een gezellig kafeetje. De laatste keer dat ik hier fietste werd ik rap voorbijstoken door een jonge hinde. Ik dacht: “Ja, nu ben ik echt Il Vecchio”. Bovenop kreeg ik van haar echter complimenten. Ze was in training voor de Giro Femminile.

6. Passo di Gavia (2621 meter, Trentino) Start Ponte di Legno, lengte 26 km, hoogteverschil 1428 meter, maximum percentage 16% Een legendarische berg die sinds het jaar 1988 voor eeuwig met de Nederlandse wielersport is verbonden. Tussen de sneeuwbuien door schitterden twee jongens van vaderlandse bodem. Johan van der Velde kwam als eerste boven, maar raakte onderkoeld. stoof hem voorbij en won de etappe beneden in het dal. Toen was een stuk van de klim zelfs nog onverhard, het steilste stuk nota bene. Als een mier kruip je tegen de wand van het bergmassief naar boven, slechts geëscorteerd

98 BIG Review 2011 door een roofvogel hoog boven ochtend besluiten tot een overweging om het te proberen je. staking. Tot verdriet van alle alleen al verdient een Veni Gavia et pui mori! supporters die dag reeds compliment. verzameld op de klim. Ieder die zonder afstappen 7. Passo della Spluga (2113 Dat weerhield mij er niet van bovengeraakt schenk ik meter, Lombardia) om dat zelfde jaar wel naar persoonlijk een fles Chianti. Start Chiavenna, lengte 30 km, boven te gaan. De weg was nog Advies: zorg voor verse hoogteverschil 1788 meter, volgekalkt met remblokjes. maximum percentage 12,5% aanmoedigingskreten, en met Tip: er ligt een bypass ten Een venijnige mysterieuze verwijzingen naar een noorden via de Sella Valcalda, berg. boksende Wladimiro Belli, uit ideaal voor een rondje dus. Ga mee in de carroussel van de koers gezet om voorstelbare uitgekapte haarspelden en redenen. Tot slot vraag je af hoe de postwagen Het was heet die dag: de hele Dit is mijn favoriete lijstje. (een heuse!) van de Zwitserse klim snakte ik naar dat ene ijsje Iedere Italiëganger mag noorderburen zich hier van die gelateria in het dal. mijmeren over zijn/haar eigen doorheen wurmt. Laat je Boven lag het santuario er mooie bergen en rankings. voortstuwen door de onthulling vredig bij. Onvoorstelbaar dat Liggend op het grasveld van de van het continue raadsel over hier ooit het Girocircus zou camping of hangend aan de het vervolg van deze weg. kunnen neerstrijken. Maar in toog van de dorpskroeg: blijf Zelden nam ik zo’n spannende Italië kan alles. begeesterd praten over jouw weg met zoveel variatie Tip: neem na afloop, alvorens mooiste bergen. onderweg. je aan dat ijsje begint, beneden Forza! Tip: neem na afloop een birra in Cuneo een sprong in de alla spina van het merk Spluga. fontein, in gedachten met Anita PS1. Bronnen voor de Ekberg: la dolce vita! parameters over de bergen: 8. Colle del Nivolet (2612 Salite nel triveneto guida per il meter, Val d’Aosta) 10. Monte Zoncolan (1750 ciclista (Ediciclo, Vicenza, Start Locana, lengte 40 km, meter, Friuli) 1988), www.cyclingcols.com, hoogteverschil 2004 meter, Start Ovaro, lengte 9,7 km, www.cyclingnews.com maximum percentage 13% hoogteverschil 1225 meter, Beeldschone passage door een maximum percentage 22% PS2. Overige bergen die ik ook ongerept alpiene entourage. Treed toe tot het rijk der super- nog op lyrische wijze had Vaak verknallen stuwmeren het fietsgekken. “Voi che entrate, willen bezingen: landschap. Hier niet, zowel het lasciate ogni speranza”. Zo  Passo del Rombo Lago Agnel als het Lago Serru staat het in Dante’s La Divina  Colle di Sampeyre lijken met goddelijke hand te Comedia geschreven boven de  Tre Cime di Lavaredo zijn aangelegd. toegang tot de hel. “Gij die hier  Blockhaus di Marmotten liggen binnentreedt, laat alle hoop  Passo Giau onbekommerd sereen te slapen varen”. En dus hangt die tekst  in de berm. ook hier boven de weg.  Colle delle Finestre Net achter de top ligt een De dwaasheid ten top. 6  Campo Imperatore refugio met drank en kilometers á gemiddeld 14  Poggio di San Remo versnaperingen. In het weekend procent. Symbool van een is het hier poepiedruk (auto’s onmogelijke missie. Als je Een korte versie is verschenen met wandelaars voor het Parco sowieso boven komt, desnoods in tijdschrift De Wereldfietser, Nazionale ). te voet, ben je al een held. De no.4 2010. Vandaar de tip: ga op maandag. Voor una giornata particolare.

9. Santuario Sant’Anna di Vinadio (2010 meter, Piemonte) Start Vinádio, lengte 16 km, hoogteverschil 1136 meter, maximum percentage 13% In de Giro van 2001 zou hier de koninginne-etappe eindigen. Helaas, een dopingrazzia in San Remo deed de renners die

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Remarkable story marks the mountain passes, "I will not confess Mauro Repetti & what I've said all road '. Martin Kool On that sign I have placed on August 17, 2010 a memory plate . Last Year Mauro Repetti and Martin Kool had a I know that every cyclist make a photograph of the remarkable e-mail correspondence. pass as he is on top. I would love it if you make your picture of the MAIL 1: Passo del Mortirolo with the memory plate of Hans. Would like to mai me this picturel, because CIAO Martin he has never been far away and such a picture what is happen here ?? brings him close to me yet again here. i imagine a cyclist died...... but while he WAS My address is hans.milder @ ziggo.nl. Thanks a on the bike ?? lot, big, Leonie van de Pol PS = PLATE ON BOTTOM RIGHT ON MORTIROLO PLATE (MONNO SIDE) Do you mind if I sent here (Leonie van de Pol) your CIAO MAURO Mortirolo pictures and tell her about your challenge (25 times Mortirolo)? Groet,Martin Kool

MAIL 3:

Ciau Martin OH MY GOD, WHAT A STORY...... I HAVE THE CRYING EYES !!! YES, MARTIN, WRITE TO HER AND SEND HER ALL THE PHOTOS YOU DESIRE...... IF SHE AGREE THIS , I AM VERY HAPPY TO REMIND HER ...... AND I HOPE TO HELP HER IN SOME WAY TO STAY A LITTLE BETTER ...... LIFE IS CRUEL, BUT THIS IS...... IF WE CAN DO SOMETHING, ALSO A LITTLE THOUGHTS....WE HAVE TO DO IT MAIL 2: !! THANKS A LOT ...... MARTIN Ciao Mauro, TELL ME ABOUT ..... I did some research about Hans Milder (the sign on CIAO the Mortirolo sign). I MAURO found this on the forum of www.fiets.nl: (translated in English for you) After this Martin sent an e-mail to Leonie van de Pol. She contacted Mauro. Dear cyclists, Mauro dedicated his 25th Mortirolo climb to Hans On August 17, 2010 I got my husband, Hans Milder. He even climbed the Mortirolo in Hans’ Milder, commemorated on the Passo favorite cycling jersey. del Mortirolo. Hans was a great cyclist who rides all great achievement, as the Marmotte, Trois Ballons, Certification and Ötztal Alps on his name. Request: When your on the Mortirolo please make a On June 8, 2010 he died at the age of 54 from the picture of yourself and the Hans Milder effects of melanoma. memory plate. Until 2008 he was active as a cyclist and he Send the picture to [email protected] especially loved the Dolomites. On July 18, 2006 he was on the Passo del Mortirolo and said at the sign that

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BREVETTO DEL NERONE sluitstuk van de Koninginne choosing). It is done in the Giordano CASTAGNOLI etappe van de 100 jarige Giro. Marche region of Italy at the e-mail: De naastgelegen Catria en na time of your choice. Cyclists [email protected] 237 km de finish op de Petrano ascend Mt. Nerone from three volgden op de Nerone. Een different sides on the same day. Van een regionaal naar een warme en loodzware etappe die They (and their families, if they internationaal sport project gewonnen werd door Sastre en choose) can spend a day or two Ik, Giordano heb een grote die voor Menchov de basis enjoying the well-preserved passie voor de Monte Nerone. vormde voor zijn uiteindelijke countryside of Marche. De Monte Nerone is een zeer overwinning in Rome. Boven Since the inception of fraaie berg die per fiets via drie op de Nerone herinnert een “Brevetto del Nerone” 59 gevarieerde routes beklommen monument, veelal omringd people, including two women, kan worden. Het is mijn door paarden aan deze have met the challenge. ambitie om deze berg een grote bijzonder etappe. De Echte top Although this is very bekendheid te geven zowel bevindt zich daar echter nog .. satisfying, my ultimate goal is binnen Italië als ook m boven bij het Rai TV to see people from all over the wereldwijd . Voor wielrenners, Station. Hier treft u ook de world take up the challenge. randoneurs en fietstoeristen is gedenksteen aan Cima Bibi. het mogelijk het Brevet van de Brevetto del Monte Nerone Monte Nerone te behalen. Het “BREVETTO DEL da progetto sportivo nazionale Brevetto del Monte Nerone NERONE” ad internazionale kreeg in Italië landelijke From a national to an bekendheid in 2008 in het international sport project Ad Aprile 2008 è uscito su aprilnummer van Cicloturismo. “Brevetto del Nerone” is a Cicloturismo l’articolo In 2009 was de Nerone de bicycling challenge for riguardo il Brevetto del monte eerste van de drie Cols als individuals or a group (of your Nerone. La rivista Cicloturismo

