BIG Review 2013

Inhoudsopgave / Table of contents / La table des matières

Author Subject Pages Zone BIG Review Cover : Pasubio, Strada degli Eroi Nr. 27 La table des matieres/Table of contents 1 Daniel GOBERT President's word 2-3 01-03-2013 Meetings 2013 4-6 Distribuée à tous les Superlist 1000 7-12 membres en règle. Classements 2012 13-15 Sent to all members The yearly classements - Palmares 16-17 regurlarly subscribed.

Charts / Statistiques 2012 18-19  Brevet International du Plan BIG 2013-2014 20-23 Grimpeur Our legendary BIG’s 24-28  International Dépenses et recettes 2012 29-30 Cycloclimbing Diploma  Zwischenstaatliches Johan de GROOT Vier dagen BIGgenjacht in de Benelux 31-34 3 Kletterer Zeugnis Kevin SPEED Luxembourg 35-38 3  Internationaal Helmuth DEKKERS Black Forest 39-41 4 Klimmersbrevet Olivier NIHOUL Quatre BIGs en Ardêche 42-45 5  Brevetto Internazional dello Scalatore Hans KOEDIJKER Ax-les-Thermes 46 5  Diploma Internacional del Daniel GOBERT La montagne des animaux 47-48 5 escalador Meindert BRUGMAN Luz-Ardiden 49 5 Association des Monts de Michel MENARD Récit d’une terrible défaillance 50-51 5 France Gianni SOLENI Gerbier de Jonc, Tatras e qualcos’altro 52-53 5/10/12 Super Grimpeur Franco- Dirk BUSCHMANN & Stoss 54 7 Belge Anja von HEYDEBRECK Meindert BRUGMAN Melchsee-Frutt 55 7 Editeur/Editor : Martin KOOL Mannen met een missie 56-58 8/9 Martin Kool [email protected] Giordano CASTAGNOLI BIG Lazio 59-60 9 Luigi CANDELI 1001 Miglia 61-63 9 Impression Revue- Marc SÉGUY 6 BIGs, 4 millions de brebis et plusieurs 64-65 9 Reviews printing: couleuvres noires Etienne Mayeur Kevin SPEED BIG Summary Italy 66-68 9 Expéditeur/Sender: Dirk VISSERS Het beest getemd 69-70 9 Dominique Jacquemin Michal FULKA My first BIG 71 10 François CANDAU Tatras 2012 72-74 10 Website: www.challenge-big.eu Roland SCHUYER BIG Meeting 2012 75-79 10

Kevin SPEED Annual meeting 2012 80-87 10 Gabor KREICSI Parallel Challenge 88 10 Coverphoto: Pasubio, Strada degli Eroi Helmuth DEKKERS A Dream that became reality 89-95 12 by: Martin KOOL Boeken Doorfietsen van Marc Peeters 96

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MEMBRES DU MONDE CYCLISTE LE MOT DU PRÉSIDENT Daniël GOBERT

Maintenant que nous avons près de cinq mille membres et que beaucoup d'entre eux nous ont rejoints lors de ces dernières années du troisième millénaire, beaucoup d'entre vous témoignent de réactions, questions ou suggestions, entièrement compréhensibles et normales, mais qui ignorent les fondements de notre philosophie de base, sorte de recherche d'une participation grimpeuse en tant que membres à part entière du monde cycliste dans toute sa globalité.

Par conséquent, nous ne sommes pas des représentants du monde cycliste sportif professionnel uniquement, ni du monde cyclotouriste uniquement, ni des pratiquants du VTT, ni des touristes à vélo, ni des cyclistes globe- trotters, ni des randonneurs mondiaux, ni des cyclotouristes sportifs, ni de toute autre forme de pratique unilatérale semblant pédaler à l'encontre de toutes les autres pratiques.

Notre philosophie de base est une philosophie ouverte sur toutes les pratiques tant qu'on grimpe, sur le plus grand nombre possible de pays d'Europe en harmonie avec leur propre développement interne de la pratique du vélo, une philosophie de rassembleur de membres du monde cycliste, dans toute sa variété, dans toute sa complexité, dans toute ses composantes et par conséquent, dans toute sa richesse.

Nous avons édité trois critères (sport, tourisme et médiatisation) et cinq principes dans notre règlement afin de donner un avis objectif et structuré à vos nombreuses requêtes, témoins du dynamisme et de l'implication dont vous faites preuve dans le challenge. Ces phrases explicites servent mieux que de longs discours à rappeler la folle envie de grimper tout et partout qui nous unit, sans nous emprisonner dans des murs trop restrictifs.

Bref, le sommet atteint est plus important que le versant par lequel on l'a atteint à condition d'être fier de son ascension jusqu'à ce sommet. Son avancement personnel au classement général est plus important qu'une comparaison avec un autre membre dans celui-ci puisque deux membres n'ont jamais effectué les mêmes ascensions. Toutefois, dès qu'un membre a grimpé plusieurs centaines de B.I.Gs, les niveaux des performances entre les classés se resserrent très fort. La découverte d'autres pratiques grimpeuses est plus importante que l'acharnement à prouver que la sienne est la meilleure. La rencontre fortuite d'un collègue d'un lointain pays au hasard d'un B.I.G est plus important que la performance collective d'un groupe local sur une ascension locale. Pourtant, même si les premiers cas donnés sont plus importants que les seconds cas donnés dans les exemples précédents, il nous arrive de promouvoir les seconds de temps en temps. Par contre, nous privilégions, nous stimulons et nous prônons les premiers cas.

Vous constaterez dans les objectifs ci-après pour les deux années à venir que nous allons intégrer des classements dans notre page de classement qui pourront donner un retour plus particulier à ceux qui privilégient certaines pratiques, soit plus sportives, soit plus touristiques, soit plus légendaires et nous allons aussi ouvrir les challenges nationaux, aux accents plus locaux et moins axés sur la découverte lointaine. Mais ces particularités ne prendront jamais le dessus sur l'esprit d'ouverture du grand challenge B.I.G lui-même, qui emmène chacun de ses membres, autant sur les traces des champions en roulant sur les routes de leurs victoires, que dans des culs- de-sac inconnus au charme envoûteur, que dans des pentes à la folie insoupçonnée ou que dans les altitudes suprêmes qui font la fierté de chacun des pays visités.

Au sommet, le membre du B.I.G domine le monde, mais il n'écrase personne. Ne l'oubliez pas ... Grande et joyeuse saison 2013 à tous les membres du monde cyclogrimpeur.

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MEMBERS OF THE CYCLING WORLD PRESIDENT’S WORD Daniël GOBERT

Now that we have nearly five thousand members and that many among us reached us during the last years in the third millenium, many members send us requests, reactions, questions or suggestions, sometimes very far from our basic philosophy, which is a kind of research of a climbing inclusion in the general cycling world, considering its globality.

Consequently, we are neither only members of the cycling races world, nor only of the cycletouring world, nor of those who ride only on MTB, nor of tourists on bike, nor of cycling globe-trotters, nor of cyclesport world, nor of any other particular shape of unilateral practice seeming to turn its pedals against all the other practices.

Our basic philosophy is an opened philosophy, opened to all the cycloclimbing practices, wherever and however you're climbing, opened to the most possible countries in Europe in harmony with their own principle to use the bike, a philosophy that puts together those different practices in the cycling world, in all its varieties, all its complexities, all its components and all its richness.

We edited three criteria (sport, tourism and legend) and five principles in our rules with the goal to give a correct and objective answer to all your requests, inlightning your implication and your wish to take part in the BIG- challenge world. Those sentences, very explicit, help more than long speeches, to recall our common crazyness on slopes everywhere, that makes us meeting without too strict walls keeping us in a kind of prison of thoughts.

In fact, the top reached is more important that the side by which you reached it, if you are proud of your ascent. Your personal increasing in the general classement is more important that the way by which you compare yourself with the other members, almost in the low classement, because there, we add apples and pears, because all the members have not climbed the same B.I.Gs. However, in the higher classement, the levels of performances are very near one to another. The discovery of other climbing practices are more important than the defence against all of his own personal practice of climbing. The meeting with a member living in a far foreign country, with some hasard, during a climb, is more important than the performance of a local group on a local climb. Of course, we sometimes consider with congratulations the second approaches but we give a main priority and we stimulate our members to climb with ideas near the first ones.

You'll see in the coming targets 2013-2014 of our BIG-challenge for the two coming years that we'll include new classements in the general classements'page of our website, to give some feedback to the members who query those kinds of particular practices of cycloclimbing, either with more sporting performance, or with more tourism, or with more legendary or higher climbs and we'll also open the national challenges, giving the opportunity to ride more local climbs, nearer our home. But those parallel challenges and classements will never, never go over our great central BIG-challenge, which leads you to the tracks of our great cycling champions on the roads of their victories, or in end-roads from nowhere with surprising landscapes, or in unbelievable gradients or in the higher altitudes of every country that we visit.

On the top, the B.I.G member rules the world, but doesn't splash anybody. Don't forget it ... Happy great 2013 season to the whole cycloclimbing world.

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Meetings 2013

1. The official annual meeting : The Ardennes 21 BIGs 03 - 08/08/2013 Organisation

1) All the participants are like always in the 1) Tous les participants sont comme toujours au challenge B.I.G under their own responsabilities challenge B.I.G sous leurs propres responsabilités

2) The basic main tour is exposed here below but 2) Le parcours de base est exposé ci-dessous mais the participant stay free to short, to enlarge or to le participant reste libre de raccourcir, allonger ou deviate his own tour dévier son propre circuit par rapport à celui-ci

3) The price of the basic tour is 250,- € 3) Le prix du circuit de base est de 250,- € (countaining 5 accomodations, 5 breakfasts, 3 (comprenant les 5 logements, les 5 petits-déjeûners, dinners (evening), welcome cocktail, food & drinks 3 dîners (du soir), le cocktail de bienvenue, les at every top of every big, transport of luggages ravitaillements au sommet de chaque BIG, le inside a truck ). The official subscription will be transport des bagages dans une camionnette). agreeded with the recption of 100,- € through one L'inscription officielle sera accordée aux 25 of our payments'possibilities explained in the menu premiers qui aurtont versé 100,- € sur un des contribution of the website. The 25 first persons comptes du challenge visible sur la page du menu subscribed in this way will have all the "cotisations" de notre site web. Les autres peuvent availabilities offered by the organization. The other faire leur propre organisation, choisir leur propre ones can manage their own organization, hôtel, et prendre part aux circuits lors d'une ou accomodations, can only take part in one or more plusieurs étapes seulement mais disposeront des stages and will have the help of the organization, services de l'organisation, seulement si c'est encore but only if it's still possible after the service given possible après avoir servi les 25 inscrits. Leur to the 25 first subscribers. Their own prices will be propre prix sera décidé en accord avec decided with the organization according to their l'organisation en fonction de leur requête. request. 4) Les ravitaillements au sommet des bigs seront disponibles dans la fourchette horaire indiquée 4) The food & drink on the tops will be available in entre parenthèses et une photo générale du groupe the fork of hours indicated between breakets and a présent sera aussi dispensée à l'heure indiquée. general photo will be taken with all the group in a Attention, un sac de couchage est nécessaire pour precise hour also indicated. Attention : a bodybagg une nuit à Wanne. is necessary for one night in Wanne.

Here are the required current hostels / Voici les hôtels prévus :

AJ Namur Hôtel François 1er AJ Bouillon Gîte château WANNE Sol Cress SPA REVIN

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And here are the profiles of the stages because this year, there will be stages with precise kilometers and not just bigs to reach like often during the official meetings.

Et voici les profils d'étapes, car il y aura bien des étapes cette année-ci au lieu de la conquête simple de bigs à rallier comme la plupart du temps durant les rendez-vous officiels.

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2. Regional meetings

HU more informations in the website

DE Regionales BIG-Treffen in Bad Wiessee am Tegernsee → 04 – 05/05/2013

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SUPERLIST 1000

Iceland Denmark Wales 1 Hrafnseyrarheiði 49 Ejer Bavnehöj 96 Llanberis Pass 2 Öxnadalsheiði 50 Himmelbjerget 97 Horseshoe Pass 3 Námaskarð 98 Bwlch-y-Groes 4 Halfdan Northern Ireland 99 Devil's Staircase 5 Hellisheiði 51 Sperrin 100 Gospel Pass 6 Oddskarð 52 Spelga Dam 7 Almannáskarð Netherlands Ireland 101 Posbank Norway 53 Gap of Mamore 102 Italiaanse Weg 8 Nordkapp 54 Grianan of Aileach 103 Oude Holleweg 9 Guolasjavri 55 Glengesh Pass 104 Cauberg 10 Saltfjellet 56 Cliffs of Moher 105 Keutenberg 11 Umskardet 57 Connor Pass 106 Eyserbos 12 Tron 58 Coomakesta Pass 107 Oude Huls 13 Dovrefjell 59 Ballaghasheen Pass 108 Gulpenerberg 14 Blåhö 60 Ballaghbeama Gap 109 Vijlenerbos 15 Vestkapp 61 Healy Pass 110 Drielandenpunt 16 Trollstigveien 62 Mullaghanish 17 Dalsnibba 63 Slieve Bloom Mountain Belgium 18 Gamle Strynefjellsvei 64 Sally Gap 111 Rodeberg 19 Sognefjellhytta 65 Wicklow Gap 112 Kemmelberg 20 Valdresflya 113 Koppenberg Scotland 21 Tyinosen 114 Kluisberg 66 Bealach Na Ba 22 Juvasshytta 115 Oude Kwaremont 67 Bealach Ratagain 23 Osen-Eldrevatnet 116 Paterberg 68 Lowther Hill 24 Nystølensskardet 117 Muur van Geraardsbergen 69 Cairn Gorm 25 Stalheimskleiva 118 Mont Saint Aubert 70 Lecht Road 26 Aurlandsvegen 119 Barrage du Ry de Rome 71 Tom Dubh 27 Hardangervidda 120 Triple Mur Monty 72 The Strone 28 Gaustatoppen 121 La Gayolle 73 Devil's Elbow 29 Dyrskar 122 Montagne de la Croix 74 Glen Quaich 30 Lysefjordveien 123 Col de Corbion 75 Carter Bar 124 Col du Sati Sweden 125 Mur de Huy England 31 Luossavaara 126 Signal de Botrange 76 Great Dun Fell 32 Ullådalen 127 Ferme Libert 77 Westernhope Moor 33 Stekenjokk 128 Côte de la Redoute 78 Hartside Cross 34 Flatruet 129 Col du Rideux 79 Whinlatter Pass 35 Sälens Högfjällshotellet 130 Les Hézalles 80 Honister Pass 36 Vemdalskalet 131 Col du Rosier 81 Hard Knott Pass 37 Nipstugan Pass 132 Côte de Wanne 82 Wrynose Pass 38 Klevaliden 133 Col du Stockeu 83 Kirkstone Pass 39 Tossebergsklätten 134 Baraque de Fraiture 84 Fleet Moss 40 Hunneberg 135 Cheval de Bois 85 Rosedale Head 41 Högkullen 136 Col d'Haussire 86 Cow & Calf 137 Pied Monti Finland 87 Oxenhope Moor 42 Kilpisjärvi 88 Holme Moss Luxembourg 43 Kaunispää 89 Snake Pass 138 Côte de Munshausen 44 Pallastunturi 90 Mam Tor 139 Mont Saint Nicolas 45 Rukatunturi 91 Bush Down 140 Bourscheid 46 Tunturi-Ylläs 92 Exe Plain 141 Jardin-Tour Napoléon 47 Vuokatti 93 Dunkery Beacon 142 Côte d'Eschdorf 48 Ukko-Koli 94 Chineway Hill 143 Ferme de Masseler 95 Cheddar Gorge 144 Herrenberg 145 Berdorf Gorges du Loup