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è rivolta soprattutto ad un [email protected] pubblico Italiano o di Italiani Nel 2009 con la presentazione mmet zijn vrouw een oude residenti all’estero, dato che è in inglese del Brevetto del Burgo gerestaureerd in de scritta solo in Italiano. Mio Nerone nella rivista BIG omgeving en met zicht op de obiettivo è quello di far Review non ho avuto un buon Nerone. De Burgo is conoscere il Monte Nerone non riscontro, gli unici a venire fino omgetoverd tot een Country solo in Italia ma anche in a tutto il 2010 sono stati solo House met 8 appartementen en Europa e nel Mondo, per cui lo italiani e 59 di loro hanno 28 slaapplaatsen en groot scopo del Brevetto del Nerone ottenuto il Brevetto (tra loro Zwembad è quello di attrarre in zona due donne). Come attrarre (www.capalazzo.com). cicloscalatori da ogni parte per ciclisti di altri paesi? Natuurlijk ging het wielervuur godersi la bellezza di questa A Gennaio 2010 il collega del bij hem weer branden zo aan de montagna scalandola in bici da BIG Roland Schuyer mi voet van deze schone berg. tre lati lo stesso giorno e segnala un articolo sul Nerone, Wijnand heeft me voorgesteld facendo vacanza in questo “una montagna sconosciuta, il aan Steven Rooks, een van de angolo incontaminato delle Mont Ventoux delle Marche”, grote Nederlandse wielrenners. Marche. apparso sulla rivista olandese Samen hebben we midden FIETS redatto dal giornalista (e september 2010 de Monte In de lente van 2009 kreeg het membro del BIG) Richard van Nerone beklommen. De berg Brevetto aandacht in BIG Ameijden. Ricevuto il die wat stijgingspercentage review, maar tot eind 2010 permesso dalla rivista Fiets, ho (9%) en lengte (13,5km) zoveel kwamen er vooral Italianen riportato l’articolo originale e overeenkomsten heeft met waarvan er 59 (waaronder 2 la mia traduzione sul sito del Stevens Alpe d'Huez. Het is dames) het Brevetto behaalden. Monte Nerone mogelijk met Steven aan een In Januari 2010 kreeg ik van www.montenerone.it . Nel clinic deel te nemen vanuit Ca' het Nederlandse BIG lid frattempo prendo contatto con Palazzo en natuurlijk zal de Roland Schuyer een artikel l’autore dell’articolo, Richard Nerone in het programma toegestuurd geschreven door che oltre a giornalista zitten. Richard van Ameijden over de accompagna come guida (www.stevenrooksnellemarche. Monte Nerone. “De Onbekende gruppi di ciclisti in vari luoghi com) Ik vertelde hen over BIG Berg, de Mont Ventoux van de d’Europa. Challenge en ook zij werden lid Marche”. Richard bleek ook lid van de BIG Club. Steven werd van de BIG familie en gids In Augustus 2010 kwam ik in VIP lid met nummer 3250. voor groepen fietstoeristen contact met Wijnand door heel Europa. Hij gaf me Luttikholt. Een fietsliefhebber In August 2010 I met Wijnand toestemming het artikel, die al weer bijna 15 jaar Luttikholt, a Dutch vertaald in het Italiaans op de nauwelijk op de fiets gezeten professional, who has restored website van de Nerone op te had. Hij heeft To: an old hamlet named Cà nemen.

How to attract cyclists from other countries? In January 2010, the Dutch BIG member, Roland Schuyer, sent me an article published in the FIETS review written by Richard van Ameijden. In it he described Monte Nerone as “an unknown mountain, the Mont Ventoux of Marche region“. After receiving permission to put this article on the web side of Monte Nerone , www.montenerone.it, with my translation in Italian, I began to correspond with Richard, the author of the article, who is member of BIG and guides groups of cyclists through Europe.

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Palazzo in the area of Nerone loro del BIG che non next year in May on occasion into 8 apartments conoscevano e li ho fatti of the “9 Colli” (9 Hills) ride to (www.capalazzo.com). In iscrivere alla nostra achieve “Brevetto del Nerone”. thanking him, I was introduced associazione. I’m interested to know if other to Steven Rooks , a Dutch Dutch cyclists will follow him champion. He and I climbed Richard is van plan in 2011 Le to achieve the “Brevetto” Monte Nerone together in Marche te bezoeken, eventueel while enjoying a vacation in September. Steven will take in combinatie met de 9 Colli en this countryside. groups of cyclists for bike rides zal dan natuurlijk il Brevetto through the mountains and del Nerone aan zijn programma In seguito sono apparsi vari valleys of Marche during their toe voegen. Ik hoop dat velen articoli sia sul sito del BIG che vacation at Cà Palazzo. I told van de Nederlandse en andere di BEONE a cura di Steven them about BIG and they Europese deelnemers aan de 9 Rooks, Daniel Gobert sul sito joined our association. Colli van de gelegenheid del BIG mentre Richard ha gebruik gaan maken om ook de composto un articolo sul Ad Agosto 2010 vengo a Nerone te beklimmen. De Brevetto del Nerone che è conoscere Wijnand Luttikholt, Nerone ligt er klaar voor, nu apparso sul sito della rivista un professionista olandese che jullie nog! Fiets il 22 Novembre. ha ristrutturato un borgo Cà A seguito di tutte queste Palazzo (www.capalazzo.com) Different articles on web sides iniziative, Richard ha promesso nella zona del Nerone have appeared following this di venire nelle Marche a ricavandone 8 appartamenti. meeting regarding “Brevetto conquistare il Brevetto del Grazie a lui ho conosciuto del Nerone”: Steven Rooks on Nerone l’anno prossimo a Steven Rooks, ed insieme the BEONE web side, Daniel Maggio in occasione della 9 siamo stati a metà Settembre a Gobert on the BIG web side, Colli, sono curioso di vedere se scalare il Nerone. Steven Richard van Ameijden on the anche tanti altri Olandesi lo accompagnerà gruppi di ciclisti FIETS web Side on 22 seguiranno in zona per che soggiornano a Cà Palazzo November. ottenere questo Brevetto e per escursioni nei monti e valli Following all those activities, godersi le vacanze di questo delle Marche. Ho parlato con Richard has promised to come luogo.

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Hoogtestage

Martin KOOL

Hoog

Jaren geleden tipte fietsvriend Philip Hul mij op het Val de Susa. Een dal in het noordwesten van Italië waar een paar schitterende uitdagingen lagen te wachten. Veel asfaltbeklimmingen maar ook onverhard MTB werk. We spraken af hier nog eens te gaan biken. Deze week was het zo ver. Op het laatste moment besloten we te gaan. Reden? De weersverwachtingen makkelijk omhoog. Het enige wolkendek en schijnt de zon. moesten goed zijn. Stabiel weer ongemak is het warme weer. De col is prachtig. Twee oude hadden we nodig en dat was Boven bij het stuwmeer pak ik Italianen met al even oude het! Op dinsdag 1200 kilometer 2 koude cola's om daarna een Italiaanse stalen bicicletta's op weg naar Oulx in de auto snelle afdaling over de soepel (o.a. een ) zijn over de gezeten. Dat was op zich al een lopende weg terug naar Susa te asfaltweg vanuit Fenestrelle prestatie. Oulx is een leuke maken. gekomen. Ze zetten ons op de kleine standplaats op 1100 foto en wijzen de weg naar de meter hoogte. Hotel Oberje dla Hoger Kamstraat. We dalen 4 Viere kan ik iedereen aanraden. kilometers om dan rechtsaf En voor een knappe pasta en Philip en zijn vader zijn deze legendarische oorlogsweg minstens zo knappe serveerster inmiddels ook in Oulx in te slaan. De weg is slecht en moet je bij Locus zijn. gearriveerd. In je eentje de klimt al snel weer stevig naar Woensdag 7-7 beklom Philip onverharde paden opzoeken in de 2500 meter. Daar ligt de de Nivolet. Deze nummer 1 uit het hooggebergte is vragen om Assietta col. Nergens komt het mijn lijstje beklom ik al in problemen. Samen is wel zo 36 kilometer lange pad onder 2009. Voor mij de gelegenheid veilig. Vandaag pakken we dan de 2200 meter. Aan de om de Colle Braida en ook de MTB om de Assietta linkerkant kijk je het Val MonCenisio (Mont Cenis) Kammstrasse te ronden. We Chisone in en rechts het Val de vanuit het Val de Susa te starten in Oulx en door het dal Susa. Nu zien we niks want we beklimmen. Voor de Braida zakken we licht af naar kijken neer op iets wat op een stapte ik in Avigliana op de Susa/Meana. Daar start de klim pak watten lijkt. Wij rijden nog fiets. De top op ruim 1000 naar de colle dell Finestre. De steeds in de zon en we gaan op meter hoogte was in 13 km eerste kilometers gaan nog over weg naar de andere collen: de bereikt. Mooi rustig ritje om er asfalt maar na het gehucht Colle Lauson 2497 meter, weer in te komen met Assiere (ik ontdek daar maar Colle Blegier 2381 meter, onderweg zicht op Sacra de één huis) wordt het steenslag Colle Bourget 2299 meter en San Michele. 's Middags naar en kuilen. In 2005 reden de de Colle Basser 2424 meter. Susa voor wat zwaarder werk. renners van de Giro hier met 25 Geen fietser komen we tegen. De MonCenisio stijgt nl in 25 mm bandjes overheen. Wel motorfietsen. Van die km zo'n 1600 meter. De eerste Ongelofelijk eigenlijk. De klim zware enduro gevallen en zelfs kilometers gaan vlak langs de loopt gelijkmatig om in 18 een zijspan. Het is hier voor de autostrada maar daarna wordt kilometer 1700 meter de liefhebber, van fietsen, bergen het een fraaie klim. Heel rustig stijgen. Bijgevolg een en natuurschoon een lustoord. voor een grenscol. Geen gemiddeld stijgingspercentage De afdaling naar Sestriere is vrachtverkeer, dat verkiest de van 9,2 procent. Het is bewolkt niet lang maar kost wel je Frejustunnel. Halverwege heb en we trappen door de vochtige polsen. Wat een hobbels. Maar je uitzicht op de laatste lucht/mist waarin veel zuurstof de laatste 25 kilometer over het serpentines die gemarkeerd zit met een heel klein verzetje asfalt terug naar Oulx zijn een worden door karakteristieke omhoog. Als we bijna bij de feest. Met een gemiddelde van hekwerken. Ongemerkt trap ik top zijn komen we boven het rond de 40/45 koersen we op

104 BIG Review 2011 huis aan. Onderweg bij Fenils keien. Het zicht op de is link. We zakken af en toe al kijken we even naar links. Daar omgeving maakt veel, zo niet diep weg en we zijn per slot spotten we de 8 batterias van alles goed. Wat een van rekening ver gekomen. We het fort op de 3100 meter hoge schoonheid. Langs het genieten nog van het uitzicht en Mont Chaberton. Daar willen stuwmeer vlakt de klim af om rijden terug. Het dalen, gisteren we zaterdag naar toe. daarna weer ongenadig nog wat onwennig, gaat al een Ontzagwekkend. omhoog te krullen. We komen stuk beter. Met reserve, dat in een komdal (Val de wel, gaan we toch stevig naar Hoogst Rochemolles) met de mooi beneden. Wat een klim!! gelegen Rifugio Camillo Toch maar niet Gek toch dat iemand met Scarfiotti. Tijd om daar even Het respect voor de Mont hoogtevrees gefascineerd, nee op te steken nemen we niet we Chaberton (3131 m) is zelfs geobsedeerd is door moeten nog een kleine 1000 gedurende ons verblijf alleen hoogte. Of misschien juist wel meter omhoog. Ook hier is het maar toegenomen. Deze reus daarom. Bovenop een weer rustig af en toe een motor stond voor vandaag op het keukentrapje breekt het en welgeteld één MTB-er. Als programma. Ja u leest het goed: klamme zweet me al uit. we achterom kijken zien we de "stond". Vanuit Fenils hebben Eenmaal in een beklimming kronkels waar net reden. Naar we de top kunnen zien. heb ik nergens last van. boven toe komt de sneeuw Onmetelijke ver weg maar toch Vandaag gingen we weer een steeds dichterbij. Het is bijna voor het grijpen. Je moet dan stap hoger. Hoog, hoger, half juli het zal toch wel lukken wel ruim 2000 hoogtemeters hoogst dus. De Sommeiller tot de top? De sneeuwvelden afleggen in 16 kilometer. Oh ja (BIG 679) komt net boven de liggen over de, langs de en dan is er geen wegdek. Af 3000 meter uit. Zo hoog was ik bergwand slingerende, weg. De en toe een pad en veel nog nooit met de fiets. Vanuit meeste kunnen we passeren klauter(loop)werk. Nee we Oulx gaat het vals plat omhoog maar uiteindelijk moeten we er besluiten om het niet te doen. naar Bardonecchia. Daar begint overheen. De eerste stukken En we hebben ook nog goede de klim. De eerste 7 kilometer zijn niet zo lang maar hoe smoezen: de weers- over een asfalttapijtje. Bij hoger hoe groter de velden. We verwachtingen zijn slecht, we Rochemolle tanken we nog blijven steken op 2986 zijn moe, zondagavond is de even bij en daarna begint ook hoogtemeters met de col voor WK-finale Nederland-Frankrijk het gehots en geknots over de het grijpen. Maar verder gaan en daarvoor willen we zeker op tijd thuis zijn en, en, en...... Het alternatief ziet er zo uit. Philip klimt naar Rifugio Barbara Lowrie (BIG 691). Ik besluit zaterdag al wat richting Holland te rijden en onderweg nog wat BIGgen te scoren. Ik stop in Aiguebelle en rijg de Grand Cucheron (BIG 278) aan mijn BIG-ketting. Het haalt het niet bij Val de Susa maar het Mauriennedal is ook prachtig. De klim begint mild maar de laatste 5 kilometer doen gewoon weer 9 procentjes. Na een lunch op een terrasje rijd ik door naar Bourg en Bresse. Daar ligt nog een "makkie", de Signal du Cuiron (BIG 240). Drie kilometer harken maar dan ben je al boven. In Bourg pak ik een hotelletje en zondag ben ik eind van de middag weer in "de Waard". Ruim op tijd voor de finale. En hoe dat ging weten we allemaal.

www.mkool.web-log.nl

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Bergop fietsen rond het Lago Maggiore en het Lago di Como. mooie afdaling die ongeveer tot Ornavasso naar Boden. Een Hans LUBBERS aan de voet van de San Martino niet zo lastige klim, maar kort del Culmine in Cuveglio voert. voor het einde van de klim is er Net zoals in 2009 hebben we De klim naar San Martino is een klein weggetje naar rechts: ook in 2010 onze vakantie ook een mooie: een erg smalle Alpe Rossonbolmo!. Ik kon de doorgebracht bij het Lago steile weg met af en toe een verleiding niet weerstaan, ik Maggiore en het Lago di mooi uitzicht en 17 had nog wat tijd over voor het Como. En net zoals in 2009 haarspeldbochten. Alleen de ontbijt en heb dus nog een stuk ging ook nu de racefiets weer kwaliteit van de weg was wat van die beklimming gedaan. mee. Want rond de meren minder. De klim kent 2 zware Die ging via een smalle, steile liggen verschillende mooie en stukken: een stuk van 3 km weg (maximaal 20 %) door het uitdagende beklimmingen. Zo halverwege de klim en de bos. Het wegdek viel me reuze had ik in 2009 al Il Mottarone allerlaatste km met een mee (volgens de VCO was de (BIG 733), Alpe Cheggio (BIG maximum van 21%. In Duno weg recentelijk opnieuw 730), Passo dello Stelvio (BIG verandert het karakter van de geasfalteerd). Met toch iets van 697) en Madonna del Ghisallo klim: van open vlakte naar bos spijt heb ik de fiets na ongeveer (BIG 741) beklommen. Dit jaar en van smal naar erg smal. Ook 1,5 km en 6 haarspeldbochten wilde ik daar de ontbrekende wordt de klim daar lastiger. De gekeerd. In totaal heb ik dus BIG’s in de regio aan voet van de Passo Cuvignone een kleine 4,5 km van de klim toevoegen, met uitzondering ligt in Cittiglio. In dat plaatsje gedaan. Volgens de van de Alpe Rossonbolmo is in een heel klein pand (ter beschrijving wordt de klim pas (BIG 731), omdat je die grootte van een huiskamer) het na 8 km heel erg zwaar! eigenlijk met een MTB moet museum van doen. Omdat de BIG’s moesten gevestigd. Ik ben daar Na 2 weken Lago Maggiore concurreren met de persoonlijk door een ging het naar het Lago di beklimmingen van de VCO (Le vrijwilliger van ruim 80 jaar, Como. De Monte Bisbino (BIG salite del VCO) en we die de familie Binda 738) lag aardig in de buurt van natuurlijk ook nog vakantie persoonlijk kende, rondgeleid. ons vakantieadres. Een leuke, wilden vieren met z’n allen, Een absolute aanrader! De regelmatige, goed lopende klim heb ik mij beperkt tot de BIG’s entree is gratis. (maximaal 15 %) waarop je in de min of meer nabije veel wielertoeristen tegen omgeving. Rond het Lago komt. In totaal telde de klim 33 Maggiore waren dat Cascata haarspeldbochten. De eerste 9 del Toce (BIG 732) en, aan de km zijn het mooiste, het overkant, Passo Cuvignone uitzicht op Cernobbio, Como (BIG 734) en San Martino en het Lago is af en toe (BIG 736). De Cascata del fantastisch. Daarna kom je in Toce is een onregelmatige klim het bos en de laatste 4 km over een brede maar rustige wordt de weg slechter. De top weg. De klim heeft 2 mooie is niet zo spannend: een grote wat steilere stukken met parkeerplaats. Niet echt in de meerdere haarspeldbochten. buurt waren de Passo del Het laatste stuk met uitzicht op Mortirolo (BIG 694) en de de waterval viel wat tegen. Le salite del VCO is een 28-tal Passo di Gavia (BIG 696), Helaas reed ik daar met minder beklimmingen verspreid over maar ik wilde toch heel erg mooi weer. De Passo de regio en variërend van graag na de Stelvio in 2009 het Cuvignone is een mooie en makkelijk tot extreem zwaar supertrio vanuit Bormio steile klim (maximaal 16 %) (Cortaccio: 6,6 km lang, volmaken. Dus in alle vroegte door het bos over een rustige, gemiddeld 12,9 % met een in de auto gestapt op weg naar smalle en goede weg met veel maximum van 20%). De Mazzo di Valtellina, want ik haarspeldbochten. Ik ging via meeste van die beklimmingen wilde wel de klassieke de andere kant weer naar zijn erg mooi en sommige staan beklimming doen. Speciaal beneden. Het eerste stuk van ook op de BIG-lijst (Il voor de Mortirolo had ik mijn die afdaling is de weg slecht, Mottarone, Alpe Cheggio en kleinste versnelling (30 * 27) na de Passo San Antonio wordt Cascata del Toce). Een van die achter de hand gehouden en de weg beter en is het een beklimmingen voert vanuit zodra ik die er na zo’n 5 km