146 Altrier

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147 Côte d'Houwald 204 Montagne Locronan 264 Col du Grand Colombier 148 Eoliennes de Pafebierg 205 Roc de Toullaëron 265 Crêt de Châtillon 149 Birgerkraiz 206 Ménez-Bré 266 Mont du Chat 150 Mont Saint Jean 207 Mûr-de-Bretagne 267 Mont Revard 208 Mont Bel Air 268 Col du Granier Germany 209 Cap Fréhel 269 Col de Porte 151 Waseberg 210 Mont Dol 270 Col des Arces 152 Hermannsdenkmal 211 Mont Cassel 271 Col de la Ramaz 153 Hoher Meissner 212 Mont Noir 272 Col de l'Encrenaz 154 Hoherodskopf 213 Mont Tranet 273 Avoriaz 155 Mützenich 214 Col du Loup 274 Col de Joux-Plane 156 Schwarzer Mann 215 Mont Saint-Walfroy 275 Mont Salève 157 Hohe Acht 216 Grand Wintersberg 276 Col de la Colombière 158 Krautscheid 217 Col du Donon 277 Col de la Croix-Fry 159 Steigung von Bremm 218 Champ du Feu 278 Col du Grand Cucheron 160 Stumpfer Turm 219 Col de la Grosse Pierre 279 Collet d'Allevard 161 Erbeskopf 220 Col de la Schlucht 280 Col de la Madeleine 162 Winterbergstrasse 221 Petit Drumond 281 Signal de Bisanne 163 Schaumberg 222 Petit Ballon 282 Cormet d'Arêches 164 Hesselberg 223 Grand Ballon 283 Cormet de Roselend 165 Donnersberg 224 Ballon de Servance 284 La Plagne 166 Trifels 225 Ballon d'Alsace 285 Col du Petit Saint-Bernard 167 Hornisgrinde 226 Butte de Montenoison 286 Col de l'Iseran 168 Schliffkopf 227 Mont Beuvray 287 Col de la Croix-de-Fer 169 Löcherbergwasen 228 Mont de Sène 288 Col du Mont Cenis 170 Kandel 229 Signal d'Uchon 289 Chamrousse 171 Schauinsland 230 Butte de Suin 290 Alpe d'Huez 172 Belchen 231 Col de Favardy 291 Col du Galibier 173 Feldberg 232 Mont Poupet 292 Col du Granon 174 Blauen 233 Grand Taureau 293 Pré Madame Carle 175 Lochenpass 234 Mont Morond 294 Col d'Izoard 176 Weißenbachsattel 235 Mont d'Or 295 Sommet du Bûcher 177 Petersberg 236 Fort de Chaudanne 296 Chapelle de Clausis 178 Kahler Asten 237 Haut-Crêt 297 Col de Tourniol 179 Großer Inselsberg 238 Col de la Faucille 298 Col du Rousset 180 Wasserkuppe 239 Cirque des Avalanches 299 Col de Ménée 181 Hohe Wurzel 240 Signal du Cuiron 300 Col du Noyer 182 Großer Feldberg 241 Relais de Planachat 301 Mont Ventoux 183 Katzenbuckel 242 Col de Saint-Thomas 302 Mont Colombis 184 Sonnenberg 243 Col du Chevalard 303 Col du Pontis 185 Brocken 244 Puy-de-Dôme 304 Col du Parpaillon 186 Roßtrappe 245 Col de Guéry 305 Col de Vars 187 Auersberg 246 Col de la Croix-Morand 306 Col d'Allos 188 Fichtelberg 247 Col de la Croix Saint-Robert 307 Col de la Cayolle 189 Schwarzriegel 248 Col du Béal 308 Cime de la Bonette 190 Großer Arber 249 Col de Baracuchet 309 Col de la Lombarde 191 Oberjochpass 250 Col de la Croix de l'Homme Mort 310 Col des Champs 192 Nebelhorn 251 Chaise-Dieu 311 Col de la Couillole 193 Riedbergpaß 252 Col de la République 312 Col de Rieisse 194 Allgäuer Berghof Spitze 253 Crêt de l'Oeillon 313 Mont Aigoual 195 Kesselbergstraße 254 Col de Charousse 314 Col des Faisses 196 Wallbergstraße 255 Pas de Peyrol 315 Pic de Nore 197 Spitzingsattel 256 Col de Légal 316 Col de l'Espinouse 198 Sudelfeld 257 Col de Finiels 317 Pic de Tantajo 199 Hirschbichl 258 Pré de la Dame 318 Mont Saint-Baudille 200 Roßfeld 259 Col de Meyrand 319 Mont Saint-Clair 260 Croix de Boutières 320 Guidon du Bouquet France 261 Gerbier de Jonc 321 Mont Faron 201 Roc Trevezel 262 Col de Serre-Mûre 322 Cirque de Vaumale 202 Ménez-Hom 263 Chartreuse de Portes 323 Col de Valferrière 203 Ménez-Kerque

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324 Montagne de Doublier 383 Paso del Morredero 325 Col Saint-Martin 384 Puerto de Foncebadón Spain 326 Mont Vial 385 Puerto del Palo 442 Lagunas de Neila 327 Madonne d'Utelle 386 Pozo las Mujeres Muertas 443 Cruz de la Demanda 328 L'Authion 387 Puerto del Connio 444 Moncalvillo 329 Col de Braus 388 Piedratecha 445 Puerto de Peña Hincada 330 Artzamendi 389 Santuario del Acebo 446 Laguna Negra de Urbion 331 Col de Bagargui-Iraty 390 Puerto de Somiedo 447 El Moncayo 332 Col de la Pierre Saint-Martin 391 Puerto de San Lorenzo 448 Puerto de Orihuela 333 Col de Marie-Blanque 392 Puerto de Ventana 449 Puerto de Villaroya 334 Col d'Aubisque 393 L'Angliru 450 MontCaró 335 Col de Spandelles 394 La Cobertoria 451 Valdelinares 336 Pont d'Espagne 395 Puerto de la Cubilla 452 Puerto Vidré-Vistabella 337 Hautacam 396 Puerto de Pajares 453 Puerto del Remolcador 338 Luz-Ardiden 397 Puerto de San Isidro 454 Alto de Eslida 339 Gavarnie 398 Collado de Los Bedules 455 Javalambre 340 Cirque de Troumouse 399 Puerto de Panderruedas 456 Puerto Viejo 341 Col du Tourmalet 400 Lagos de Covadonga 457 El Portillo 342 Lac d'Aumar 401 Collado Barreda 458 Peña de Francia 343 Col de Beyrède 402 Puerto de San Glorio 459 El Travieso 344 Col d'Aspin 403 Alto Campoo-Fuente Chivo 460 Puerto de Honduras 345 Pla d'Adet 404 Puerto de la Palombera 461 Puerto de Tornavacas 346 Plateau de Beille 405 Puerto del Escudo 462 Puerto del Piornal 347 Col d'Azet 406 Puerto Estacas de Trueba 463 Puerto de la Peña Negra 348 Col de Peyresourde 407 Portillo de Lunada 464 Puerto de Serranillos 349 Superbagnères 408 Peña Cabarga 465 Puerto de Mijares 350 Col de Menté 409 Portillo de la Sia 466 Puerto de Guadarrama 351 Col de Portet d'Aspet 410 Puerto de Orduña 467 Bola del Mundo 352 Guzet-Neige 411 Puerto de Urkiola 468 Puerto de la Morcuera 353 Col d'Agnès 412 Alto de Jaizkibel 469 Puerto de la Quesera 354 Col de Péguère 413 Alto de Azurki 470 Portixol 355 Prat d'Albis 414 Alto de Hachueta 471 Puerto de Ares 356 Montségur 415 Puerto de la Herrera 472 Puerto de Tudons 357 Col du Pradel 416 Puerto de Urbasa 473 Cerro Espuña 358 Port de Pailhères 417 Puerto de Lizárraga 474 Galilea 359 Col de Puymorens 418 Higa de Monreal 475 Coll de Soller 360 Coma Morera 419 Orzanzurieta 476 La Corbata 361 Col de Jau 420 Puerto de Larrau 477 Puig Major 362 Col de Mantet 421 Puerto de Somport 478 Monasterio de Cura 363 Port de Balès 422 Castillo de Loarre 479 Monasterio San Salvador 364 Châlet-hôtel des Cortalets 423 Collado de Sahún 480 Las Palomas de Ronda 365 Tour de Madeloc 424 Cerler 481 Gibraltar 366 Col de Serra 425 El Portillon 482 Alto de Cascajares 367 Serra di Pigno 426 Collado de la Bonaigua 483 Puerto del León 368 Bocca di a Battaglia 427 Llac de Sant Maurici 484 Puerto del Sol 369 Haut-Asco 428 Coll de Cantó 485 Mirador Cabra Montés 370 Col de Prato 429 Rasos de Peguera 486 Puerto Lobo 371 Col de Lava 430 Coll de Pal 487 Pico Veleta 372 Col de Vergio 431 Vallter 2000 488 Puerto Haza del Lino 373 Bergeries de Grotelle 432 Coll de Bracons 489 Puerto de la Ragua 374 Col de Verde 433 Turó de l'Home 490 Puerto de Tiscar 375 Col de Bavella 434 Coll Formic 491 Las Palomas de Cazorla 435 Monasterio de Montserrat Spain 492 Alto de la Sagra 376 Monte Aloia Andorra 493 Puerto Padilla 377 Vixía Herbeira 436 Arcalis 494 Calar Alto 378 Alto de San Clodio 437 Coll de Ordino 495 Las Cañadas 379 Puerto del Buey 438 Els Cortals 496 Pico del Inglés 380 Cabeza de Manzaneda 439 Port d'Envalira 497 Pozo de las Nieves 381 Puerto de Ancares 440 Port de Cabus 498 Roque de los Muchachos 382 El Sestil 441 Bosc de la Rabassa 499 Cumbrecita

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500 Garajonay 557 Buchs-Malbun 614 Timmelsjoch 558 Ovronnaz 615 Mutterbergalm Portugal 559 Col du Sanetsch 616 Speicher-Zillergründl 501 Monte do Faro 560 Lac de Tseuzier 617 Halltal 502 Nossa Senhora da Graça 561 Crans-Montana 618 Zillertaler Höhenstraße 503 Barragem do Alvao 562 Gorneren 619 Sagalm 504 Alto de Espinho 563 Fafleralp 620 Kitzbühler Horn 505 Marofa 564 Axalp Steinplatte-Kammerkör 506 Buçaco 565 Grosse Scheidegg 621 Bergbahnen 507 Torre 566 Oberaarsee 622 Gerlospaß 508 Bom Jésus 567 Sustenpass 623 Staller Sattel 509 Alto do Trevim 568 Furkapass 624 Höhenstraße Loferer Alm 510 Caramulinho 569 Oberalppass 625 Hochtor 511 Sao Mamede 570 Klausenpass 626 Neues-Luckner Haus 512 Marvao 571 Tannenbodenalp 627 Volkzeiner Hütte 513 Capela São Macario 572 Pas de Morgins 628 Oscheniksee 514 Monsanto 573 Col de la Forclaz 629 Hochstein Parkplatz 515 Alto de Sintra 574 Col des Planches 630 Dientner Sattel 516 Serra da Arrábida 575 Monte Generoso 631 Gaisberg Straße 517 Monte Foïa 576 Barrage de Mauvoisin 632 Arthur Haus 518 Montejunto 577 Thyon 2000 633 Zirknitztal 519 Eira do Serrado 578 Barrage de la Grande Dixence 634 Plöckenpass 520 Bocca da Encumeada 579 Arolla 635 Jamnig Hütte 521 Cabo Girao 580 Glacier de Moiry 636 Moldaublick 522 Pico Arieiro 581 Chandolin 637 Loser Hütte 523 Lagoa do Canário 582 Mattmarksee 638 Stoderzinken 524 Pico da Barrosa 583 Simplonpass 639 Roßbrand 525 Caldeira do Faial 584 Nufenenpass 640 Hochwurzen Hütte 585 Sankt-Gothardpass 641 Tauernpaß Switzerland 586 Lago del Naret 642 Maltatal 526 La Barillette 587 Lukmanierpass 643 Katschberg 527 Col de la Givrine 588 Lago Luzzone 644 Naßfeldpaß 528 Col du Marchairuz 589 Passo di Neggia 645 Poludniger Alm 529 Mont Tendre 590 Passo del San Bernardino 646 Turracher Höhe 530 Col de l'Aiguillon 591 Glaspass 647 Falkertsee-Hütte 531 Vue des Alpes 592 Lenzerheidepass 648 Villacher Alpenstraße 532 Le Chasseral 593 Arosa 649 Kanzelhöhe 533 Mont Soleil 594 Flüelapass 650 Gerlitzen 534 Noirmont 595 Ofenpass 651 Oberst-Klinke Hütte 535 Montfaucon 596 Albulapass 652 Hochkar-Gleischlägerhaus 536 Sur la Croix 597 Julierpass 653 Sölkpaß 537 Weissenstein 598 Juf 654 Gleinalmsattel 538 Balmberg Passhöhe 599 Berninapass 655 Lammersdorfer Berg 539 Passwang 656 Gaberlsattel 540 Regensberg Lichtenstein 657 Klippitztörl 541 Bachtel 600 Malbun 658 Magdalensberg 542 Hauta-Chia 659 Großer Speikkogel 543 Col de Jaman Austria 660 Eisenkappler Hütte 544 Col des Mosses 601 Millrütte 661 Seeberg Sattel 545 Col de la Croix 602 Furkajoch 662 Weinebene 546 Jaunpass 603 Schattenlagant 663 Jauerling 547 Gurnigel 604 Hochtannbergpaß 664 Grubberg 548 Glaubenbergpass 605 Berwang 665 Zellerain 549 Glaubenbüelenpass 606 Hahntennjoch 666 Bürgeralm 550 Ächerlipass 607 Bielerhöhe 667 Rohrer Sattel 551 Melchsee-Frutt 608 Möseralm 668 Hocheck 552 Engstlenalp 609 Pillerhöhe 669 Hohe Wand 553 Etzelpass 610 Kühtai 670 Preiner Gscheid 554 Pragelpass 611 Ehrwalderalm 671 Sonnwendstein 555 Stoss 612 Kaunertal 672 Stuhleck 556 Schrina-Hochrugg 613 Rettenbachtal

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673 Schanzsattel 732 Cascata del Toce 789 Abazzia di Montecassino 674 Auf dem Straßegg 733 Il Mottarone 790 Campitello Matese 675 Ebenwald-Parkplatz 734 Passo Cuvignone 791 Sella di Perrone 735 Campo dei Fiori 792 Monte Taburno Italy 736 San Martino 793 Monte Vergine 676 Breuil-Cervinia 737 Passo del Gran San Bernardo 794 Vesuvio 677 Colle San Carlo 738 Monte Bisbino 795 Monte Nerone 678 Colle del Nivolet 739 Monte Legnoncino 796 Picco Sant'Angelo 679 Colle Sommeiller 740 Monte Croce di Muggio 797 Monte Faito 680 Colle delle Finestre 741 Madonna del Ghisallo 798 Cima Mutali 681 Colle Braida 742 Giogo di Bala 799 Monte Vulture 682 Pian del Re 743 Passo Coe 800 Monte Sacro o Gélbison 683 Colle dell' Agnello 744 Rifugio Alpo 801 Monte Armizzone 684 Colle di Sampeyre 745 Passo di Tremalzo 802 Colle del Dragone 685 Il Fauniera 746 Prati di Nago 803 Serra di Tuono 686 Colle di Tenda 747 Punta Veleno 804 Passo Crocetta 687 Prato Nevoso 748 Colle Garezzo 805 Botte Donato 688 Passo dello Spluga 749 Poggio di San Remo 806 Colle d'Ascione 689 Menarola 750 La Cipressa 807 Stazione Forestale-Latteria 690 Passo di San Marco 751 Colma di Sormano 808 Monte Sirino 691 Rifugio Barbara Lowrie 752 Passo di Melogno 809 Passo de Pietra Spada 692 Val Malenco 753 Monte Beigua 810 Monte Alto Cocuzza 693 Passo del Vivione 754 Passo del Faiallo 811 Portella di Bova 694 Passo del Mortirolo 755 Passo della Bocchetta 812 Erice 695 Passo di Foscagno 756 Monte Penice 813 Monte Pellegrino 696 Passo di Gavia 757 Passo del Ghiffi 814 Piano Battaglia Carbonara 697 Passo dello Stelvio 758 Colle dei Due Santi 815 Portella Femmina Morta 698 Val Martello 759 Passo del Cirone 816 Portella dello Zoppo 699 Val Senales 760 Passo Lagastrello 817 Sella Mandrazzi 700 Passo di Monte Giovo 761 Passo di Pradarena 818 Castelmola 701 Passo di Pennes 762 San Pellegrino in Alpe 819 Etna 702 Merano 2000 763 Abetone 820 Balestrieri 703 Passo delle Palade 764 Croce Arcana 821 Passo Punta Masiennera 704 Passo della Mendola 765 Passo della Futa 822 Sporting Club Monte Spada 705 Val Genova 766 Passo la Calla 823 Arcu Correboi 706 Monte Bondone 767 Passo dei Mandrioli 824 Genna Silana 707 Passo Manghen 768 Valico Monte Fumaïolo 825 Serpeddi 708 Torri del Vajolet 709 Plan de Corones San Marino Poland 710 Passo delle Erbe 769 San Marino 826 Przehyba 711 Passo di Gardena 827 Przelecz Okraj 712 Passo di Sella Italy 828 Przelecz Salmopolska 713 Passo Pordoï 770 Santuario della Verna 829 Przelecz Krowiarki 714 Passo di Fedaïa 771 Bocca Trabária 830 Glodowka 715 Passo di Valparola 772 Monte Amiata Ukraine 716 Passo di Giau 773 Monte Argentario 831 Pereval Užhokskiy 717 Passo Duran 774 Montelupone 832 Bukovel › Áóêîâåëü 718 Forcella Cibiana 775 Sella di Leonessa 833 Pereval Vyshkivskiy 719 Tre Cime di Lavaredo 776 Forca Canapine 834 Pereval Nikitskiy 720 Monte Zoncolan 777 Forca di Presta 835 Ai-Petri › Àé-Ïåòðè 721 Monte Paularo 778 Gran Sasso d'Italia 722 Passo del Cason di Lanza 779 Campo Felice Czech Republic 723 Sella Carnizza 780 Monte Perone 836 Vrbatova Bouda 724 Mataïur 781 Campo Staffi 837 Špindlerova Bouda 725 Piancavallo 782 Campo Catino 838 Suchý vrch 726 Passo Tomba 783 Passo del Diavolo 839 Cervenohorské Sedlo 727 Monte Grappa 784 Forca d'Acero 840 Pradìd 728 Passo Porte del Pasubio 785 Valico Monte Godi 841 Pancír 729 Passo di Campogrosso 786 Blockhaus della Maïella 842 Klet' 730 Alpe Cheggio 787 Monte Carpegna 788 Monte Sant'Angelo 731 Alpe Rossonbolmo

11 BIG Review 2013

Slovakia 940 Rožen Manastir 843 Tatliakovo jazero Bosnia-Herzegovina 941 Popski Preslop 844 Sedlo Certovica 890 Kupreška Vrata 942 Snežhanka 845 Slieszky Dom 891 Makljen 846 Martinské Hole 892 Mrakovica Albania 847 Skalka 893 Jahorina 943 Rožafá 848 Sitno 894 Metaljka 944 Qafá ë Llogorasë 849 Panske Sedlo 895 Cemerno Cyprus Hungary Serbia 945 Chryssorrogiatissa 850 Dobogóko 896 Mount Avala 946 Makarios Grave 851 Galyateto 897 Iriski Venac 947 Olympus 852 Kékesteto 898 Kapaonik 948 Adelphi 853 Pannonhalma 899 Vincina Voda 949 Makheras 854 Felsõ-Borovnyák 950 Stavrovoùni Montenegro 855 Misina 900 Cakor Out of Europe Romania 901 Orjen 951-1000 856 Pasul Prislop 902 Durmitor Sedlo 857 Pasul Tihuta 903 Njegošev Mausolej 858 Pasul Ciumarna 904 Crkvine 859 Pasul Rarãu Macedonia 860 Pasul Bicaz 905 Popova Sapka 861 Páltinis 906 Bukovo 862 Pasul Bàlea 907 Babuna Pass 863 Pasul Bran 864 Stana de Vale Greece 865 Pasul Bratocea 908 Vitsi 909 Lailias ski center Georgia 910 Pissoderi ski center 1876 Goderdzi pass 911 Hortiatis 1877 Zagar pass 912 Seli ski center Russian Federation 913 Pantokrator 866 Ex-Ussr 01 914 Prionia-Olympos › 867 Ex-Urss 02 915 Megalo Papingo 868 Ex-Urss 03 916 Katara Pass 869 Ex-Urss 04 917 Great Meteoro 870 Ex-Urss 05 918 Pliasidhi 871 Ex-Urss 06 919 Velouchi ski center 872 Ex-Urss 07 920 Mount Didima 873 Ex-Urss 08 921 Fterolaka ski center 874 Ex-Urss 09 922 Enos de Kefalonia 875 Ex-Urss 10 923 Apollo Epikourios 924 Mycenae Citadel Slovenia 925 Karabola-Parnitha 876 Vršic 926 Oligirtos 877 Rogla 927 Kosmas Pass 878 Mariborsko Pohorje 928 Langáda Pass 879 Crnivec 929 Omalos 880 Mangrtško Sedlo 930 Akones 881 Pavlicevo Sedlo 931 Idéón Antron 932 Giouhtas Croatia 933 Asfendilia 882 šljeme 934 Dikteon Andre 883 Ucka Vojak 884 Motovun Bulgaria 885 Vratnik 935 Aleko-Vitosha 886 Óltare 936 Trojanski Prohod 887 Stara Vrata 937 Sipcenski Prohod 888 Nevoljas Pass 938 Maljovica Complex 889 Sveti Jure 939 Rilski Manastir

12 BIG Review 2013

2012 Classements

VAN HECKE BRUFFAERTS 33 381 66 265 GENERAL CLASSEMENT Marnix Jose MONTEFUSCO 34 COSIALS Xavier 365 67 264 1 LUCAS Eric 1000 Claudio 35 DEJACE Jules 365 2 MAYEUR Etienne 1000 68 KOOL Martin 262 36 OTEMAN Luc 359 JACQUEMIN 69 GILLODES Alain 262 3 758 Alain MORALES 37 358 GARCIA A. 70 LALOUX Michel 260 4 VAN ELS Wim 712 38 PIRET Véronique 357 71 SVEHLIK Karel 260 5 SPEED Kevin 687 BERASATEGI 72 PELISSIER Michel 258 JACQUEMIN 39 349 6 682 Ruben Dominiq. JACQUEMIN JACQUEMIN 73 256 40 346 Julien 7 TAYLOR Martin 676 Gilles SAINZ-PENA Luis VAN AMEIJDEN 41 SEGUY Marc 336 74 255 8 622 M. Richard 42 CHOZAS Eduardo 331 75 EPIARD Christian 252 9 BRENNER Karl 604 VANSTIPHOUT SCHILLEMANS 43 319 76 251 10 OOSTRA Ard 565 Domi Coen FRANCK Jacques 11 SPINA Luigi 552 44 CANDELI Luigi 312 77 251 (+) 12 RAFOLS Frederic 547 45 WINTER Charles 311 BENISTRAND 78 250 DUPEYROUX Claude ESCUER 46 310 13 527 Olivier BRUNETTI MESTRES N 79 250 CAPELLANI Gabriele CANDAU 47 302 14 495 Luigi DEVRIES Maarten François 80 247 (X) 15 VERLAET Johan 479 48 SALA Roger 302 81 ARTS Albert 244 16 NOTTEN Peter 469 49 BOYENK Arnold 301 BRUGMAN, LAVIEVILLE 82 243 17 TORELLI Cecilia 454 50 300 Meindert Bernard 83 BEEKMAN Aart 242 18 BRIOLLET Daniel 454 51 MENARD Michel 298 84 ALBERINI Enrico 241 19 HUL Philip 447 52 DEWEZ Rudy 296 85 HERNOT Bertrand 236 20 SOMMER Claudia 428 53 ADAM Jean-Pierre 294 GIACOMAZZI OLDEMAN FROGNEUX 86 236 21 426 54 293 Daniele Gerrit-R. Bernard 87 HANSEN Rob 235 22 PLAINE Patrick(+) 424 55 PEETERS Marc 292 SASTRE CANDIL CATTANEO JACQUEMIN 88 235 23 421 56 291 C. Luciano Renaud ANTXUSTEGI NOTTEN Jean- 89 234 24 421 57 SOLENNI Gianni 290 Aitor Pierre 90 MICHIELS Ludo 233 25 PARTHOENS Jean 411 58 HINK Mark 288 RECKHAUS 59 CIJSOUW Jakob 287 91 WILLEM Luc 233 26 405 Juergen 60 NILSON Jerry 283 92 HOCHULI Olivier 233 RUIZ-OPITZ 27 405 Mario NIMMEGEERS DEMAESSCHAL 61 280 93 231 Stefaan CK P. 28 HILSON Daniel 400 VANDENBUSSC GEENENS 62 280 94 230 29 LINNERT Heiko 400 HE T. Germain (+) VAN 63 GRIMSTVEIT Leif 276 95 KOEDIJKER Hans 230 30 397 LONKHUYZEN 64 MATTE Jean-Luc 275 96 DECROUY Gérard 227 31 BOSDIJK Rob 393 CASOLARI 97 SZILAGYI Andras 225 65 268 32 GOBERT Daniel 382 Bortolomeo

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BIG Review 2013

98 KUBELE Petr 223 133 BOGAERT Luc 184 SMOUT Jean- VAN SCHAIK 99 223 134 183 Louis Ronald 100 DEMIGUEL Jesus 222 135 MOGA Claudiu 183 VIERFOND MAREUIL 101 221 136 182 Mickael Bernard 102 GACON Bernard 221 137 BIANCHI Simone 179 VAN DE 103 220 138 BERTING Tom 178 WOUWER K. 139 BERTING Corrie 178 104 DESENDER Marc 220 VANDENKIEBOO 140 SIRET Françoise 175 105 217 M G. 141 CHARY Denise 174 106 MAGRI Domenico 215 VON 142 173 DELAHAIE HEYDEBRECK A 107 215 LIONEL DE WALEFFE 143 172 108 JANSEN Axel 214 Vincent VERKUIJLEN 144 CORNE Jean 170 109 213 Tineke GASPAROROCCA 145 169 110 SCHUYER Roland 212 S(+) 146 LEBACQ Bernard 168 111 KREICSI Gabor 205 ODENA 147 BLONK Patrick 168 112 205 TORRENT X. 148 GUILLEM Jaume 166 113 TALLOEN Esteban 203 149 DHONDT Etienne 166 OPOLECKY 114 200 Hynek 150 GUERRY patrick 166 DEMIGUEL 115 200 151 BERNER Max 166 Juanjo BERNEGGER SCHILLEWAERT 116 198 152 166 Klaus Pierre HUNZIKER 153 GIELEN Walter 165 117 198 Hanspeter MAYEUR TIMMERMANS 154 164 118 198 Raymond(+) John TIMMERMANS 119 197 Wil 120 SALA Chantal 197