106 BIG Review 2011 opgegooid had viel de de klim naar Colma, gemiddeld haarspeldbochten. Het stuk beklimming eigenlijk wel mee. 15,2 % en een maximum van door Sormano is ook mooi. De Na ruim 9 km vlakt de klim 23,5 %) wel aan. Eerst ging het Muro di Sormano ligt achter wat af en kon ik weer in alle vroegte met de veerboot Sormano en is erg steil (2 km opschakelen. De zwaarste naar Bellagio. Vanuit de haven lang en gemiddeld 15,2 %). Net stukken zitten in het eerste is het 50 meter rechtdoor en buiten Sormano zag ik rechts deel, dat vind ik zelf ook het vervolgens gaat het direct met een erg steile klim, die ben ik prettigste. Ik had een beetje op een paar mooie bochten scherp dus maar opgegaan. Maar al na reserve gereden, want de Gavia omhoog. Vervolgens klimt het 120 meter had ik geen grip stond ook nog op het geleidelijk door tot in Visgnola. meer door het gruis op de weg programma. Na de afdaling en Rechtdoor is de klassieke en het enorme na het maken van veel foto’s beklimming naar de Madonna. stijgingspercentage en ben ik (op de top en tijdens de Die had ik vorig jaar al gedaan, vliegensvlug afgestapt. Ik ben afdaling) ben ik weer in de auto deze keer wilde ik de nog een stukje doorgelopen, gestapt om naar Bormio te beklimming vanaf de andere maar de weg werd steeds rijden. Hier niet de klassieke kant doen. Dus ben ik daar slechter (kasseien) en smaller, beklimming, want de tocht naar linksaf gegaan en na een korte op een gegeven moment kwam Ponte di Legno was me te ver afdaling ging het langs de kust je zelfs lopend niet meer en het vooruitzicht van nog een en via Limonta en Oliveto verder. Dit kon de juiste weg zware beklimming trok me ook Lario naar Onno. In Onno start niet zijn. Dus teruggereden en niet zo erg. De beklimming van de oostelijke beklimming van aan een wandelaar gevraagd de Gavia is onregelmatig en tot de Madonna, een ‘Dove é il Muro?’. Nou, die aan Santa Caterina Valfurva onregelmatige klim. Het eerste was aan de andere kant van de niet bijzonder. Is dit nu de deel loopt het nog aardig weg, maar omdat de weg daar Gavia?. Na Santa Caterina omhoog met maximaal 12 % en eerst naar beneden loopt had ik wordt de beklimming mooier, een viertal haarspeldbochten, niet verwacht dat ik dat steiler (maximaal 19 %), maar van Valbrona tot Asso is weggetje moest hebben. Na een smaller en rustiger en vind je het relatief vlak. In Asso gaat korte afdaling stond ik aan de een tiental mooie het rechtsaf richting Madonna voet van de Muro. Met de haarspeldbochten op je weg. en komen de zuidelijke en de kleinste versnelling weer Het laatste stuk, met prachtige oostelijke klim bij elkaar. Na geschakeld ging het op weg vergezichten en diepe een kort stuk dat licht omhoog naar de top. Het is een smal afgronden is fantastisch en niet loopt volgt Maglio, hier gaat maar goed geasfalteerd meer zwaar. Hoewel lang niet het linksaf richting Sormano weggetje, afgesloten voor het zo steil als de Mortirolo heb ik voor de Colma di Sormano. overige verkeer. De weg is op de zwaarste stukken toch Het eerste stuk naar Sormano is beschreven met allerlei nog maar een paar keer de mooi: een vrij steile maar informatie, zoals de te hanteren kleinste versnelling opgelegd. lekkere lopende klim verzetten, de winnaars van de Op de top is niet veel te (maximaal 14%) over een Rondes van Lombardije waar beleven en het was er goede, vrij brede maar niet de Muro in opgenomen was, behoorlijk koud. Omdat ik toch drukke weg met in totaal 11 inclusief de klimtijd van de wel moe was na 2 grote beklimmingen ben ik snel weer afgedaald.

De Madonna del Ghisallo had ik in 2009 al gedaan, maar de Colma di Sormano was nieuw toegevoegd aan de BIG-lijst en omdat ik in de plaatselijke krant had gelezen dat die vrijdag een regenboogtrui zou schenken aan de Madonna del Ghisallo en aan het wielrenmuseum er naast, besloot ik een leuk tochtje te maken naar de Colma en de Madonna. Na de Mortirolo durfde ik de Muro di Sormano (het laatste stuk van

107 BIG Review 2011 winnaar, en nog veel meer. Zo ben direct legde ik ‘ongemerkt’ de eerste doorgereden 800 meter af. Na enige tijd naar Maglio, kreeg ik in de gaten dat de omdat ik cijfers op de weg de hoogte natuurlijk op aangaven. Daar waar de cijfers tijd bij de dicht bij elkaar stonden was het Madonna del het steilste. En die stonden Ghisallo moest soms erg dicht bij elkaar! Bij zijn voor de een steelse blik op de ceremonie. De fietscomputer zag in opeens dat rest van de deze 30% (!) aangaf. Dat afdaling liep betekende dat ik het steilste erg soepel, stuk waarschijnlijk al gehad maar het laatste had, omdat de computer de stuk van Maglio omhoog naar Cadel door een aantal stijgingspercentages met een de Madonna, ongeveer 6,5 km, journalisten ondervraagd. kleine vertraging aangeeft. En loopt het af en toe noch steil Gelukkig had hij na afloop ook trouwens ook zo’n 2 à 3 omhoog (maximaal 16%). Het nog even tijd om met mij op de procent te hoog, maar even was een brede en drukke weg foto te gaan. Zijn vrouw Chiara goed blijft er dan nog zo’n 27% en door de inspanningen van was zo vriendelijk die foto te over. Ik hoopte dat het vanaf kort daarvoor viel die laatste nemen. Na ook in het museum dat punt wat makkelijker zou hobbel me nog vies tegen. Ook nog de nodige foto’s genomen worden, maar dat viel tegen. omdat er een behoorlijke te hebben en wat boeken Het bleef steil en de tegenwind stond. En ik had ook gekocht te hebben ging het inspanningen begonnen zo nog haast. Iets te laat kwam ik bergaf richting Bellagio en de langzamerhand hun tol te eisen. aan bij de Madonna. Het was al veerboot. Onderweg ging het Ik reed echt van hoogtemeter lekker druk. Ik had net mijn ook nog een paar keer weer tot hoogtemeter, de meeste tijd fiets weggezet toen Cadel en omhoog, en met een tas met 5 op het uiterste puntje van het zijn gevolg er aan kwamen kilo aan boeken achter mijn zadel en af en toe staand op de lopen. Er volgden wat wielershirt viel dat nog best pedalen. Eerst maar eens speeches, Cadel bood zijn tegen. Na een enerverende dag voorbij de 1.000 meter. Op regenboogtrui aan en moest boordevol wielerhistorie kwam welke hoogte lag de top ook al tenslotte zijn handen in een bak ik weer aan in de haven van weer? Weer 10 hoogtemeters klei duwen om een handafdruk Bellagio en bracht de boot mij erbij. Op naar de 1.050 meter, te maken. Terwijl Cadel naar weer terug naar Cadenabbia. dan zal ik er wel bijna zijn. het museum ging heb ik wat Een klein stukje langs het meer Misschien na die bocht? Nee, foto’s gemaakt in de kapel. en nog eenmaal een kort stukje nog een lang en steil stuk. Op Korte tijd later ben ik ook het van 18% omhoog en ik was naar de 1.100 meter. Een paar museum in gegaan. Daar werd weer veilig terug op mijn keer dacht ik ‘nu moet het niet een volgende regenboogtrui vakantieadres. steiler worden, anders …’. Op aangeboden. Vervolgens werd een gegeven moment duikt rechts boven je een weg op en nader je slagbomen, op dat moment wordt de klim ‘gewoon’ steil maar dat voelt heerlijk. De laatste 200 meter is een peuleschil. Na 1,82 km. kom je terug op de grote weg en 70 meter verder is de top. De klim is schitterend, maar de top stelt niet veel voor. Gelukkig staat er nog wel een streep over de weg en staat er hier en daar een gedenkteken. Al remmend ging het daarna langzaam naar beneden. Af en toe een foto maken en af en toe, als er even geen bochten waren, met volle snelheid. Ik

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Northern Italy July 2010 hours cycling and 5 hours Kevin SPEED I asked about a bike shop and driving, starting off at 08.00 relieved to be told there was and finishing at 21.00. this was Friday 2nd July 2010 one nearby just north of the my average time each day. village called Rasmussin 600 Holmes Chapel to Lazise, Lago metres to the north. He was just Sunday 4th July 2010 di Garda opening as I got there at 10.00 – great! He fixed the chain with Torbole to Carzano near Holmes Chapel London Euston a new link and also put my bike Strigno then to Gatwick Airport. I back together. He said my queued up for the very long handlebars were too high for To Rovereto this morning then process and knew how cattle climbing the hills but they’re south east and parked at Ráossi must feel waiting to be milked what I’m used to. Half an hour for a 9km climb slowly through – it took ¾ of an hour to get the and 5€ euros less later, I Piano (aptly named) to Pian di bike and rucksack checked in. bundled the bike back in the Fugazze and a much needed The Easyjet flight took 1 hour car and headed for my first café on the right then a turning 37 minutes to reach Milan, a BIG of the tour, Passo di to the right straight after that, shorter time than being Telegrafo, number 747. My along here for about a processed at Gatwick. It was gearing wasn’t right I kilometre then off to the left on 30°C in Milan we were told by discovered. I hadn’t screwed a gradual climb away from this the pilot and we would pass the gear changer back into the road at a slight tangent then up over Bognor, Paris, Dijon and frame the whole way resulting through woods that gave way Turin. Went for the hire car in the chain not being able to to glorious scenery across to from Europcar, cost 351€ and move to the top ring. It was a the right (west) of the mountain 50€ extra as I was driving from struggle to get up and soon chain. There were many Milan to Rome with it. The car fixed this for the next pass. It walkers along this quiet narrow was a Fiat Panda. I loaded up was very steep and hot but a lane and after 6 kilometres the bike, still in the bag and narrow quiet road up. Later I gradually leading up to Passo drove out to Rivolta on a minor drove on the north end of the di Campogrosso, BIG number road as I couldn’t find another lake to Torbolo then along the 729, and the buildings at the road heading east. Eventually Rovereto road but only as far top. Here are a couple of very this led to Brescia (bypassed) as Nago above the lake then nice white stone cafes and a and along the south shore of took a right but this was very hotel and there was an open air Lake Garda to Pescharia then hard to find and at first took a Catholic service going on when up the east side of the lake to road for Molo – and came back I reached there – also a Lazise. It was about 20.00 so to the Rovereto road again. barbecue but I couldn’t get a needed to find somewhere to Eventually I find the road for look in even though I tried! I stay. After unloading I tried to Passo di Nago, BIG 746. From carried on up the pass, now put the bike together and there back to Torbole and much narrower and quieter off discovered the chain was all across to Riva and the road for to the left and reached the ravelled up. A German guy Storo and off to the left for highest point at a stone house offered to help. He’d just Tremalzo, BIG number 748. I to the left that was also a finished his meal and was also parked at the pub at the bottom simple pub. Just before this I on a cycling holiday and had and enjoyed the ride through placed the BIG sticker on a all the tools. We took my chain the woods to the clearing at the light blue sign with a view of apart but the rivet came out and top where there were plenty of Pasubio Mountain in the couldn’t get it back in again so other cyclists. From Storo I background. It was here where it was a bike shop job in the cycled up Rifugio di Alpo, BIG there was fierce fighting in the morning. I was really pleased number 744 to the Alpi at the 1st World War between Italians with his effort and offered to top where there are a group of and Austrians. I almost took buy him a drink. He told me houses after the Bondone the wrong turning as I started a there was a bike shop in wooden sign. I drove back to descent south for Recoaro in Pescharia but not sure where it Riva and on to Torbole and error. I walked the bike back up was in the town. stayed the night at a hotel close as it was too steep to get back to the roundabout for the road on from a standing start. Back Saturday 3rd July 2010 up to Rovereto. Each pass took down to Pian di Fugazze the Lazise to Torbole, Lago di approx 2 hours to climb and same way then to the right a Garda back down making the day 8 short way then commenced the

109 BIG Review 2011 stony climb up to Passo Porte enquired and was directed to it, and back for the car at Casere di Pasubio, BIG number 728. it wasn’t obvious but then came back over the top of This surface is of white gravel eventually there with an hour Monte Grappe and down to and was very slow progress. of daylight left. Bassano di Grappe – which I Back down later to the car and didn’t want to do but the spotted the church embedded in Monday 5th July 2010 undercarriage hit a small rock the rock to the left called on the road near the top and Columbia so stopped for Carzano near Strigno to Villa water was dripping out. I photos. From there back into Santina (Tolmezzo) feared the worst and drove fast Rovereto then took the road down the south side of the pass heading for Passo Coe, BIG I left the car here and biked up to look for a garage in the town number 743 from Calliano and the Manghen Pass, BIG below. They were all closed, through Folgaria. There’s a number 707 on a wonderful petrol self service only. I put a castle at the bottom of the pass, sunny morning. Most of the finger to the drip and tasted it. I an open space at the top of the way up is wooded and a was relieved to find it was pass. On the left further along clearing at top shared with few water and not petrol escaping. at the top past the height pass motor bikers at the small From here along the main road marker plate where I placed the summit. There’s no building up to Tonini and took a right BIG sticker are a couple of there but there is plate facing through the tunnel – so glad I wood cafes. I gave it a miss south on which I placed the wasn’t cycling this. I drove on and rode back down the pass to BIG sticker then did an about to Feltre and had the leak the roundabout at Folgaria turn and back down the pass. In checked out a garage at about where I left the car. It’s a the car from Carzano to Casere 4.30. The mechanic told me it confusing meeting of roads at on the way up to Monte was no problem, it was only air this point. Back down to Grappe, BIG number 727. I had pressure. From Feltre to Sedico Rovereto and headed north for to take it easy going up here as and took the quieter road north the turn off for Nomi then the road is narrow with well on the way to the Dolomites. I followed by the side of the overgrown tall hedges on both parked at Veran just south of motorway to Aldeno then left sides. About 2 kilometres from Agordo and cycled the Passo the car at Garniga to tackle the the top the clearing was Duran, BIG number 717 and wooded road up to the wooden reached and I came to the stone later over the Passo Cibiana, buildings and large beer hut fort on the side of the hill the BIG number 718, before the road junction then to round the side of the mountain Over to BIG 726 then down the the right and a gradual up on a for a gradual climb up and main road to Bassano. Left at wider road to the top of the over. At the top I took the road Sedico for the road north to the Bondone, BIG number 706. to the right that is partly gravel Dolomites. From Agordo went This can be seen from the road but OK to ride. It was about 3 over the Duran Pass and junction and just round that kilometres and I reached a Cibiana Pass, put stickers on bend to the right suddenly better surface at a point near each. There is a faded one appears the ski resort of Palon Cima di Mandria then along to already on the Cibiana summit at the top of the pass. An added Monte Tomba, BIG number plate. From there along to attraction that day was Formula 726 but actually downhill at Tolmezzo looking for 1 racing cars parked at the road this point. From there I retraced accommodation. None found summit plate. I placed a BIG sticker there. There had been a race earlier in the day up to the top of the pass from Sardegna near Trento. In Trento I drove along the Padua road as far as Borgo. I looked for somewhere to stay the night but there was nowhere so drove to Telve at the south foot of Passo Manghen but it was too late in the day to think of cycling up there. I saw a sign in Telve indicating a pension ‘La Rose’ so followed the sign. The narrow lane took me down to Carzano, a kilometre away. I

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Cima di Laveredo, BIG number 719. The road doesn’t really get steep but ends ingloriously at a car park. It’s a fantastic viewpoint of the mountains and across the valley. I met other cyclists at the top, one especially as he was Spanish so I could share our experiences of the Valeta and l’Angliru. Back down to the car and on to the Dolomites through Cortina to the Grand Sella. I stopped off at Passo Falzarego to take in the view from the white chapel and also later at Passo Pordoi to take photos of the cyclist board and the cross in the field with the Dolomite ridge as a backdrop. From her I took a right and parked at the first lay-by to cycle Passo di Grand Sella, BIG number 712 that is considered the archetypical Dolomite pass – but I think the Cima di Laveredo is even though it’s not in the centre of the Dolomite range. At the top a girl cyclist kindly took my photos and I hers and I really so drove back to Villa Santina. negotiating cattle coming down must stop this parting kissing I found an albergo on the right the road. There was even one and cuddling when away from just past the roundabout. cow in the tunnel so had to wait home. I bought a 2011 calendar until she ambled out looking of the Dolomites and a cowbell Tuesday 6th July 2010 for the best grass. At the top to join the others at home. Villa Santina to Mendel Pass there are two ways to go. The From here down to Canazei way down is the road to the left and Ronch for the last BIG numbers 720 and 721. I as the road to the right soon Dolomite conquest before left the car at Povolaro at a peters out to grass. I went back heading west. It was about six small white tower decked with the same way to return to the kilometres up to Rifuge cycling motifs. The way up to car. From there back to Villa Gardéccia, BIG number 708 Zoncalon is extremely steep all Santina and Tolmezzo then with very steep sections in the the way up but one good aspect north to Paluzza then Ligosullo centre of the climb and at the of the climb is the covering of where I parked the car for the end which nearly finished me the trees all the way up except climb up to Monte Paularo. off! Back to the car and from for the final kilometre. The I’ve cycled this road over to there drove through Bolzano to road is narrow but it’s a good Paularo village many years ago Mendel Pass and stayed the surface. It’s a very interesting and on to Pontebba over Cason night here at the only hotel. climb with many photos on di Lanza. Back to the car, I educated the Italian bartender boards of Giro d’Italia cyclists Tolmezzo, Ampezzo, Passo di on what ‘chips’ really meant in every few metres. I must admit Mauria (also cycled many England! to having to walk much of the years ago) and headed north for way so it took me two hours to the Dolomites from Lozzo. get up there. Near the top there Auronzo is very much a tourist Read the whole North Italian is a tunnel and just before it a town, especially for winter story of Kevin Speed on: great view to the right, back skiing. At Col di Varda I took a down the valley. Through the right and entered Misurina and http://www.kevinspeed.com/pie tunnel the road continues up for took a right and parked the car monte_lombardy_veneto_italy_ about another two kilometres at a pub on the right and cycled july_2010 and the final hairpins through the toll gates and up to

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Mille chilometri in tre giorni. accompagnarci lungo un bel nei lunghissimi rettilinei di cui Pedalando per vigneti intorno tratto della sua provincia. non vediamo la fine. Gabrio, alla Val Padana L'incontro a Suzzara è un po' alla sua prima esperienza in difficoltoso, ma per fortuna ci notturna, sembra un po' teso e Luigi CANDELLI sono i cellulari che ci aiutano, e taciturno. In realtà è così possiamo sfruttare il suo preoccupato perchè gli si sta Quest'anno, in una ideale traino per quasi 60 km. riacutizzando un dolore al marcia di avvicinamento alla Arriviamo sul Mincio quando ginocchio dx che sperava di PBP del 2011, mi sono posto ormai fa sera e la presenza di avere debellato nei mesi scorsi. l'obiettivo di percorrere 1000 Enrico è utilissima per trovare Rallentiamo un po' il ritmo, Km in tre giorni, per verificare le ciclabili del Parco del ma dopo quasi 190 km, a la tenuta fisica e psicologica. Mincio, a lui ben note, al Manerbio, alle 2,30 della notte, (Foto n1) sicuro dal traffico decide di fermarsi per non automobilistico che di notte peggiorare la situazione. Siamo costituisce un pericolo ancora disorientati, non sappiamo che maggiore del solito. Siamo in decisione prendere: ci dispiace ritardo sulla tabella prevista e il lasciare solo l'amico, nel cuore gran caldo e l'elevatissima della notte, ma non sembra umidità, che ci opprimerà esserci altra soluzione. Per di Ho trovato subito tre anche durante tutta la notte, più quest'anno non abbiamo entusiasti compagni di viaggio, non ci permetterà nessun neppure l'auto appoggio, che tutti soci del BIG, in Alberto recupero. Raggiungiamo sarebbe stata utilissima in Simoni e Carmine Moccia, che Borghetto sul Mincio verso le questo caso. Rientrerà mi avevano già accompagnato 22,30 e qui dopo una breve comunque a Modena in lo scorso anno nella Tirreno- sosta per un caffè stimolante, mattinata utilizzando il treno. Adriatico, e in Gabrio salutiamo e ringraziamo Rimaniano in tre e dobbiamo Spapperi, new entry, che da Enrico, nostro Virgilio nelle proseguire: oggi abbiamo Città di Castello è venuto fino a tenebre mantovane, che deve ancora poco meno di 300 km Modena per unirsi a noi. (F.2) rientrare. da pedalare. Gabrio ci sarà E' stato bello averlo avuto con comunque vicino e lo noi e aver sentito la sua sentiremo con noi grazie alle condivisione alla nostra frequenti telefonate. impresa. Grazie ancora L'itinerario che ho preparato Enrico.(F.3) prevede il passaggio da Soncino, provincia di Cremona, per potere vedere, almeno fugacemente, la bella Rocca Sforzesca che è il vanto del paese. Per fortuna la Rocca è Siamo partiti Venerdi 1 ben illuminata e questo ci Luglio, da Piazza Grande, alle consente di fare qualche bella foto. Aggiriamo Crema e 18, dopo la ormai tradizionale e beneaugurale benedizione da Riprendiamo a pedalare in puntiamo su Lodi. Comincia a parte del Vicario Mons. direzione del Lago di Garda far giorno e possiamo spegnere Losavio. incontrando le prime difficoltà le luci e toglierci le bande La prima tappa di questa altimetriche costituite dalle catarifrangenti. lunga randonèe, che colline moreniche del Garda Attraversiamo l'Adda ed compiremo in assoluta che, con continui saliscendi, entriamo in Lodi e ci fermiano autonomia con un bagaglio rallentano notevolmente la subito in un bar appena aperto. minimalista, prevede un ampio marcia. Attaversiamo paesi resi La barista, quando sente che giro tutt'intorno alla pianura famosi dalle battaglie del siamo partiti quasi 12 ore prima Padana per arrivare ad Alba nostro Risorgimento come da Modena, ci da dei matti. E' dopo ben 480 km. Monzambano, San Martino, un classico e ci siamo ormai A Suzzara, poco prima del Solferino. E il prossimo anno abituati. fiume Po, abbiamo sarà il 150° anniversario Prossima sosta Pavia. Il appuntamento con l'amico dell'Unità d'Italia!!! traffico purtroppo sta Enrico Alberini, che da Ci diamo il cambio aumentando come la Mantova mi ha promesso di regolarmente, nella calda notte, temperatura e questo rende la