121 SUPLICZ Ferenc 193

122 OH Luddo 193

123 BERNARD Patrick 191 DECOSTRE 124 190 Arnaud 125 LLUSA MAS Jordi 190 DEKKERS 126 190 Helmuth 127 GOLL Marcel 188

128 COGGE Marc 187

129 RUDAZ Andre 186

130 DAVID Lionel 185

131 BAFICO Emanuele 185

132 SCHOKKER R 184 14

BIG Review 2013

2012 YEAR CLASSEMENT

1 TAYLOR Martin 124 37 MONTEFUSCO Cl 39 IRONBIG CLASSEMENT 2 MOGA Claudiu 104 38 HUL Philip 37 1 MENARD Michel 17 3 BOSDIJK Rob 96 39 BERASATEGI R 35 2 MAYEUR Etienne 7 3 JANSEN Axel 6 4 BRIOLLET Daniel 93 40 CHARBONNIER R 35 4 GOBERT Daniel 6 FROGNEUX 5 DEKKERS Helmuth 5 5 87 Bernard 41 ELLAURI IB. M 34 6 SPINA Luigi 4 7 KREICSI Gabor 4 6 SPINA Luigi 86 42 KUBELE Petr 33 8 PUSKAS Aladár 3 7 SPEED Kevin 86 43 VALLEJO PARTE. 33 9 COUCKE Raphaël 3 10 CASTAGNOLI Giordano 3 8 RECKHAUS Juerg. 82 44 ANDELT Radek 33 11 HOCHULI Olivier 3 12 WEYTMANS Christiaan 3 9 ESCUER MESTR. N 80 45 BETTA Enrico 33 13 CATTANEO Luciano 3 14 EUSSEN Thomas 3 10 RAFOLS Frederic 78 46 NILSON Jerry 33 15 NIJSTEN Stan 3

11 CANDAU François 76 47 SPEICH Mike 33

12 SZILAGYI Andras 70 48 VONHEYDEBRECK A 33

13 TORELLI Cecilia 70 49 SEGUY Marc 32

14 SASIK Rastislav 67 50 LOPEZ ROBLES Cr 32

15 HILSON Daniel 66 WOMEN CLASSEMENT 16 CATTANEO Luc. 63 1 ESCUER MESTRES Nuria 527 26 MAAS Marlou 88 2 TORELLI Cecilia 454 27 DONDERS Patricia 82 17 LINNERT Heiko 59 3 SOMMER-Brenner Claudia 428 28 SCHNEIDER Irene 81 4 PIRET Véronique 357 29 DREDEMY Marie 78 18 SOLENNI Gianni 57 5 VANSTIPHOUT Dominique 319 30 KOCH Julia 78 6 VERKUIJLEN Tineke 213 31 DIETEREN Nicole 75 19 DE GROOT Johan 55 7 SALA Chantal 197 32 CAILLE Nadège 72 33 HILD Marie-Paule 69 20 JACQUEMIN Alain 55 8 TIMMERMANS Wil 197 9 BERTING Corrie 178 34 ZAAL Brenda 68 21 NOTTEN Peter 50 10 SIRET Françoise 175 35 GEORGE Nathalie 68 11 CHARY Denise 174 36 KISS Anette 58 22 OOSTRA Ard 50 12 VON HEYDEBRECK Anja 173 37 JACQUEMIN Elise 56 13 ANGERER Elisabeth 162 38 NAGY Andrea 52 23 JACQUEMIN Domi 49 14 LONGO Jeannie 156 39 GROOT Heleen 52 40 JEANMART Corinne 51 24 VANSTIPHOUT D 49 15 BENISTRAND Catherine 134 16 BOKHORST Jantine 126 41 JEANMART Brigitte 51 25 MORENO GARC A 47 17 HAYCRAFT Anne 116 42 FUSTER FOZ Maria 51 18 VEUL Ria 111 43 RAVENSBERGEN Margriet 47 26 GUIJARRO ORD R 47 19 CROZAZ Pascale 110 44 THOMASER Rosa Maria 47 45 MAURET Nathalie 46 VAN SCHAIK 20 STOELZAET Jamien 107 27 46 46 GALACHE Frances 45 Ronald 21 GROUX Michele 106 22 JACQUEMIN Odile 103 47 EBEL Emilie 44 VAN AMEIJDEN 28 44 23 HOPPE Ulla 103 48 PASMAN Roeline 44 Richard 24 CORNET Bernadette 102 49 PEÑA CATAN Monica 43 29 LINNERT Finn 43 25 BERTHELIER Patricia 95 50 HUSSON Olga 43

MORALES 30 42 GARCIA 31 MAGRI Domenico 42

32 SCHNEIDER Irene 42

33 WEYTMANS Chr. 42

34 HOPPE Ulla 40

35 VAN DER SLUIJS 39

36 VERLAET Johan 39

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BIG Review 2013

THE YEARLY CLASSEMENTS – PALMARES 1985 3 JACQUEMIN Dominique 45 2003 1 VAN AMEIJDEN Richard claims 1 VAN HECKE Marnix 58 39 claims claims BIG 2 LONGO Jeannie 32 claims 1994 2 HUL Philip 52 claims BIG 3 MAYEUR Etienne 22 claims 1 JACQUEMIN Dominique 38 3 LUCAS Eric 42 claims claims 1986 2 LUCAS Eric 38 claims BEG 2004 1 CHATEL Pierre 22 claims 3 JACQUEMIN Alain 33 1 VAN AMEIJDEN Richard 2 BERNARD Patrick 19 claims claims 45 claims 3 VAN AMEIJDEN Richard 2 DEMIGUEL Juanjo 39 19 claims 1995 claims 1 LUCAS Eric 64 claims BEG 3 DEMIGUEL Jesus 39 claims 1987 2 JACQUEMIN Dominique 49 1 VAN DEN BREE Fred 21 claims 2005 claims 3 MAYEUR Etienne 38 claims 1 LUCAS Eric 53 claims 2 VAN AMEIJDEN Richard 2 DEJACE Jules 46 claims 20 claims 1996 3 HINK Mark 38 claims 3 MEIRESONNE Jaap 18 1 MAYEUR Etienne 35 claims claims BEG 2006 2 JACQUEMIN Dominique 34 1 VAN AMEIJDEN Richard 1988 claims 77 claims 1 MAYEUR Etienne 28 claims 3 JACQUEMIN Alain 32 2 LUCAS Eric 73 claims BEG 2 JACQUEMIN Alain 22 claims 3 MARIANI Danilo 60 claims claims 3 RUIZ-OPITZ Mario 21 1997 2007 claims 1 MAYEUR Etienne 52 claims 1 LEUFKENS Jos 125 claims 2 SPINA Luigi 19 claims BIG 2 LUCAS Eric 91 claims 1989 3 HERNOT Bertrand 18 claims 3 HARLE Guy 70 claims 1 JACQUEMIN Dominique 42 claims 1998 2008 2 JACQUEMIN Alain 42 cl 1 MAYEUR Etienne 41 claims 1 CANDAU François 135 3 MAYEUR Etienne 33 claims 2 PRUIJSEN Rolf 38 claims claims 3 FARAZIJN Peter 30 claims 2 HILSON Daniel 91 claims 1990 3 JACQUEMIN Gilles 77 1 JACQUEMIN Alain 51 1999 claims claims 1 SAINZ-PENA Luis Miguel 2 MAYEUR Etienne 44 claims 69 claims 2009 3 JACQUEMIN Dominique 37 2 MAYEUR Etienne 36 claims 1 VAN ELS Wim 172 claims claims 3 TAYLOR Martin 24 claims 2 SPINA Luigi 172 claims 3 TORELLI Cecilia 161 claims 1991 2000 1 MAYEUR Etienne 104 1 HUL Philip 34 claims 2010 claims 2 VAN AMEIJDEN Richard 1 BOSDIJK Rob 153 claims 2 JACQUEMIN Alain 61 28 claims 2 TAYLOR Martin 151 claims claims 3 BORSJE Martin 26 claims 3 VAN ELS Wim 121 claims 3 JACQUEMIN Dominique 50 claims 2001 2011 1 OOSTRA Ard 48 claims 1 MAYEUR Etienne 154 1992 2 HUL Philip 47 claims claims 1 JACQUEMIN Dominique 50 3 VAN ELS Wim 39 claims 2 TAYLOR Martin 136 claims claims 3 RECKHAUS Juergen 108 2 MAYEUR Etienne 42 claims 2002 claims 3 JACQUEMIN Alain 31 1 LUCAS Eric 50 claims claims 2 HUL Philip 36 claims 2012 3 VAN AMEIJDEN Richard 1 TAYLOR Martin 124 claims 1993 33 claims 2 MOGA Claudiu 104 claims 1 LUCAS Eric 56 claims 3 BOSDIJK Rob 96 claims 2 WINTER Charles 45 claims

16 BIG Review 2013

Classement over the years / Classement à travers toutes les années 1: Wim Van Els et Luigi Spina 172 3: Etienne Mayeur 154 4: Cecilia Torelli 161 5: Rob Bosdijk 153 6: Martin Taylor 151 7: François Candau 135 8: Jos Leufkens 125 9: Juergen Reckhaus et Claudiu Moga 104

Analysis We can see all over the years that an incredible increasing happened in the maximum of claims a year. Etienne opened the way in the early 90's but in the last years the amount of claims over 100 a year are legions. Very numerous. The last 6 years, every time many members claimed largely over this round number. The beginning showed some same names every year. Those names are always now on the top of the general classement. Their main characteristic is the regularity. Some other ones came afterwards and made incredible scores with the marvelous battle between Luigi and Wim, ending with a friendly draw in the year 2009. One of the best pages in the B.I.G's history on my own. The amazing highest scores mean that more than one day on two, the member climbed a big during this full year. Do you imagine climbing one big yourself one day on three or one day on four ? That's what they did. It's a challenge, it's a feat ! Of course, this classement is just like the other ones, just behind the main general classement, counting the total of bigs claimed in one's life. But other classements help to find motivation and to stimulate the passion that we have all inside ourselves once again. It's a tremendous life, always reacted by a new idea of climbing, by a new classement, by a new social subscription in an association. Cycloclimbing is a battle of every year of our life, showing to those who know us that we have this kind of spirit inside ourselves, for always.

Luigi Spina Wim van Els

17 BIG Review 2013

Charts and Stats of the BIG-challenge in 2012

Do you know that in the year 2012 ...????

In the meetings  41 members took part in the Tatras meeting somewhere  22 members took part in the regional hungarian meeting  22 members took part in the regional german meeting  11 members took part in the Ironbig-day in the Cauberg.

About the evolution of the amount of members  2003 : 277 (+84)  2004 : 360 (+83)  2005 : 440 (+80)  2006 : 535 (+95) This period shows some stability in the increasing during the life of our  2007 : 634 (+98) old website (subscription through an excel file to fill personally)  2008 : 1863 (+1229)  2009 : 2665 (+802) This period shows a big boom with an higher yearly increasing than  2010 : 3398 (+733) before but a decreasing of those increasing numbers.  2011 : 3992 (+694)  2012 : 4424 (+432)

Quality of the increasing (active members) Members with more than 500 bigs : 3 (end 2007) --> 13 (end 2012)

Members with more than 164 bigs : 70 (end 2007) --> 154 (end 2012)

Members with more than 30 bigs : 398 (end 2007) --> 1361 (end 2012)

Yearly classement Largely more than 1.000 members claim each year at least one new big. 1144 precisely in the year 2012 with 319 members claiming more than 10 bigs inside those twelve months. Attention please ! Those classements only ranked those who declared the year of their claims.

Contributions 139 contributors in 2008 for 259 in 2012. It increased but it was 8% of the members in 2008 against only 5% in 2012.

Visitors in the website The amount of visitors in the year 2012 is simply 67.190 visitors. That means around 200 different visitors a day with 350 real visits inside those 24 hours (some are coming back in the website the same day after a first visit).

The average visit is a visit long of a time located between 5 and 15 minutes. They are surfing in approximatively 25 pages inside our challenge's website. The main months are the summer ones. The main hours are at 1PM and at 8PM everyday.

18 BIG Review 2013

Clothes Ordered in 2012 :  11 jerseys  6 shorts  2 pirat pans  13 ruckbags  3 gloves

Best BIG’s climbed  Alpe d'Huez 1684  Col du Galibier 1640  Mont Ventoux 1570  Cauberg 1349  Col de la Croix-de-Fer 1317  Keutenberg 1258  Eyserbos 1215  Drielandenpunt 1214  Côte de la Redoute 1213  Gulpenerberg 1140

Women 193 women are ranked in our classement.

Godfathers There are 175 godfathers  61 in 2010  37 in 2011  77 in 2012

Forum 298 members subscribed in the forum 4176 posts Record : 2382 in the magyar forum

Newsletters Since the beginning, 20 newsletters had been edited That means more than 100 different newsletters, according to the different languages

Countries Here are the countries with more than 1000 claims all together among the fellowcountrymen

 Netherlands 44355  Switzerland 3170  Belgium 30088  Czech Republic 2966  France 21238  Hungary 2763  Italy 15158  England 2339  Spain 14448  Poland 1118  Germany 7298

19 BIG Review 2013

Plan B.I.G 2013-2014 Just like we promised before, we'll explain you our way to work and manage the B.I.G challenge in the coming two years 2013-2014 in 4 points : the committee, the website, the targets and the general philosophy. Comme promis, nous allons vous expliquer notre plan de travail et d'organisation pour les deux années 2013 et 2014 à venir en 4 points : le comité, le site web, les objectifs et la philosophie générale.

1. The committee 1. Le comité

No change in the Leading Committee. Aucun changement dans le Comité Directeur.

Some national managers left us for personal reasons or simply Quelques délégués nationaux sont partis pour des raisons because they don't feel so useful at this place during the last two personnelles ou simplement parce qu'ils ne se sentaient guère years. Some other ones are coming in their national group. There utiles à ce poste durant les deux dernières années. D'autres y are still places to be taken. arrivent et il reste des places à prendre.

Etienne Mayeur and Axel Jansen will organize the meeting 2013 Etienne Mayeur et Axel Jansen organiseront le rendez-vous 2013 in the Belgian Ardennes. Claudio Montefusco will organize the dans les Ardenne belges. Claudio Montefusco organisera le meeting 2014 in Catalogna. rendez-vous 2014 en Catalogne.

The material managers don't move (webmaster, clothes, Les délégués pour le matériel ne changent pas (webmaster, trophees, zone12, review, stickers) vêtements, trophées, zone12, revue, autocollants) Les délégués pour la base de données ont un nouvel apport en la The database managers have a new coming delegate to whom we personne de Daniel Briollet à qui nous adressons nos voeux de send our welcome and our great thank for a laborious job : bienvenue et qui se chargera de la lourde tâche de corriger les Daniel Briollet. He will correct the faults observed in the erreurs constatées dans cette base de données. Les autres database. The other ones stay on their place. conservent leur poste.

Le groupe filtre reste en fonction avec nos deux lauréats de la The filter group will stay with our 2 winners of the superliste1000 afin de filtrer les requêtes concernant des superlist1000, to dispatch your requests about the database and modifications dans la superliste et d'aider la constitution des to overview the building of the national challenges. The judges listes en vue des challenges nationaux. Les juges de la liste of the list disappear for 2 years because there will be, as stated disparaissent pour deux ans, vu qu'il n'y aura aucun changement, two years ago, no more change in the superlist until 2015. comme décidé il y a deux ans, jusqu'en 2015.