112 BIG Review 2011 nostra fatica più dura da impegnative per quanto liguri pubblicata da Ediciclo) e sopportare. Attraversiamo il riguarda il dislivello. continua a salutare ciclisti che Ticino sul bel ponte coperto e Dopo una doccia ristoratrice incrociamo e che lo ci tuffiamo nella piatta e ed una passeggiata defatigante riconoscono. verdissima Lomellina. Risaie a per il centro di Alba, siamo di Alle 12 arriviamo, puntuali, a perdita d'occhio. nuovo tutti in forma ed una Sassello, famosa per i suoi Carbonara abbondante ed una amaretti, dove ci sta aspettando Fiorentina al sangue rimettono Marco Guzzinati che, insieme a posto anche il malandato ai suoi amici Mario e Paolo di intestino di Alberto. Possiamo Gavi, ci accompagnerà per più addormentarci tranquilli di 90 km dando il cambio a nonostante la musica ed il Gabriele che deve rientrare a frastuono che si sentono nella Varazze. Tante grazie anche a animate strade di Alba. te Gabriele. Sabato 3 Luglio Ho previsto un'altra breve sosta Alle 5,15 di siamo di nuovo tecnico-culturale a Lomello per in sella per affrontare la poter ammirare la bellissima seconda tappa che inizia subito Basilica romanica di Santa in salita sulle stupende colline Maria Maggiore e l'annesso delle Langhe. Fortunatamente Battistero. Alberto è in gran forma e non Sono già passate le 11 quando risente minimamente della crisi arriviamo a Casale Monferrato, del giorno prima. Il sole, dopo 360 Km, sulle rive del Po appena sorto, illumina con una e siamo abbastanza affamati. luce dolcissima i famosi vigneti Con ben tre gregari a nostra Ci concediamo una sosta di una di Barolo, La Morra, Monforte disposizione scendiamo oretta per farci una buonissima d'Alba e Dogliani. Non c'è velocemente verso Acqui pizza che ci ritempra le forze. un'anima in giro e noi Terme dove entriamo in centro Ripartiamo verso mezzogiorno possiamo goderci questo storico per potere ammirare sotto un sole impietoso e dopo spettacolo della natura in “La Bollente”, la famosa fonte tanta pianura ritroviamo le esclusiva. dove sgorga, a 75°, l'acqua salite. A dire il vero sono le termale che ha reso famosa dolci colline che costeggiano il questa cittadina. Po, ma le condizioni climatiche Finita la discesa ricomicia la ce le fanno sembrare vere tortura di continui saliscendi montagne. sulle belle colline dell'Alto Dobbiamo fermarci più Monferrato tra le valle del frequentemente per dissetarci e Bormida e dell'Orba Anche oggi abbiamo importanti recuperare le energie. Poco punteggiate da paesini, oguno appuntamenti con altri amici prima di Asti Alberto avverte con il proprio bel castello, ma del BIG che simpaticamente ci un serio problema intestinale con strappi a volte a doppia hanno garantito la loro dovuto, probabilmente, ad una cifra. presenza e ci accompagneranno bevanda ghiacciata bevuta Ma è a Gavi che Marco ci ha nel nostro lungo viaggio. troppo rapidamente. riservato una graditissima Il primo è fissato a Nonostante una prolungata sorpresa. Ci invita ad una sosta Montezemolo, dove ci viene sosta non accenna a riprendersi a casa sua dove Simona, la sua incontro Gabriele Brunetti, che per cui decidiamo di accettare “illuminata” moglie, ci ha si è mosso dalla sua Varazze, e un passaggio fino ad Alba da preparato un “ristoro” con i che ci guiderà fino a Sassello parte di gentilissimi volontari fiocchi. Grazie mille Simona. per più di 50 Km. facendoci della CRI in servizio in un Rimettersi in sella, dopo la apprezzare il centro storico di piccolo paese del Monferrato. lauta merenda, è dura, ma sono Millesimo e preparandoci Ci “perdiamo” una lunga già le 16,30 e abbiamo ancora spiritualmente alle dure rampe discesa ed una trentina di 90 km, con molta salita, per di Montenotte superiore e al chilometri di pianura. Ma il arrivare a Cavi di Lavagna, più facile Colle del Giovo. E' più, oggi, l'avevamo già fatto. sede di tappa. bello ritrovarsi con lui dopo il Siamo naturalmente Scaliamo il Passo della recente Giro in Olanda e Belgio preoccupati per la seconda e Castagnola per scendere a fatto insieme in Aprile. terza tappa, che seppur più Busalla dove salutiamo e Gabriele è di casa su queste corte sono notevolmente più ringraziamo Marco e i suoi strade, (è autore, fra l'altro di amici che rientrano a casa. una ottima guida delle strade Anche la loro presenza ci ha

113 BIG Review 2011 aiutato tanto nella nostra pazientemente aspettando: si no, è proprio lei. Baci e impresa. tratta infatti del Passo di Santa abbracci. Beviamo Iniziamo a salire Donna. Quale nome più abbondantemente, riempiamo l'interminabile, anche se facile, appropriato per loro che le borraccie e ripartiamo per gli valle Scrivia fino al Passo della devono sopportare le nostre ultimi 40 Km. Scoffera. Sono già le 19,30 e assenze!!! Scendiamo per A Scandiano non trascuriamo dobbiamo fare ancora 45 Km. superare il Torrente Ceno e poi di passare davanti alla E' meglio telefonare in Albergo iniziare la lunga salita che ci magnifica Rocca dove nacque per rassicurarli che stiamo porterà al Passo del Pelizzone, nel '400 il poeta Matteo Mattia arrivando. In discesa Alberto è dopo una opportuna sosta a Boiardo. L'ultima sorpresa di scatenato; dobbiamo chiedergli Bardi di fianco al maestoso questa nostra fantastica di rallentare!!!! galoppata l'abbiamo dopo Arriviamo a Cavi di Lavagna Sassuolo dove ci attendono in che sono quasi le 21. Qualche bici due amici di Carmine del difficoltà a trovare prima DLF, Tonino e Franca, che con l'Hotel prenotato poi, dato che energiche trenate ci pilotano è sabato sera, un ristorante con fino a Modena. Un grazie un tavolo libero. Alla fine anche a loro. E alle 19,30, in facciamo comunque una ottima perfetto orario, entriamo in cena a base di pesce poi subito Piazza Grande dove Loretta nel a letto. frattempo ci ha preceduto ed ha preparato per noi un Domenica 4 Luglio. castello che domina tutta la graditissimo party con crostate, Partiamo alle 5,30 cercando di vallata. Altri modesti dislivelli torta salata, coca e spumante. approfittare delle ore più ci attendono, ma ormai il più è E' davvero finita e ce l'abbiamo fresche: sappiamo cosa ci fatto e verso le 16 siamo a fatta. Possiamo ora guardare aspetterà da mezzogiorno in Fornovo Taro. con una certa tranquillità alla poi. Anche oggi tanti Abbiamo già percorso 150 Paris-Brest-Paris del 2011 e chilometri, tanta salita e Km e ne mancano ancora un della quale, se non vi siete tantissimo caldo. Superiamo di centinaio scarsi. Il traffico annoiati, mi auguro di potervi slancio Sestri Levante ancora domenicale si sta fare un ampio resoconto il intensificando ed è abbastanza prossimo anno. (F. 11) fastidioso e anche la calura non concede sconti. Siamo tutti concentrati nell'individuare le fontanine per rinfrescarci. A Felino, paese famoso per i suoi salami, ci concediamo un sosta addormentata, e iniziamo la in un bar, ma prima salita, il Colle di Velva, abbiamo l'occhio un colle inedito per tutti noi. sull'orologio: Pedaliamo in scioltezza e in vorremmo arrivare discesa, nel bosco, fa prima delle 20. addirittura freddo. Questa dovrebbe Dopo Varese Ligure la strada essere l'ultima sosta si impenna nuovamente per prima dell'arrivo a scollinare alla Cima Coppi del Modena, ma nostro Giro e cioè il Passo di Carmine, dopo una Cento Croci, m.1055 con telefonata con sua bellissime vedute sulle praterie moglie, ci comunica di crinale. che Loretta ci sta C'è già molta animazione venendo incontro in quando arriviamo a Borgo Val auto con una ampia di Taro poco dopo le 10 e, scelta di bevande dopo una ennesima sosta ad fresche. una fontanina, iniziamo la terza E ad Albinea la salita di giornata che vediamo che ci sta dedichiamo alle nostre aspettando. Sembra rispettive mogli che ci stanno un miraggio. Invece

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3 IRON BIG Most of my bike activity this Il 3 Luglio salgo al Nerone a Giordano CASTAGNOLI year has been dedicated to 46 km da Città di Castello e mi reaching 3 IRONBIG in order ritornano in mente le parole di Come attività ciclistica l’anno to honor the 25° anniversary of Enrico Alberini quando ci 2010 è stato dedicato buona BIG association. siamo incontrati il 21 Marzo parte alla conquista di 3 BIG 771 Bocca Trabaria - The per il BIG DAY al passo della IRONBIG per festeggiare al 16th of January was my first Futa: “ perché non fai meglio i 25 anni ascent up to the top (1049 l’IRONBIG Monte Nerone, dell’associazione BIG. m.a.s.l.), the nearest BIG from dato che hai ideato il Brevetto Ho iniziato subito il 16 Città di Castello where I live, del Nerone?” Allora gli risposi Gennaio con la prima scalata approx. 30 km away. The long che il Nerone, essendo alto del BIG 771 Bocca Trabaria winter didn’t permit me to 1500 m, in primavera non è (1049 m di altezza) quello più climb except two times, with praticabile per via della neve, vicino a ca. 30 km da Città di snow and ice (see photo). Not per quello avevo scelto Bocca Castello dove abito. Il lungo until the beginning of April Trabaria ad inizio stagione inverno non ha permesso di could I seriously begin to come IRONBIG. Scatta la salire di nuovo se non due volte climb. To complete the molla e chiedo a Daniel di con neve e ghiaccio (vedi foto) foreseen 25 assents of the poter tentare il mio 2° solo da aprile si è iniziato a IRONBIG I had to arrive on IRONBIG, il Nerone dopo fare sul serio ma per the 9th of June. Different times Bocca Trabaria e lui l’approva completare le 25 volte sono during the same morning, I first entusiasta. Tra Luglio e arrivato al 9 Giugno per di più ascended the Umbrian-side, Agosto mi dedico varie volte nella stessa then descended to San Angelo assiduamente alle scalate del mattinata scalando il versante in Vado (Marche region) and Monte Nerone da tutti e tre i umbro, scendendo fino a San returned to Città di Castello, versanti, per la Festa della Angelo in Vado e poi risalendo ascending Bocca Trabaria from Montagna il 18 Luglio due Bocca Trabaria dal versante the Marche-side. versanti lo stesso giorno con marchigiano. Amilcare Monelletta che ne ha BIG 795 Monte Nerone fatti tre, avendo così diritto ad

115 BIG Review 2011 un nuovo “Brevetto del reaching my second IRONBIG. richieste dall’IRONBIG, Nerone”. il 28 Agosto termino impresa non facile per via del le 25 scalate al Monte Nerone BIG 770 SANTUARIO LA tempo ristretto (lavoro nel conquistando il mio 2° VERNA pomeriggio e la mattina si fa Ironbig. Avendo ancora due mesi a giorno sempre più tardi). Devo disposizione chiedo a Daniel di approfittare del sabato libero On July 3rd, while I ascended poter tentare il 3° IRONBIG, (quando fa bel tempo!) per Monte Nerone, 46 km away questa volta in Toscana, il effettuare anche tre scalate in from Città di Castello, the Santuario La Verna a 1128 m. un giorno (il 2 ottobre). L’8 words of Enrico Alberini came di altezza a 55 km da Città di Ottobre porto a termine il mio to mind when we met at Passo Castello. 3° Ironbig. della Futa on occasion of BIG- La Verna è un santuario Day on March 21st. “Why francescano molto noto in Italia Having still two months didn’t you choose IRONBIG centrale, meta di tanti visitatori available to bike, I asked Monte Nerone when you tutto l’anno. Daniel permission to attempt created the Brevetto del Per effettuare il 3° Ironbig my 3th IRONBIG, Santuario Nerone?” At that time my devo raggiungere Pieve S. La Verna, located in Tuscany answer was: “Monte Nerone is Stefano in auto dove inizia la 1128 m.a.s.l. , approx 55 km 1500 m high, and in spring it is salita e da lì salire per il Passo away from Città di Castello. not possible to ascend it dello Spino ridiscendere a La Verna is a famous because of snow. For this Chiusi e risalire al Santuario. Franciscan Sanctuary, well reason I chose Bocca Trabaria Un cappuccino alla foresteria known in Italy and well visited as IROBIG to climb at the del santuario, poi discesa in all over the year. beginning of the season.” Casentino, versante dell’Arno e To get my third IRONBIG it is When I returned home, I risalire alla Verna e ritorno a was necessary to reach Pieve S. immediately got in touch with Pieve Santo Stefano alle 12:00. Stefano (where the ascent Daniel (President of BIG) to Ogni volta devo mettere in begins) by car, first climb ask permission to choose my programma due scalate da due Passo dello Spino, then second IRONBIG, Monte versanti diversi (per fortuna ci descending to Chiusi and again Nerone. Dan approved with sono diverse vie che portano up to La Verna. A short pause enthusiasm. Between July and alla Verna e diversificando to enjoy a cappuccino at August most of my excursions non diventa noioso) per sanctuary’ bar, a quick descent were directed toward climbing raggiungere le 25 volte to Casentino (upper Arno Monte Nerone from all three sides, on the 18th of July (Mountain fest) the same day from two sides while Amilcare Monelletta, the UIC fellow with me did the ascent from three sides, reaching again the right to “Brevetto del Nerone”. On the 28th of August I completed the 25 climbs of Monte Nerone

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Valley) and a new ascent to La come ciclista (vedi foto). Without car traffic all the snow Verna and finally returning had remained there. It was down to Tiber Valley at Pieve La rottura della sella durante la especially challenging when Santo Stefano at 12 o’clock. scalata al Nerone in compagnia Gabrio Spapperi began to Every time it was necessary to di Carmine Zigari, ho dovuto descend with the road covered program two ascents to La procedere in salita fuori sella e with snow. Really an Verna, from two different sides anche a piedi per raggiungere unforgettable experience for a (fortunately there are several la vetta e poi in discesa 20 Km cyclist. roads leading to La Verna, and seduto sulla canna fino a changing routes is not boring Piobbico dove Tobia Pupita ha My seat-screw broke during when making the 25 ascents sostituito la vite della sella rotta an ascent to Monte Nerone required to get the IRONBIG). a facendomi tornare a casa in with Carmine Zigari. I had to Due to the shortage of time, in bici. climb without sitting and also the afternoon I had to go to the Il tris della Verna il 2 Ottobre, proceeded by foot to reach the office. Even when starting at due ascese dalla Valtiberina e top and then descended to sunrise it was not easy to reach una dal Casentino, 140 km tra Piobbico, where Tobia Pupita the goal. I took advantage of salita e discesa senza un metro repaired the seat with a new good weather on Saturday and di pianura, davvero un’impresa screw which permitted me to tried to climb La Verna three memorabile. return home by bike. times, which I did on the 2nd Credo di essere stato l’unico Three times I ascended La of October. My third IRONBIG dell’associazione BIG ad aver Verna on the 2nd of October, was completed on the 8th of effettuato 3 IROBIG nel 2010, two times from upper Tiber October. tutto è dovuto alla valley and one from Arno determinazione e tenacia valley, a ride of 140 km Quali sono stati i momenti più richiesta perché between ascent and descent, no significativi dei 3 IRONBIG? complessivamente hanno plain road at all, really Quando inaspettatamente comportato di pedalare in salita challenging. provenendo dalle Marche per 925 km per un dislivello di abbiamo trovato la neve in 60.000 m. I am supposedly the only cima al passo di Bocca cyclist in the BIG association Trabaria, (la strada dal lato What has been the most curious to have achieved 3 IRONBIG umbro era chiusa al traffico per happening of these in 2010. All the climbs frana e quindi non transitando IRONBIGs? combined approximate 950 km auto le neve non si era sciolta) Coming up from Marche side, and a 60,000 m. difference in ho affrontato con Gabrio we found fresh snow at Bocca elevation. Spapperi la discesa con un Trabaria (the road from the manto di 10 cm di neve, Umbrian side having been davvero un ricordo indelebile closed due to a landslip.

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Cycling up to the highest point of Hungary by the age of 9 and a half. with the climb. Samir enjoyed On the descent we were Gábor GYÖRGYI that with his young age he will cautious, and then the next cycle up to Kékestető. I told climb turned: Galyatető. We My nephew (Bouchelaghem him, that the last 3,5 km will be had plan to get the planned Samir) became member of the very hard. To Mátraháza the train, but by bad occassion the BIG last year with cycling up road went mainly in forest with next train started 1 hours later. to the 700m high Dobogókő. only once view to the TV The ascent gave some nice Last year we cycled 70-75 kms tower. As we turned to the views but for me Galyatető in a day on partly montainous steep last 3,5 kms, Samir agred from East was every time a terrain, but after 2009 our plan with me: „-Gabor, it’s true that little bit boring. Reaching was to cycle to the highest you told me, how hard it will Galyatető we wanted to cycle point of Hungary, Kékestető be, and it’s truely very steep.” as high as we could. Without (1015 m). – and he pushed the pedals going up to the look-out tower We travelled to Gyöngyös by with the small legs of a 9,5 unfortunatelly there is no view, train, from where we started. year old child. Sometimes I so we stopped and I took Our secret plan (not mentioned recorded the cycling for photos by a nice carved wood to his parents) was to cycle videocamera and motivated column. Cycling back to Galyatető too, because it is him, but without it he had Gyöngyös we get the planned only ca. 15kms from the enough will-power to go up. I train in time. Kékestető and isn’t too steep, enjoyed to told him when we The tour was 82,7 km long and so isn’t too much musclework had only 1 km or only 200m. had 1275 m heightdifference. after Kékestető. After that my He felt brave and based on my Not bad for such a young guy faithful bicycle was stolen – experiences when I cycled up although a racebike was lent to by my age of 16 I bought him me for 2 weeks – I used my old souvenirs a great text on it: it is Video: and 1st bike with I started about that „Facing with the http://www.youtube.com/watch cycletouring in 1990. weather conditions I acheieved ?v=1nOPQmK7ukQ We didn’t have any problem to arrive up here… etc.”