L' équipe du bulletin voit la sortie de notre secrétaire qui va The newsletter team saw the exit of our secretary who will work oeuvrer différemment dorénavant pour le B.I.G. Le bulletin, differently for the challenge and will have a new shape for the toujours trimestriel aura une nouvelle configuration, sera plus newsletter in 2013 and 2014, always threemonthly, but shorter court et sera composé de tweets, vidéos et photos, classements with tweets, videos and photos, classements showing the établissant un résumé des trois derniers mois. Nos traducteurs summary of the last three months. There are still several sont toujours au poste mais nous avons besoin d'autres translators but we need some other ones to translate those short traducteurs pour traduire ces petits tweets dans toutes les langues tweets into all the languages of the website with a start in english de notre site à partir du français ou de l'anglais tous les trois or french language. mois.

Finally a good strong team with old committee's members and Finalement, un bon compromis entre anciens et nouveaux new ones. With query of new national managers and translators. membres avec juste deux requêtes pour de nouveaux délégués nationaux et de nouveaux traducteurs.

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BIG Review 2013

2. The website in 2013-2014 2. Le site web en 2013-2014

1) National challenges 1) Challenges nationaux * Opening of the two promised pages (list+classement) for every * Ouverture des deux pages promises (liste+classement) pour stampelled B.I.G new national challenge (january 2013) tout nouveau challenge national labellisé BIG ( janvier 2013) 2) Newsletters new shape 2) Nouvelle forme des bulletins * Opening of a new, more automatic, more simple and shorter * Ouverture d'une nouvelle présentation des bulletins shape for the threemonthly newsletter (march 2013) trimestriels, plus automatiques, plus courts et plus efficaces 3) PDF roadbook 3) PDF livre de bord * Creation of a PDF roadbook just like Passacol being able to be * Création d'un livre de bord en format PDF genre Passacol printed by a member when looking at some precise big of the imprimable par un membre qui désire les caractéristiques d'un ou superlist 1000 plusieurs bigs donnés 4) File to compare 4) Fichier pour comparer * Possibility to query the way to compare 4 or 5 given bigs of * Possibilité de chercher à comparer des bigs entre eux par un the superlist according to some definite criteria, under tables for tableau comparatif de données ou par des profils superposés sur datas and different profiles on the same graphic un même graphique 5) Cross hair function 5) Icône pointeur * To have a cross hair function on the profile that shows height, * Avoir un icone pointeur sur un profil qui montrerait les distance and possibly also the gradient. distances à parcourir, les altitudes et éventuellement les pourcentages de l'endroit pointé. 6) Neighbourhood maps and lists 6) Voisinage par listes et cartes * To be able to read the list of the bigs near a given city where a * A partir d'un endroit où nous nous trouvons, avoir la possibilité member stays, and if possible the link to the map. de demander une liste des bigs les plus proches indiqués sur une 7) Form for datas'faults carte * To create a form that members can fill to signalize faults in the 7) Formulaire pour les erreurs de la base de données database. * Editer un formulaire où nos membres peuvent nous signaler les erreurs constatées dans la base de données 8) Transfer more easy to GPS 8) Transfert plus simple vers les GPS * On the maps to be downloadable as GPX track for a GPS * Pouvoir télécharger à partir de la carte les tracés GPX pour une device. utilisation GPS. 9) Help for administration 9) Aide administrative * To allow them to find easily some query like all the emails of a * Permettre la recherche rapide de caractéristiques par le comité, same country,... comme la liste des emails de membres d'un même pays,... 10) Fixing of old problems 10) Fixation d'anciens problèmes * To allow the members to claim an old big, an internal mail to * Permettre aux membres de déclarer un ancien big, autoriser les contain a hyperlink,... hyperliens dans les mails internes au site,... 3. Our targets 2013-2014 3. Nos objectifs 2013-2014

TARGET 1 - Superlist 1000 stability OBJECTIF 1 - Superlist 1000 stabilité a) no change one/one until 31/12/2014 a) aucun changement un contre un jusqu'au 31/12/2014 b) updates and corrections of the faults in the current database, b) mises à jour et corrections des erreurs existant dans notre base slowly but surely, thank to the filter group which will dispatch de données, lentement mais sûrement, grâce au groupe filtre qui the requests of the members into those about changes in the list dispatchera les requêtes des membres entre celles qui concernent or about sides (filter group) and corrections to update ( Daniel des changements au sujet des versants (pour lui-même) et celles Briollet's work). qui demandent des corrections (travail de D.Briollet) c) A private site called Tribuweb in the committee will keep the c) maintien du site interne au comité Tribuweb qui conservera les track of those suggestions and corrections. traces de toutes ces requêtes et de leur suivi. Target 2 – Financial helps Objectif 2 – Aides financières a) Creation of PACKS with a price of of 50 €, giving the right to a) Création de LOTS B.I.G au prix de 50 €, donnant droit à la the subscription, the access to all the pages of the website, the cotisation, l'accès au site complet, la revue annuelle, le dernier annual review, the last diploma with a new design, a ruckbag and diplôme sous une nouvelle forme, un sac à dos B.I.G et enfin un a BIG-jersey shorts sleeves = value 81 € - that means 31 € won) maillot été B.I.G à manches courtes = valeur de 81 € - donc 31 € - WELCOME PACK in 2013 for the first 30 members paying 50 gagnés. € for it, who have only paid until yet a contribution of 5 € (not - LOT DE BIENVENUE en 2013 pour les 30 premiers membres more not less), and who will answer properly to 3 questions ayant payé 50 € pour ce lot, qui n'ont jusqu'à présent payé que about the BIG-challenge. (online in the website during january des cotisations à 5€ (ni plus ni moins) et qui répondront 2013) correctement à 3 questions sur le challenge B.I.G (à paraître sur - FIDELITY PACK in 2014 for the first 30 members paying 50 € le site en janvier) for it , who have paid a contribution of 15 € and more the last 5 - LOT DE FIDELITE en 2014 pour les 30 premiers membres years and who will answer properly to 3 questions about the ayant payé 50 € pour ce lot, qui ont payé les 5 dernières années BIG-challenge. (online in the website during january 2014) des cotisations d'au-moins 15€ et qui répondront correctement à b) Material help of 200 €/meeting to the annual meetings, thank 3 questions sur le challenge B.I.G (à paraître sur le site en janvier to the money won by the previous meetings. 2014) c) Material help of 200 € in one shot for new stickers more b) Aide matérielle de 200 €/rendez-vous pour les rendez-vous adapted against UV. annuels officiels, grâce à l'argent récolté par les boni des rendez- d) Websmaster's work around 500 €/year. vous précédents. TOTAL BUDGET: 3460 € for both years together. c) Aide matérielle de 200 € en une fois pour l'achat de nouveaux auto-collants meilleurs contre les UV. 21

BIG Review 2013

Target 3 – More functional informations d) Payement du webmestre budgétisé à 500 €/an a) translation of all the news (around 50 a year) in all the TOTAL BUDGET: 3460 € au total des deux années. languages of the website Objectif 3 – Informations plus fonctionnelles b) edition of a 2 pages-newsletter threemonthly in all the a) traductions de toutes les news (infos-environ 50 par an) dans languages of the website with more links and more titles and toutes les langues du site short descriptions but less texts than now. b) edition d'un bulletin trimestriel de 2 pages dans toutes les Target 4 Particular classements langues du site avec plus de liens, moins de textes qui seront a) New dynamism for the members lower in the classement sous forme de tweets, et des résumés clairs et efficaces. (under 100) with the edition of all the members before him until Objectif 4 - Classements particuliers the score of 100. a) Dynamisation des membres du classement général ayant b) Analysis if we'll introduce new classements instead of the moins de 100 bigs avec l'édition de tous les membres devant eux classements by age in the classement's page to motivate some jusqu'au score de 100, pour témoigner de leur remontée. particular mentalities inside our members, like the ones who b) Analyse du fait de savoir si on va remplacer les classements want to give honour to those who have climbed the most difficult par âge apparaissant dans la page des classements par des bigs, the most touristic ones, the most legendary ones,...) classements rejoignant des mentalités fort demandées, comme Target 5 - Parallel challenges ceux qui veulent mettre à l'honneur la valeur sportive de leurs a) Start of the national challenges with the introduction of 2 ascensions réalisées dans la liste, ou la valeur culturelle, voire pages for every new national challenge allowed : the list of the leur légende,... climbs and the general classement. Technical help for their Objectif 5 : Challenges parallèles external websites by imitation of the ironbig website. a) Lancement des challenges nationaux avec l'introduction de 2 pages pour chaque challenge national labellisé B.I.G : la liste des Target 6 – Preparation of the 2015 curve ascensions et le classement général de ce challenge. Aide a) contact one by one of the committee's and old committee's technique pour le site externe en imitation, s'ils le souhaitent, du members by the president site de l'ironbig. b) edition of a synthesis of those contacts at the end of the year Objectif 6 – Préparation du virage de 2015 2014 a) contacts individualisés par le président à ce sujet avec les c) management of a week-end meeting around a table during the membres nouveaux ou anciens du comité winter 2014-2015 to vote about this eventual curve and to thank b) edition d'une synthèse de ces contacts avant la fin 2014 the workers of the 30 first years of the challenge. c) organisation d'un rendez-vous autour d'une table pendant l'hiver 2014-2015 afin de voter au suejt de cet éventuel grand Target 7 – Website virage et d'honorer les membres actifs de ces 30 premières a) Website suited to the situation and ameliorated by following années. our designed points to manage (see 2/4 plan 2013-2014), Objectif 7 – Site web according to the financial plan too (see target 2) a) Site web adapté à la situation et amélioré en suivant les points déterminés dans le chapitre de notre plan 2013-2014 qui concernait le site web en accord avec notre plan financier (voir objectif 2) Target 8 – Clearer committee a) creation of jobs'descriptions to know better who is making Objectif 8 – Comité plus clair what and to whom the members must send a mail to have an a) création de descriptions de tâches afin de mieux savoir qui fait answer to their questions or a feedback to their suggestions. quoi et à qui doivent s'adresser les membres pour maximiser le retour à leurs questions ou suggestions. Target 9 – Value setting of our 1000 bigs Objectif 9 – Mise en valeur de notre superliste a) To give some reputation to our 1000 bigs, contacts with the a) Afin d'augmenter la réputation des bigs de notre superliste municipalities having the bigs inside, through the national 1000, prise de contact avec les municipalités possédant l'un d'eux managers, for inclusions in promotional touristic papers and sur leur territoire, pour les inclure dans leurs dépliants eventual roadsigns. touristiques, voire installer un panneau routier indiquant le numéro big et son nom. Target 10 – Contacts with other associations Objectif 10 – Contacts avec les autres associations First contacts with MDF, UIC, OCD,CCC,Cima, to look to Premiers contacts avec les associations MDF, UIC, eventual interests in the future of common meetings, beginning OCD,CCC,Cima, pour voir s'ils envisagent un intérêt with two associations only in 2016 and more later, if it works, an quelconque dans le futur à organiser en commun des rendez- eventual «one shot» great meeting. vous d'abord à deux associations dès 2016 puis un gigantesque grand rendez-vous collégial plus tard.

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BIG Review 2013

4. OUR GENERAL PHILOSOPHY 4. PHILOSOPHIE GENERALE a) NEVER COMMERCIAL a) JAMAIS COMMERCIAL Since the beginning, the B.I.G challenge always tried to be soft Depuis le commencement, le challenge B.I.G a toujours tenté de financially speaking, no sponsorship, no necessary need to pay to rester soft financièrement, sans sponsoring, sans absolue subscribe, no financial interest, with the goal to avoid the loss of nécessité de payer pour s'inscrire, sans intérêt financier, avec le our natural freedom to manage the challenge only by ourselves. but d'éviter la perte de notre liberté dans l'organisation par nous- b) BALANCE BETWEEN INCREASING AND STABILITY mêmes du challenge. The throwing of the website in the B.I.G-world increased very b) EQUILIBRE ENTRE CROISSANCE ET STABILISATION (too ?) rapidly the amount of members in the beginning of the Le lancement du site sur le web a provoqué une grande (trop?) 21st century. Now since 2010, we tried to stabilize and we'll wait croissance de nos membres d'un seul coup au début du 21e for 2015 before trying a new impulsion with an eventual new siècle. Maintenant, depuis 2010, nous avons tenté de freiner le boom of members, just before a new phase of stability, to enlarge mécanisme en privilégiant la stabilisation de nos structures. En our basis before giving it more fixed structure. 2015, nous redonnerons une nouvelle impulsion peut-être pour c) FRIENDS BEFORE, RANKED AFTERWARDS un nouveau boum, avant de stabiliser ce nouvel ensemble dans We always tried to give more importance to the tops to reach, une structure forte agissant sur une base élargie. than to the sides to ride. Of course, with some short walls, the c) AMIS D'ABORD, CLASSES ENSUITE side is important but those kinds of B.I.Gs are very few in our Nous avons toujours privilégié le sommet aux versants car c'est superlist. We reach points in a map with the pride to have le point sommet sur la carte qui compte. Le versant n'est reached them on the bike. The clasement isn't the main priority, vraiment essentiel qu'en cas de murs très courts, ce qui est assez but the experiences shared on the same places make us unified, rare dans la superliste. Pour le reste, seule la fierté de l'avoir fait even if our way to communicate is mainly virtual. Friends intervient. C'est pourquoi, même si nos rapports sont souvent before, ranked afterwards. internautiques et virtuels, nous privilégions le partage de d) OUR CRITERIA l'expérience commune au classement. Like the president will explain in the president's words in the d) NOS CRITERES beginning of the coming annual review, we show the cycling Comme le président va le rappeler au début de la revue annuelle world in its whole shape, through all its practices of à venir, nous avons toujours voulu être représentants de cycloclimbing. Forever, sport, tourism and legend will be inside l'entièreté du monde cycliste dans toutes ses formes et pratiques the B.I.G challenge, not only one of those topics. de la grimpette. Pour toujours, sport, tourisme et légende seront e) OUR PRINCIPLES associés sans jamais privilégier l'un des 3critères. Like we suggest for the coming lists of the national challenges e) NOS PRINCIPES and forever for the superlist, we have to keep in our mind for Comme nous l'avons indiqué de manière précise dans notre always the 5 principles of the lists of our favourite climbs, able réglement pour l'élaboration des listes nationales et pour le futur to be read in our rules. The large vision of those principles de notre superliste, nous devrons toujours correspondre aux 5 always give a good dispatching in our lists, avoiding the trend to principes du challenge. La large vision de ces principes a go to some very too precise cycling way of life. toujours donné à notre liste une bonne répartition, en évitant la tendance de se diriger de manière trop accrue vers une seule pratique cyclogrimpeuse.

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BIG Review 2013

Our legendary BIG’s

Some of our bigs are since a long time included in the classical races of one day, now in the spotlight through the world tour. Here are their names and their characteristics in the coming races of the year 2013.

Inside the classics, some bigs are since a long time in the races. For example, the Poggio in Milan – San Remo is the central place of the race every year. The Cipressa has been added since the 90's. Now, the Manie, just after the Turchino, first part of our Faiallo, has been also added. The tour of Flanders is quite different since last year . The Muur in Grammont was the central place before but it has been deleted, to give the place to a triple loop including Oude Kwaremont and Paterberg. Of course, the terrible Koppenberg made its office a little before. The GPE3 has kept the Muur and this Muur is also the final stage of the Eneco Tour now. The Gent-Wevelgem kept its loops with the Mont Cassel and the famous stones of the Kemmelberg. The labyrinth of the road in the Amstel Gold Race always lead the racers through plenty of climbs, including seven of our bigs and the final part with the wall of Keutenberg and the finish in Cauberg. The Flèche Wallone has always a triple loop passing by and finishing at the wall in Huy. Liège-Bastogne-Liège has a first terrible section with our Wanne and Stockeu, a middle section with our Rosier and Redoute, finishing now at Ans with climbs outside our list: Roche aux Faucons and Saint-Nicolas. The clasicà San Sebastian offers its double loop with the wellknown Alto de Jaizkibel up to the basque coast, in community with l'Alto de Arkalle. The Vatenfall Cyclassic in Hamburg shows a triple last loop with the short wall of Waseberg.

Inside, the three great tours in this year 2013, the trend seems to go to a final hard stage with difficult climbs just before the final stage like a criterium in the capital city. Tre Cime di Lavaredo before Milano, Crêt de Châtillon (Semnoz) before Paris and Angliru before madrid. It will keep the suspense until the end. Plenty of final tops among our bigs too, like Val Martello, Galibier and Tre Cime in the Giro ; Mont Ventoux, Alpe d'Huez and Crêt de Châtillon in the Tour and Peyresourde (Peyragude), Peña Cabarga and Angliru in the Vuelta.

Our bigs are always in front of the news every year. Our superlist is the list of the cycling world.

CLASSICS

Milan – San Remo

 Km 275 : La Cipressa (big 750)  Km 291,5 Poggio di San Remo (big 749)  Note : Passo del Turchino (km 142,5 = part of Passo dello Faiallo – big 754)

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Ronde van Vlaanderen

 km 177 – 218 - 238 : Oude-Kwaremont (big 115)  km 181 – 222 – 242 : Paterberg (big 116)  km 186 : Koppenberg (big 113)

Grote Prijs E3

 km 99 : Muur (kapellemuur Geraardsbergen – big 117)

Amstel Gold Race

 km 65,4 – 175 – 252,5 : Cauberg (big 104)  km 121 : Drielandenpunt (big 110)  km 128 : Vijlenerbos (big 109)  km 145 : 224 : Gulperberg (big 108)  km 157 : Oude Huls (big 107)  km 231: Eyserbosweg (big 106)  km 239 : Keutenberg (big 105) Gent – Wevelgem

 km 138 – 144 Mont Cassel (big 211)  km 162 – 199 Kemmelberg (big 112)

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Flèche Wallonne

 km 68 – 163 – 194 : Mur de Huy (big 125)

Liège-Bastogne-Liège

 km 160 : côte de Wanne (big 132)  km 166,5 : Stockeu (big 133)  km 185 : col du Rosier (big 131)  km 223 : côte de la Redoute (big 128)

Clasica San Sebastian

 km 157 – 196,2 : Alto de Jaizkibel (big 412)

Vatenfall cyclassic

 km 176,9 – 188,9 – 200,9 : Waseberg (big 151)

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TOURS

Giro d’Italia

 10a tappa : Cason di Lanza (big 722)  15a tappa : Mont Cenis (big 288) Col du Galibier (big 291)  16a tappa : Mont Cenis (big 288)  19a tappa : Passo di Gavia (big 696) Passo dello Stelvio (big 697) Val Martello (big 698)  20a tappa : Passo di Giau (big 716) Tre Cime di Lavaredo (big 719)

Tour de France

 8e étape : Col de Pailhères (big 357)  9e étape : Portet d'Aspet (big 288) Col de Mente (big 291) Col de Peyresourde (big 348) Col d'Azet (big 347)  15e étape : Mont Ventoux (big 301)  18e étape : Alpe d'Huez x2 (big 290)  19e étape : Croix-de-Fer (big 287) Col de la Madeleine (big 280) Col de la Croix-Fry (big 277)  20e étape : Mont Revard (big 267) Crêt de Châtillon (big 265)

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Vuelta a España

 11a etapa : El Moncayo (big 447)  14a etapa : Port d'Envalira (big 439) Coll de Ordino (big 437)  15a etapa : Coll de Cantò(big 428) Collado de la Bonaigua (big 426) Port de Balès (big 363) Col de Peyresourde (big 348)  18a etapa : Estacas de Trueba (big 406) Peña Cabarga (big 408  20a etapa : L'Angliru (big 393)

L’Angliru

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Dépenses et recettes 2012 Outcomings and incomings 2012

Tous les montants sont exprimés en Euro. All the amounts are expressed in Euro.

1) Situation au 31/12/2011 / Financial situation on the 31/12/2011

Solde du compte Fortis / Balance of the Fortis account 4343,23 Solde du compte PayPal / Balance of the PayPal account 102,87 Solde du compte “vêtements” / Balance of the “clothes” account 151,66 Stocks :  vêtements / clothes (valeur : 1922,00)  sacs à dos / rucksacks  auto-collants / stickers  ramettes de papier / paper sheets blocks  couvertures plastifiées / laminated covers  enveloppes / envelopes

Au 31/12/2011, il y avait 3987 membres dont 303 cotisants 2011. On the date of 31/12/2011, there were 3987 members, 303 of them were 2011 contributors.

2) Dépenses / Outcomings

Revues / Reviews 509,75 Diplômes et médailles / Diplomas and medals 202,04 Vêtements / Clothes 868,70 Frais postaux pour / Postage for :  revues / reviews 236,41  diplômes et médailles / diplomas and medals 24,75  vêtements / clothes 141,65 Total frais postaux / Total postage 402,81 Site Web / Website 399,30 Rendez-vous / Meeting 3764,17 Frais bancaires / Bank charges for :  Fortis 89,07  PayPal 84,06  Compte "vêtements" / "clothes” account 0,90 Total frais bancaires / Total bank charges 174,03

Total dépenses / Total outcomings 6320,80

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3) Recettes / Incomings

Cotisations / Contributions 3070,32 Vêtements / Clothes 1132,80 Rendez-vous / Meeting 4381,00 Intérêts Fortis / Fortis interest 1,90

Total recettes / Total incomings 8586,02

4) Situation au 31/12/2012 / Financial situation on the 31/12/2012

Solde du compte Fortis / Balance of the Fortis account 6241,26 Solde du compte PayPal / Balance of the PayPal account 382,81 Solde du compte “vêtements” / Balance of the “clothes” account 238,91 Stocks :  vêtements / clothes (valeur : 1942,50)  sacs à dos / rucksacks  auto-collants / stickers  ramettes de papier / paper sheets blocks  couvertures plastifiées / laminated covers  enveloppes / envelopes

Au 31/12/2012, il y avait 4424 membres dont 260 cotisants 2012. On the date of 31/12/2012, there were 4424 members, 260 of them were 2012 contributors.

Note : Une partie des paiements concernant le rendez-vous dans les Tatras (445,33) a été effectuée en 2011. Note : The payments concerning the meeting in the Tatras have been done partly (445,33) in 2011.

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Vier dagen BIGgenjacht in de Benelux (BIG 211). ‘s Avonds zocht ik zat op de fiets en daar waren Johan de GROOT uit hoe ik moest rijden. Wat gebakken eieren uit den boze. bleek? De B&B lag precies Voor mij maakte ze een Nou ja, de Benelux is niet midden tussen BIG 212, 111 en uitzondering en het smaakte me helemaal waar. Ik wilde starten 112. Ik wijzigde mijn plan. De prima. Om 8.15 uur op de fiets. in Noord Frankrijk bij BIG volgende dag dus direct na het Het was koud. Handschoenen 211. Het plan was om 25 BIG’s ontbijt op de fiets en daarna pas aan en regenjas over de te rijden in vier dagen. naar Mont Cassel. Vandaar fietskleding. Het was moeilijk Daardoor zou ik zone 3 hebben naar BIG 118 (een uur met de te kiezen, als kind in de volbracht en en passant ook auto) en dan BIG 114, 115 en BIGgenstal. De GPS besliste. Noord Frankrijk. 113. De dichtst bijzijnde voet van Woensdagmiddag, eind Eerst de avond maar eens een berg moest het maar zijn. november, vertrok ik uit genieten van Ajax. Dat was een Het werd de Rodeberg, BIG Groningen om vijf uur later op drama. 111-NE vanuit Reningelst. Een het Vlaamse platteland te lekker opwarmertje. Niet te eindigen bij B&B De Diligence De volgende ochtend een vroeg stijl, alleen het laatste stukje in Heuvelland de Klijte. Een ontbijt, zodat bij het krieken was 10%. En van de gebakken soort ranch, maar dan op z'n van de dag gestart kon worden. eieren had ik geen last. Vanaf Belgisch. De waardin vond gebakken de top richting Franse grens. Van daar was het ongeveer 30 eieren niet goed voor een Net daarvoor afgeslagen kilometer naar Mont Cassel wielrenner. Haar hele familie richting Westouter. Terug naar de top via een smal landweggetje. Ik zou er nog veel zien vandaag. Ik begreep eveneens waarom ze de wielerrondes in West- Vlaanderen 'strontkoersen' noemen. Terug aan de top opnieuw richting de grens, maar nu ook gepasseerd richting Mont Noir (BIG 212). Voor de Belgen de Zwarteberg. Deze was saaier dan de Rodeberg. Mont Noir ook van twee kanten gedaan, want ik was er toch. Daarna richting Kemmelberg (BIG 112). Dat werd een echte klim. Zelfs een stukje van 23% volgens het bord langs de kant van de weg. Op zich niet erg, maar op natte kasseien werd een ander verhaal. Vooral omdat ik wegbanden onder mijn mountainbike had gemonteerd. Iets te veel kracht en naar voren zitten en het achterwiel slipte door. Iets te veel achterop en ik maakte een pracht van een wheelie. Al balancerend toch mooi bovengekomen. Dat was weer kicken. Gezien de doelstelling van de dag om acht BIG’s te halen, maar geen tweede beklimming gedaan. Terug bij B&B stond de waardin al te

31 BIG Review 2013 wachten om een foto te maken (BIG 113). Ik ben niet snel er op. De volgende dag stond en te vragen hoe het ging. onder de indruk van een Wallonië op het programma. helling, maar dit gaf 'schrik', Daarna met de auto in een half zoals de Vlamingen zeggen. Er Iets later opgestaan, want de uurtje naar Cassel. Een schattig doemde echt een muur van bakker had niet eerder warm dorpje wat ik al vanuit de verte kasseien op die loodrecht brood. 8.30 uur op pad. Nog zag liggen boven op de heuvel. omhoog leek te gaan, omgeven drie kwartier rijden naar Huy. Mijn startplaats was Sainte- door aarden wallen en Een drukke plaats, waar Marie-Cappel. Een goed eindigend in een bos. Met 100 gelukkig net een parkeerplaats begaanbare weg, met op het km in de benen wordt het vrij kwam. In mijn herinnering eind van de klim uiteraard lastig. Gelukkig was het eerste was de muur van Huy (BIG kasseien. Wat was ik blij dat ik stuk droog. De ervaring van de 125) op tv veel breder, maar de racefiets niet had Kemmelberg kwam goed van dat viel tegen. Net als het meegenomen. Ook hier een pas op het laatste natte stuk. stijgingpercentage. Blij dat ik tweede kant (SW vanuit Boven aan de top vroeg ik mij boven was. Vanuit een koude Bavinchove) gedaan. Ik had af wat te doen. De zon ging start direct volle bak omhoog niet voor niets het hele eind bijna onder en doorrijden was niet het ideale begin van naar Noord Frankrijk gereden betekende ook een stuk de dag. Vanuit Huy naar Yvoir. en het paste nog in het omrijden. Dan maar over de Ik wilde BIG 120, 122 en 121 tijdschema. kasseien weer naar beneden. in een rit rijden. Tactisch Krijsende remmen, maar dat parkeerde ik bij de voet van La Om 12.30 uur weer in de auto liever dan vol onderuit. Gayolle (BIG 121) zodat ik bij richting Mont-St-Aubert (BIG Daarna weer over het nieuwe pech niet de maximale afstand 118). fietspad terug naar de terug zou hoeven te lopen. Ik Ook deze van twee kanten Kluisberg. Achteraf had ik dus stond geparkeerd bij een gedaan hoewel de startplaatsen helemaal niet door het bos naar marmerfabriek. Wat een troep! vlak bij elkaar liggen. De BIG 115 te gaan. Om bij de Om niet weer koud met de klim zuidwest kant is veel mooier. auto te komen was de kortste te starten fietste ik eerst langs Prachtige herfstkleuren werden weg vanaf de noordkant over de Maas naar Triple Mur zichtbaar terwijl ik over een de Kluisberg heen. Dus het Monty (BIG 120). Richting de landelijk strontweggetje reed. laatste klimmetje ging in de Maas lagen er ook nog een paar De tijd begon te dringen om schemering. steengroeven, dus de troep op nog voor zonsondergang de Daarna nog ruim een uur in de de weg was weer echt laatste drie BIG’s te doen. Vlug auto naar mijn nieuwe Belgisch. Mijn fiets zag er uit in de auto naar de voet van de slaapplaats. B&B Le Relais De als na een ochtendje crossen op Kluisberg (BIG 114S) Vandaar Charlinette in Boignée. Kon ik de Drentse heide. Langzaam uit begon het eenvoudig, maar in de auto eindelijk weer warm begon het te regenen. Na Huy het laatste stuk was glibberig worden. Het laatste uur was was Triple Mur Monty alweer van de natte bladeren. Boven koud geweest. Prima eten. Echt een smerig steile klim. aan de top direct door naar de wielrennersvoer. Pasta op z'n Bovenaan de regenjas aan en noordkant van de Oude Italiaans. West Vlaanderen zat via een bredere weg weer Kwaremont (BIG 115). De weg daar naar toe was op mijn GPS niet duidelijk, dus dan maar over een nat bospad vol met kuilen. Dat was het voordeel van een mountainbike. Ik kwam vanzelf weer bij asfalt. Eerst een heerlijke afdaling via de Ronse Baan naar Berchem. En daarna kon ik mijn lol wel op. Bijna de hele klim van 2 km bestond uit kasseien. Gelukkig niet te stijl. Bovenaan kon ik direct weer afdalen over die mooie weg naar Bechem. Vanuit Bechem liep een nieuw fietspad over een oude spoorbaan naar Melden. De startplaats van de Koppenberg

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verloor ik te veel tijd en het werd al schemerig. Côte d'Eschdorf moest maar wachten tot de volgende dag.