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Fietsen in polders en bergen! Prachtig om allemaal mee te tegen het frame aan. Wil en John TIMMERMANS maken. Tevens maakte ik mij behoorlijk zorgen om Wil, die In 1974 zijn wij met ons gezin In 1993 zelf de stoute schoenen natuurlijk met dezelfde begonnen met tochten op de aangetrokken en op eigen problemen zat. racefiets. gelegenheid naar Oostenrijk. Onze vrienden hebben de top Wij hadden helaas toendertijd Fantastisch, alleen de nooit gehaald, die stonden geen auto tot onze beschikking beklimming van de tijdens onze afdaling, op een en de familie op Gletscherstrasse in het paar ruime afstand van Kaunertal zou ons lang kilometer van de top, naast de Heerhugowaard. bijblijven. fiets te blauwbekken. Het woon-werkverkeer werd Met prachtig weer, met twee Zij hebben in eerste instantie door mij na verloop van tijd vrienden, vanuit Fliess nog geprobeerd om met ons af ook op de fiets gedaan. vertrokken, geen vuiltje aan de te dalen. Iedere dag 60 km door weer en lucht dachten wij. Dat lukte van geen kant, de wind van begin maart tot eind Nou, dat hebben wij geweten. angst was aardig in hun benen oktober. Na het meer op 1900 mtr. gaan zitten. hoogte door naar de top op Uiteindelijk hebben zij het In 1979 zijn wij lid geworden 2700 mtr. beter bekeken dan wij, want zij van TC Omnisport de In de klim werd het steeds werden meegenomen door 2 fietstoervereniging in ons dorp. bewolkter en de koeien gingen uiterst vriendelijke Toen werd er begonnen om in als een speer allemaal naar automobilisten. de weekeinden met Wil en de beneden. Sinds die tijd zorgen wij er wel kinderen lange afstanden te Dat had voor ons het sein voor, dat er voldoende kleding rijden. moeten wezen om hetzelfde te mee gaat tijdens onze bergtrips. Tochten boven de 200 km doen. waren geen uitzondering. Maar ja, als je er eenmaal voor Het hoogtepunt of hoogste punt Rond de 20.000 km in het gaat, dan zal je het halen ook. kwam voor ons in 1998. seizoen hebben wij meerdere Eenmaal boven aangekomen, De beklimming van de Pico malen afgelegd! begon het te miezeren en al Veleta (3381 mtr.) hebben wij Helaas raakte na een aantal gauw ging dat over in ijsregen. toen vanuit Granada gedaan. jaren de animo bij de kinderen Als een speer weer terug naar (Overigens een prachtige stad over. beneden met alleen een dun om te bezichtigen, met als Dus werden de tochten in het gamex-jack extra aan. topper het Alhambra). vervolg altijd met z’n tweeën Wij hebben het nog nooit zo ‘s Morgens bijtijds vanuit de gedaan. vreselijk koud gehad, mijn stad vertrokken, was ook wel In 1988 heeft het klimvirus ons lange stelten klapperden nodig ook, daar de temperatuur te pakken gekregen. werkelijk in de middag zou oplopen tot Onze toerclub organiseerde toen een 10-daagse tocht door de Franse Alpen. Wat waren wij zenuwachtig, nog nooit in het hooggebergte geweest. Maar, het bleek dat wij door de jaren heen met rijden in de polders, met veel wind, toch nog aardige klimbenen hadden gekregen. Het ging ons gelukkig redelijk makkelijk af. Col du Galibier, Col d’Izoard, Alpe d’Huez en Mont Ventoux waren tijdens die trip de hoogtepunten. Daarna nog gezamenlijk naar de Pyreneën en Dolomieten geweest.

119 BIG Review 2011 ongeveer 40 graden. gelopen zoals wij hadden De klim tot de ski-pistes op gehoopt. 2700 mtr. was echt geweldig, Een oogprobleem van mooie geleidelijke klim en Wil gooide behoorlijk goed roet in het eten. geasfalteerd. Wel zijn wij nog naar De laatste kilometers tot de top Bretagne en de Harz was het één droevenis, kuilen geweest. en rotsblokken versperden In de Harz o.a. de de weg tot boven aan toe. Brocken beklommen, op Boven gekomen alleen maar de terugweg naar huis een paar grote stenen om op te nog even de kunnen uitpuffen, verder niets! Kahler Asten meegepikt. Het prachtige uitzicht over de Kahler Asten omgeving, maakte alles weer helemaal goed. Afwachten nu maar De afdaling werd echter een weer, wat het nieuwe ware beproeving, erg veel wind jaar ons gaat brengen. en de al eerder genoemde In ieder geval zijn wij opstakels. weer vol goede moed. Toch zijn wij weer heelhuids op 2700 mtr. gekomen en hebben ons daarna kunnen uitleven in de afdaling. Jammer dat mijn lange lijf als een natuurlijke rem werkte, anders hadden wij met zeer hoge snelheid naar beneden gegaan. Want de weg leende zich daar uitstekend voor, geen scherpe bochten en prima wegdek. Ik weet mij nog wel te herinneren dat bij terugkomst in Granada de warmte als een deken over je heen viel. Meindert tijdens de Nu zijn wij inmiddels sinds beklimming van de 2008 aktief binnen de BIG- Hahntennjoch 200 gemeenschap. Ons clublid bij Omnisport, de zeer enthousiaste Meindert Brugman, heeft ons toen attent gemaakt op het bestaan van deze leuke uitdaging.

Het virus heeft ons in ieder geval nu 2 seizoenen behoorlijk te pakken gehad. Waaronder de meeting in Zuid- Duitsland en Oostenrijk, toen wij daar een aantal beklimmingen met de groep hebben gemaakt. Leuk om eens andere BIG-gers te ontmoeten. Het afgelopen jaar is het wat ons betreft niet helemaal

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Une année sur la Terre

J.BRUFFAERTS Alix et son père Jacques Martin, www.cyclojose.be Pionnier du Journal de Tintin. Philippe Bertrand et sa Linda, Cette année-là, Plus sexy que Lady Gaga. La planète bleue affronte la colère des Dieux. R.I.P La déesse Gaïa précipite de nombreux adieux. Des auteurs humanistes, Cette année-là, Bernard Clavel, Salinger et Kundera Le BIG fête son 25me anniversaire. Pour ne citer que ceux-là. Condamné à rouler dans la pampa R.I.P Je renonce à l’objectif-Angleterre. Puis, tout tombe de Charybde en Scylla. Et encore Que de calamités, cette année-là. Il y a ce Gérard Berliner Qui m’arrache les larmes du corps Haïti anéanti, séisme au Chili. Avec son histoire de Louise sous la Grande Guerre. Hadès, lassé par l’arrogance de l’Homme C’est le Bon Dieu qui l’a aidé. Sort fou de rage hors de son lit C’est le Bon Dieu qui l’a fauché. Et déverse le Styx entier sur icelui sa pomme. R.I.P Un volcan enfume l’Europe, Paralysie du trafic aérien au top. Un humoriste Tragédie aux J.O de Vancouver. Exit Topaloff à la peau du ventre bien tendu. BIG rendez-vous en Angleterre, Il ne dira plus jamais merci au petit Jésus. Sans l’auteur de ses lignes, R.I.P Qui pusillanime et indigne, S’enterre Des cyclistes De peur de forcer une guéguerre. , Ballerini, Nino Defilippis, Un big boum à Lîdje, Van Genechten, Impanis et Guy Lapébie. Un immeuble réduit en porridge Plus j’y pense et moins j’oublie. Une catastrophe ferroviaire à Hal R.I.P A marquer d’une pierre blanche dans les annales. Xynthia ravage la France. Les BIG-cyclotouristes, Jean Ferrat tire sa révérence : Mon copain Germain, Grevink et Piero Rota. Pourtant sa montagne était si belle Tous passés de vie à trépas. Comment peut-on s’imaginer Plus j’y pense et plus je contriste. En voyant un vol d’hirondelles R.I.P Que l’automne vient d’arriver. Balpeau, c’est l’hiver qui a frappé. Lech Kaczyncki & Maria Kaczynska, Une hécatombe de V.I.P. Des crashés polonais pour l’éternité. R.I.P R.I.P

Des artistes, Déluge chez les Cariocas Terzieff, Donnadieu, Jean Simmons, Roger Pierre, Qui ne savent plus à quel saint se vouer. Tony Curtis, Georges Wilson, Martine Sarcey, La marée noire sur les côtes de Louisiane, Giraudeau, La rouge au royaume des tsiganes. Ginette Garcin, Pierre Vaneck, et Bruno Cremer. Crues historiques au Queensland, R.I.P Crocos et serpents délogent les habitants. Alerte rouge au Pakistan, l’Indus emporté, Des dialoguistes, Les Penjâbis déracinés. Black Edwards, Arthur Penn, Cécile Aubry, Alain Deux présidents ivoiriens ! Corneau, Lequel des deux est-il luciférien ? Claude Chabrol, Denis Hopper et Eric Rohmer, La Russie en feu, Le Var balayé par les eaux. Et cette obsession du Genou de Claire. Les usagers de la route se gelant les pinceaux. R.I.P A quand le grand chaos ?

Des Bd-fabulistes, Après ce raz de marée des éléments déchaînés, Fabuleux comme Tibet Bonjour la vague des pédophiles tonsurés, Et son héros Ric Hochet. Des politiciens extrémistes,

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Qui font le lit des fondamentalistes, Des racistes et des terroristes.

Il y a eu tout ça Et puis malgré tout ça, Cette année-là, On recense parfois un émoi.

Spartacus s’imposant comme le « Flandrien » ? L’année des records, C’est pour Philippe et « El pistolero » Contador Les deux valent leur pesant d’or.

Mautirolo sacré Super Big parrain. Putain ! En voilà un qui monte au train. Faut pas oublier les Jacquemin, Le parrain et la marraine du Rosier Qui épargnent le déshonneur à l’écrivassier Car sans eux, pas de table ronde à Langeac. Ils sauvent sa saison d’un Big couac. Expo universelle de Shangaï, Un succès et Banzaï Pour la Roja impériale Et la vuvuzela, reine du Mundial. 33 mineurs chiliens miraculés, Un sauvetage qui émeut le monde entier. Bicentenaire année Chopin, Aussi celle du poulpe-devin. Un dissident chinois nobélisé Au grand dam des maoïstes offusqués. Retour des soldats du désert Mais l’Iraq sortira-t-elle de son enfer ?

Pendant de temps-là, on chante en Belgique Oh la la la C’est magnifique ! Des crises d’amour Qui durent six mois, un jour Oh la la la Mais c’est magnifique Et faire un jour Un mariage d’amour C’est magnifique.

Il y a eu tout ça Et puis malgré tout ça, Un fait d’armes que je ne suis pas prêt d’oublier. Fréderic, mon seul et unique héritier Qu’une taupinière rend irascible Au Mont-Roland décroche la starlette inaccessible.

Cette année-là J’ai capitulé devant les caprices des Dieux Il n’y a plus qu’à panser les bleus.

C’était l’année 2010.

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