Overnachting in B&B Pommerloch. Een onpersoonlijker ruimte had ik nog niet meegemaakt. De douche was echter prima en de tv ook. Nog een stukje ‘The Voice’ gekeken en daarna was het ‘over and out’.

Zaterdag werd weer een drukke dag. Het plan was om zeven à acht BIG’s te doen, zodat ik zondag wat tijd over had om terug te rijden naar huis. Om 8.30 uur zat alweer op de fiets. Nu was Côte d'Eschdorf (BIG 142) aan de beurt. Ik startte vanuit het mooie plaatsje Esch- sur-Sure aan de rivier de Sure. Ook vandaag valt een koude start weer tegen. Ook bleek de weg naar Eschdorf afgesloten te zijn. Met de fiets op de nek liep ik honderd meter langs de opgebroken weg, waarna ik mijn tocht kon vervolgen. Via de noordoostelijke route daalde ik af naar mijn startplaats. Een prima weg voor een snelle afdeling. afgedaald richting de Maas. eerste 600 meter Ferme de Masseler (BIG 143) Wat een prachtig uitzicht! Op verschrikkelijk lastig, ook nog was een lekkere klim. Niet te de terugweg werd het kouder met een nat wegdek. steil, zodat er met een lekker en natter. In plaats van door te Gemiddeld 16,9 %! Boven was tempo tegenop gereden kon rijden naar Montagne de la het gewoon een koud, nat en worden. Meestal was er op een Croix in Dinant (BIG 122), winderig landbouwgebied. top nog wel iets te beleven, maar terug naar La Gayolle. Daar bleef ik niet voor mijn lol zoals een of ander monument. Deze klim is glad en stijl en het in november. Hier was helemaal niks. stinkt flink naar olie. Er liggen Gewoon een landweg door een veel oliesporen op de weg. Ook Vandaar naar Luxemburg. weiland. Waar de lichte stijging komt er nog langzaam een Omdat ik voor lag op het overging in een lichte daling tegenligger aan. Niet zomaar schema kon ik mooi nog bleek de top te zijn. Hoe simpel een auto, maar een grote Jardin-Tour Napoleón (BIG kon het zijn! Deze BIG was vrachtauto die naar beneden 141) meepakken. Wat een goed te combineren met kroop. Dan was een landpad verschil met België! Goed Bourscheid (BIG 140) want die met van die dijken langs de onderhouden weg, langere voet lag 3 km verder op. Op de kant wel lastig bij een stijging beklimming, maar minder stijl. een of andere manier liep deze van 17%. Gelukkig liet de Deze lag mij beter dan het klim niet. Bij het schrijven van vrachtauto nog wat ruimte steile werk in de Waalse dit stuk zag ik dat het over. Omdat het koud was op Ardennen. Het monument van gemiddelde 9,1 % was over een de top direct omgedraaid naar Napoleon werd verbouwd, dus lengte van 3,4 km en was het de auto. Onderweg naar was gesloten. Via een andere duidelijk waarom het tegen Montagne de la Croix lekker weg weer terug naar de auto. Ik viel. Boven op de berg was er opgewarmd. Dat was wel nodig wilde BIG 142 nog doen, maar weer een monument ter ere van want deze klim was vooral de door een wegomlegging Napoleon. Ook staat er de

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Arbre de Napoleon. In de abseilers bezig bij een buitentemperatuur was 11 specificatie van beide bijzondere rotsformatie. Terug graden en de wind speelde met startplaatsen zijn de afdalen was een genot. de herfstbladeren. Op de top aanduidingen Oost en West Eindelijk een droge weg en dan was het een grote leegte met verwisseld*. Via veel ook nog overzichtelijke mooi uitzicht. Prachtig al die binnenweggetjes naar Côte de bochten. Echt het toetje van de herfstkleuren. Munshausen (BIG 138). Omdat dag. Ik dacht tijd over te hebben, het beter op de route lag Ik sliep in het Duitse dorp dus deed ik de Birgerkraiz gekozen voor de lichtere Bollendorf. Vanuit Hotel (BIG 149) van beide kanten. zuidkant. Dit was echt Hauser zag ik aan de overkant Het voelde niet goed als geen makkelijk. Zeker omdat de van de rivier Luxemburg enkele BIG in Luxemburg van afstand 3 km was in plaats van liggen. twee kanten was bedwongen. de vermelde 6,2 km.*. Monte Nog één BIG te gaan in zone 3. Saint Nicolas (BIG 139) kende Nog 5 BIG’s te gaan. Ik moest het even kwijt, dus een valse start. De coördinaten De dagopening startte vanuit sms’te ik naar Roland (member van de start aan de NW-kant Moersdorf naar Eoliennes de 463 en grote inspirator): One to komen uit in Putscheid. Pafebierg (BIG 148). Vroeg in go! Uiteraard wist hij direct Vandaar naar de top is de ochtend een taaie rakker. waar het over ging en liet me eenvoudig waar het eindigt bij Mijn spieren waren stijf. Zelfs weten dat ik ook vooral moest een waterreservoir. Het venijn de tussenribspieren deden zeer genieten. zat in de afdeling. Terug in na de inspanning op de De laatste BIG van deze jacht Putscheid kon ik doordalen Herrenberg. Boven gekomen was niet voor niets Mont Saint naar Stolzembourg, de voelde ik mij als Don Jean (BIG 150), de laatste op eigenlijke startplaats. Volgens Quichotte, vechtend tegen de lijst van zone 3, dus een de locals 17% gedurende 1,9 windmolens. goede reden om met deze te km. De weg is recht dus als een eindigen. Het plan was om speer naar beneden. Daarna Mont Saint Jean ter afsluiting weer omhoog gaf ik de locals van de jacht nog van beide gelijk.* zijden te bedwingen, maar dat De topper van de dag was de lukte niet. Vanuit Esch-sur- Herrenberg (BIG 144) in Alzette bleek de lengte van de Diekirch. Kort, maar heftig westelijke route veel meer dan vanuit de zuidoost kant. Vanaf de aangegeven twee kilometer het begin door een smal straatje te zijn en de coördinaten van de recht omhoog. Leuk als er dan top kwamen op mijn gps ook nog een auto probeert in te midden in het weiland uit.* keren. Dat werd surplace op Nadat ik helemaal om de berg een helling van 21%. Het was heen was gefietst vond ik een echte klassieker. In het eindelijk de ingang naar de top. begin dacht ik dat het wel Al mijn opgespaarde tijd was ik meeviel, halverwege werd het Daarna was de beurt aan de kwijt en de zon ging bijna minder eenvoudig en toen de Altrier (BIG 146) vanuit het onder. In de nabijheid van het top naderde was mijn hartslag oosten. Deze route had ik kleine kerkje op Mont Saint maximaal en de snelheid gekozen vanwege de lengte. Jean overdacht ik de afgelopen minimaal (bijna weer een Toen ik bij de startplaats kwam dagen. Het was een echte jacht. ongewilde surplace). Afstappen was ik bijna terug bij het hotel Vooral door de korte dagen van was geen optie, want opstappen in Bollendorf! Stom om een november was de tijdsdruk zou niet meer lukken. De route uit te zetten op basis van groot. Het was soms afzien afdaling deed ik via de de coördinaten van de toppen. door de koude, regen en noordwest kant vanwege de Startplaats 146-E ligt dus vlak gladheid, maar daardoor werd veiligheid. bij start 145-E en was mooi in het juist volop genieten! De De laatste klim van de dag een rit te doen geweest. De missie was volbracht: in vier werd Berdorf Gorges du Loup klim zelf zou ik iedereen dagen 31 beklimmingen op 25 (BIG 145). Vanaf de westkant afraden. Het was echt niet BIG’s! Het werd tijd om naar was de weg voor alle verkeer veilig als de auto’s je met 110 huis te gaan. afgesloten. Ook voor fietsers, km/uur inhaalden. Gelukkig want halverwege de route werd reden er op zondagochtend * Opmerkingen ten aanzien van de brug vervangen. Vanaf de geen vrachtauto’s. de routes zijn doorgegeven aan oostkant was het een mooie Côte d’Houwald (BIG 147) het BIG-committée. tempoklim. Onderweg waren was een leuke klim. De spieren waren opgewarmd. De

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Luxembourg

Kevin SPEED

Friday 16th March 2012 Holmes Chapel 07.46, Crewe 08.01. Crewe 08.29 Euston 10.04. St Pancras 12.57 Brussels 16.08. A meal in first class and a seat on my own and bike tucked away in its bag and safely in sight, couldn’t ask for more. Arrived in Brussels on time and lugged the bike down to the platforms and along to track 12 for the 16.33 for Luxembourg to arrive at 19.40. I got on the wrong train and waited in Namur 17.42 to 18.42 for the Luxembourg train. Finally arrived at 20.40 then main road leading to the north short stop here then a gradual couldn’t find the hostel. It was of Diekirch at a police station climb up to the main road then quite easy really but I then right, back into the town a left turn and along to Altrier wandered all round the city but then took the road for BIG 146, a mast on the right of finally found it at 22.50 just Echternach. I took a right for the road marks the top but before the hostel closed. Bike Berdorf 9km before reaching there’s nothing of interest here to the lock up down below and Echternach and climbed the on the busy main road. From I made up the bed and went next BIG; BIG 145 Berdorf- here downhill all the way then straight to sleep. 45.80€ for two Gorges du Loup, 36km, took a right at Gonderange for nights bed and breakfast passing the rocks halfway up lanes through Hostert, Saturday 17th March that resemble a mini Saxon Niederanvan, Oetrange, Day 1 Train, Thomas Cook Switzerland with steps up and Hesperange, Bettambourg and timetable T439 Luxembourg crevasses through the gaps Dudelange 35km, and lost far 09.15 to Clervaux 10.08, 99km between the rocks. I had a short too much time negotiating the Cycled out from Clervaux stop here then on to the top of lanes and arrived at Kayl for heading east towards Marnach the BIG at Berdorf and took BIG 150 Mont Saint Jean when and took a road to the right at photos at the road junction in it was already dark so no Reuler for Cote de Munshausen the village that marks the top. photos. I wanted to get back BIG 138, passing through From there steeply down to quickly now, so directly back woods on the climb then an Echternach, passing more through Bettembourg to open clearing to the village. A gorges on the way down. It Luxembourg, 32km. Total right turn then a short distance started raining but went off 130km or 81 miles 10.30 to to the top at the end of the when I reached Echternach. 20.30 village on the Marnach road. Straight on at the crossroads on The usual photos then open the Wasserbillig road then took Sunday 18th March country to Marnach then main a right for Osweiller but Day 2, An early start and first road south through Hosingen straight on at the crossroads one down for breakfast at 06.30 where I finally got my front after a long climb. To the right and out at 07.30 and this time I brake sorted out at a garage. I is Osweiller and left for had the route to the station needed an allan key to tighten Dickweiller. Straight on then sussed - under the bridge to the it from rubbing on the wheel. shortly a fork to the right led to right and along Rue Sosthene On then to Diekirch 27km and the wind turbines marking the Weis and Rue St Ulric in the took a right then a left up the top of BIG 148 Epliennes de valley then steeply up Montee very steep Rue Montee Pafebierg, a few photos in the de la Petrusse to Avenue de la Herrenberg to join the main barren landscape and could see Gare. This time it took me only road near the top then right for how effective those wind half an hour. I boarded the I.C. Herrenberg BIG 144, there’s a machines are at this point. 133 train from Luxembourg at military base at the top, took Along and down to Herborn 08.20, arrived in Koblenz at the usual photos then down the then a right turn for Bech, a 10.35, T915, then from

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Koblenz T914 at 10.54 on the busy streets. I was still on the of the town signposted for same platform for the regional road down from the Hohe Marienthal. It’s a fairly steep train via St Goarhausen and Wurzel. The hotel is the rise on the main road leading Wiesbaden to Frankfurt Hochst Hostellerie Landhaus Diedert out of Rockenhausen. at 12.54 – well it was ½ an and set me back 117€ - 70€ for Marienthal is a pretty village hour late so made up for that by the room – a very nice en suite and the traffic seemed to jumping on the local service – should be for the price – a disperse but was busy again on SE12 to Konigstein, arriving ½ very filling evening meal of the monotonous section leading an hour later at 14.00. from Barlauchschaumsuppe up to the right turn to there I started my afternoon followed by a filet vom Donnersberg BIG 165, 3km cycling and rode the steep main Havellander Apfelschwein and along this road to the top at road north then off to the right drinks and breakfast in the 14.40 and a cul-de-sac and a for Grosser Feldberg BIG 182 morning. I slept very well that one way system at the top. 25km, 2hours 14.00 – 16.00. It night after previous nights' There was even a police car up took me 1 ½ hours to reach the broken sleep at Luxembourg there to enforce it – or was he top. Another right turn in the hostel and two very active days having an afternoon nap? woods led up the final 3km to under my belt. Total 70km or There’s a pub at the top but just the towers at the top, shrouded 43 miles 14.00 – 20.00 my luck – Monday is ruhetag in mist but the day was so couldn’t get a celebration overcast. There was no view at Monday 19th March drink. The top is marked by a the top and the towers stood Day 3, After a filling breakfast, radio/tv mast among the trees like ominous sentinels. From out from the hotel at 09.30 and and I had a short walk through here quickly down and back to into Weissbaden and to the the woods for the view. After Konigstein. I had a quick look hauptbahnhof and took a taking the usual photos and one around the small town streets – regional train to Rudesheim on with the self-timer I put on definitely a tourist area- then the Rhine at 10.33 then the jacket and helmet and did an 28km to Weissbaden at 18.00 11.33 ferry across the Rhine to about turn back down to and enough time before dark to Bingen. I realised I had to Rockenhausen, 20km and went cycle the Hohe Wurzel BIG make up time if I was to reach to the station at 15.20 for a 181. I originally planned this a point further west by the end train but had a ¾ hour wait so for the following day but good of the day so I took another decided to cycle on heading to cram the climb in now and regional train at 11.55 from north along the valley to Bad hopefully realise a better day Bingen to Rockenhausen, Munster, 25km at 16.30. There tomorrow. I was a bit confused arrived at 12.54 and asked the was a train from here to in Wiesbaden so asked a few way for Donnersberg. I ended Turkesmuhle at 17.03 arriving people for directions in my best up cycling an estate on a at there at 18.40. I went for this German of course. I last asked hillside to the east of the station then cycled from Turkesmuhle a petrol station and knew I was but soon found out this was to Tholey, 15km. It was dark on the right road when I was wrong. I wasted time here but half way there but it was a told ‘geradeaus’ The climb eventually found the road north good cyclepath the whole way. took me an hour, arriving at 19.30. I don’t think it’s particularly steep except for one sharp section 3km from the city. I could see the lay of the land ahead and could see that when I reached the trees I would be near the top. The only indication that I arrived at the top was the brown road summit markers either side of the road in an open clearing. It was just getting dark when I reached the top so a quick few photos and on with my jacket and helmet and speedily down to find somewhere to stay the night before it got totally dark. I found a hotel to the north west of the city before reaching the

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I arrived in Tholey at 19.30 but not only a parking place but Cochem as planned. I also took had some difficulty finding also another P place – it smells far too long admiring the somewhere to stay. All hotels – especially behind the turm scenery along the way. I cycled and b&b’s on the main road that really is a stump. I went a the west side of the Moselle as were closed. I stopped for a bit further just to make sure it far as Traben then the east side kebab at the only eating place was the top – it was. I didn’t to Zell and back across to the and asked there. I was in luck stay here long, only enough to west side finishing at St and was directed to a hotel on take photos then back to the Aldegund for the day at 19.30. the Schaumberg road ½km road junction near here for a I made too many stops for above the village. I arrived at right hand turn for an easy road sausages and photos. I found a Das Hotel Schauenburg 20.45 steeply down to the Moselle at place to stay for 30€ at a pub and had a Bolognese with Kues Bernkastel and admired and had two pastas at a really nudels and went to sleep at the pretty houses there, many good restaurant run by a 22.15. Total 60km. or 40 miles photos. The road down to this Pakastani. Wonder what 09.30 – 19.30 point was closed because of Pakastani food is? What ever it men working on the road just is he can’t sell it but his pasta Tuesday 20th March above the town so it was was good. To bed at 23.00, full Day 4, 08.00, Tholey to fantastic to have the whole road up and tired. 133km or 83 Schaumberg BIG 163 3km to myself and enjoy the sweep miles 08.30 – 19.30 without any bags as I left them down the hairpins safely. It was at the hotel to be picked up a further 70km to St Aldegund Wednesday 21st March later. I asked a German following the curves of the Day 5, Final day so ready for construction worker up there to river and it was impossible to the big push. I must reach macht mein foto to which he reach BIG 159 Steigung Von Cologne tonight no matter readily obliged. I had a good Bremm today, let alone reach what. My accommodation is look round at the top and could see this area is a tourist attraction with signboards and coloured walkways around the mountain side. At 09.00 I collected my bags and cycled back to Turkesmuhle, in daylight for a change then struck north for the first time and hoped to complete four BIG’s today as the first one was done early in the day. It was a sunny day for a change but there was climbing involved just after Birkenfeld where the road continues up through woods then the left turn then left again for the final 3km to Erbeskopf BIG 161, I left my bags hidden in some bracken for the final 3km to the top and took the usual photos in front of the military base and walked along boards on to an overhanging viewpoint. A radio/tv mast again marks the top. 42km via Birkenfeld, 11.30, Downhill to Morbach and joined with a very busy main road from Trier to Mainz and also Frankfurt Hahn airport is nearby. The road passes Stumfer Turm BIG 160 18km from Erbeskopf, 13.00. I wasn’t impressed with this as

37 BIG Review 2013 already booked and I’m booked Hunnerbach, then left again to when it erupted the shock was on the Thalys from Koln to Welcherath then right through felt as far away as Paris. Brussels and Eurostar from a wooded area popular with Around the hillside among the Brussels to London tomorrow walkers to Meuspath. When I trees are evidence of dried lava, so today has to be serious reached that point I got my now huge boulders. I continued riding and complete the final answer to what the on to Kempenich, another long three BIG’s. I set off at 08.30 Nurburgring really was – it’s a uphill on the way. Once there I after a bland breakfast but at racetrack circuit of approx took a left (well a right then least it was filling. It was the 20km – and the noise was right and under the road) and usual bread, meat, cheese and deafening. I took a right along headed north again and uphill jam and plenty of coffee to a straight section of main road as far as Hannebach then a wake me up. I went for the bike parallel to it and after a few glorious downhill to Ahrweiler, in the garage but die frau kilometres took a left fork on to a photo of the walled gateway insisted on 3.00€ for the garage the Ahrweiler road and on there then headed east a long space even for a bike. It was through the woods heading for way on a busy road heading dry this morning but cool but my next climb, the Hohe Acht directly for the Rhine at Sinzig. that soon changed after 2km as BIG 157, 52km from St 12km to Kempenich, 20km to I left the Moselle and began the Aldegund. This is a very Bad Neuenahr. Across Rhine at climb up Steigung Von interesting area. I took a left at Kripp near Remagen, 15km, Bremm, BIG 159. The climb is a pub off the main road where 17.00. I asked if there was a mainly up through woods and the large yellow sign had its bridge along here rather than a there is a series of hairpins brown indication for the BIG. I ferry. A German told me that similar to the descent testerday continued for approx 4km to there was once until you British down to the Moselle. At a the brown sign in the woods bombed it in 1945. I shouldn’t clearing there is no fanfare at indicating Hohe Acht. From have asked that question! How the top such as a café or pub, there I rode through the trees, inconsiderate, the British pilots just a wooden post with a up a little, a turn to the left then could have waited until I got footpath direction indicator and to the right then very steeply up across. Now along right bank a plate pointing to an old ruin along a narrow tarmac path to of Rhine and to Schloss of a Roman Temple nearby. the viewing area underneath Drachenburg and plenty of Over the top its just open the stone tower. I took a few photos of the climb and the country as I passed through a photos and was joined by a Schloss. I wasted too much series of villages; Kliding, very enthusiastic German time. I could see the large Urschmitt, Driesch, Alflen on a walker who was telling me the building marking the top at main road after just passing history of the area and that he Petersberg BIG 177, just another military base with would like to have a plaque put across at the other hill but at aircraft this time. I was on a here when he dies in memory. 19.00 it was already getting busy main road by-passing He told me – all in German – I dark. Back down again, and Ulmen then on reaching kept saying ‘langsam bitte!’ – slightly to the north in Kelberg I took a right then a of the fact that in pre-history Konigswinter then up the few left at the next village, Hohe Acht was a volcano that kilometres on the road in the dark. I was disappointed. I should never have gone to the Schloss first. It was just that it took my fancy when I saw the rack and pinion railway at the foot of the climb. Back down in Konigswinter I cycled the Rhine Radweg some distance but gave up and took a train soon after and journeyed on into Koln and on to my accommodation at Station Hostel Backpackers in Marzellenstrasse. 2 hours, 24km, down to Bonn, 16km, 20.30. 125km or 78 miles. 08.30 – 20.30

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B&B in the Black (?) Forest. Staufen im Breisgau. The first When we cycled for instance Helmuth DEKKERS 11km were not steep at all. Just the Hohe Acht, the temperature 2.8% on average. The weather was well below zero at start. Now the title is a bit was really good and though it Back to Belchen. So again my misleading as B&B does not was already near the end of wife picked the right time so stand for Bed & Breakfasr but October, I could cycle in shorts we could enjoy autumn when for 2 beautiful BIGs in the and short sleeves. After 11km the leaves of the trees had the Black Forest that I want to tell the turn off to Belchen is most beautiful colors. I you something about: Belchen reached. especially like the beech trees &Blauen. as they stick out due to the We visited the Black Forest by You can also continue here to beautiful mix of green, yellow the way in autumn to be able to another BIG called and brown leaves where the enjoy the multi-colored leaves Schauinsland but note that this brown leaves more look like of the trees. For Belchen, the is not an official side. Though orange when the sunlight BIG website shows 3 possible perhaps it should be as the start shines on or through them. In routes for a BIG member to to the summit of Schauinsland this time of year the name cycle to the top. And as usual I is quite steep (10.9% for Black Forest seems totally took the toughest side. This 3.3km). wrong, hence the question implied I had to start from Anyway, I was not yet after mark in the title, as it's not Schauinsland, I was Black at all in autumn. I really after Belchen! After enjoyed this climb as the road the turnoff, the climb kept offering different views on really started. The the valley and each view was views on the valley gorgeous. while I made my way up were awesome. Foto 2, the view The leaves of the trees had turned red, yellow and brown and the sun shone through the trees and set them in a golden light. I always leave it up to my wife, Patricia, to pick the right time to At some stage the road swung leave for our autumn to the left and I noticed a bare week or weekend. rock face which a bit later Because if you leave turned out to be the too early then the Scharfenstein as I read on a leaves do not yet have sign. A nice contrast with the the beautiful colors autumn colors. From Neuhof and if you leave too there is a shortcut that can be late then there are no taken. But you should have leaves at all anymore. really good legs if you would Here's the secret tip like to give it a try. It's only for from her: Go to the people who live next to that Black Forest or Eifel road but I did notice cars regions in Germany coming down this steep or to the Semois in looking road. I later calculated, the South of Belgium based on my GPS readings, to name a few in the that the main road would take last week of October 2.3km whereas the shortcut or the week before to was just 695m and the height be able to enjoy to the difference was 122m. Or 5.3% fullest the autumn for the main road and 17.5% colors. Note though for the shortcut. And that for that it can be quite ~700m! I did not take on that cold in the mornings. challenge as I had more on the

39 BIG Review 2013 program that day as you know The view was a bit hazy but the valley. We noticed during (Schauinsland). But I don’t nice though it's the views on breakfast already some clouds want to withhold this the first part after the climb had hanging in a valley further information from you as some really started that have been away and as I had read about BIG members do want to take etched into my memory. temperature inversion I thought on this challenge. So I took the main road and after 22km of cycling the road went down. And it did so for 2.2km with 5% on average before a right hand turn towards the cable lift station turned the descent into an ascent again. The part up to the cable lift station is just 600m and it was really busy here as it was Sunday and very nice weather. So many people had taken the car to the cable car station to get to the summit of Belchen. And they need to park their car somewhere too and the small parking place at the cable car station is too small on such days. I took the small graveled part next to the cable lift station. This graveled that this could be the reason. section is really short Foto 4, view from the top of Usually the air near the surface fortunately and then the last Belchen of the Earth is warmer than the 3.7km are encountered which air above it as the solar are 7% on average. There's a Well, are you getting curious radiation warms the Earth's hairpin and then a broad turn for the second B now we have surface, which in turn then around the mountain top. It's finished Belchen? Then lets warms the layer of the there that some people on move on to Blauen. The reason atmosphere directly above it. skateboards came soaring down I want to tell you about Blauen But under certain conditions, the road swinging from the left is because it offered us a the normal vertical temperature to the right. I fortunately did special phenomenon that can gradient is inverted such that not have a close encounter with be encountered when cycling in the air is colder near the one of them :-). After the road the Black Forest. We were surface of the Earth. With has curved around the staying in a hotel in sufficient humidity in the mountain top the guesthouse at Todtnauberg (not a B&B even) cooler layer, fog is typically the top itself can be seen. that offered a nice view from present below the inversion Foto 3, Belchenhaus the dining/breakfast room on cap. In the Black Forest the

40 BIG Review 2013 temperature inversion is caused Foto 6, me and the fog Foto 8, the sunbeams by high pressure systems. And we were lucky to experience this while we were there but it did help that we were there in the autumn as there's a fair chance that the air is quite humid then. These temperature inversion phenomena results in sunshine on the tops of the mountains and mild temperatures, whereas the valleys have fog and cooler temperatures. So we took the car to get to Niederweilen where the foot of Blauen is located. On our way to After 1km at 7.8% I Niederweiler it was foggy and encountered a hairpin turn and it even started drizzling near there I came above the inversion cap. Or in other Niederweilen. So when we stopped in Niederweiler so I words, above the cloud layer. could start cycling, I took my Even after the turn off to The view was superb and I rain jacket, rain covers for my Hochblauen it was foggy but I could see mountaintops in the shoes and then started cycling. could see that the sky was no distance. It was even warm Yes, in Niederweiler it was wet longer grey but white. It was there as the sun was shining and foggy but not cold. The getting lighter :-) abundantly so I took of my first 3.5km the gradient is raincoat and arm pieces even. around 4%. Then I left the Foto 7, it got lighter Foto 9, me above the clouds L132 and the road went briefly down before the more quiet L140 took me up again. There the ascent really starts as the next 5km until the turn towards Blauen could be taken are 9.6% on average! This stretch took me through the forest. Tough cycling but a nice part until the Just 500m left at 6.4% and then turn off to the summit. In the I reached the summit. I cycled mean time it had stopped onwards to the tower where I drizzling but it was still quite could see some nearby foggy. mountain tops that stuck out of the fuzzy clouds. A very nice Foto 5, the fog view indeed! After 1.5km at 8.1% the road Foto 10, the mountaintops swung in a 90 degrees turn to above the clouds the left and I saw beams of sunlight peeking through the fog and trees. It was beautiful! I had to take a couple of pictures and continued the ascent.

As you can read, it's worthwhile to go to the colorful Black Forest in Autumn. But take some rain protection and warm cycling clothes along also! It can also be wet and cold.

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Quatre BIGs en Ardêche pourcentages réguliers de 6 à Olivier NIHOUL 7%. Un vent violent de face contrarie les deux derniers Alors que le voyage vers kilomètres et je suis content l’Ardèche s’était déroulé sous d’atteindre le sommet même si une chaleur accablante, les le vent est glacial. La fin de la deux premiers jours sur place montée permet cependant voient les vannes célestes d’admirer de fabuleux déverser tout ce qu’elles panoramas avant de déboucher peuvent et la température est sur le Mont-Gerbier-de-Jonc. J’arrive au village de Monestier quasiment comparable à celle où je croise enfin une voiture que nous pensions laisser en sur ces routes désertes et Belgique. Heureusement, le tranquilles. A la sortie de ce mardi, le soleil revient et les village, mon GPS me fait nuages se font plus rares. quitter le parcours de l’Ardéchoise pour emprunter En ce début de matinée du une petite route confidentielle mardi 3 juillet, je peux enfin en direction du col, bien enfourcher mon vélo. Je me indiqué par un panneau gare tout d’abord à Saint- directionnel. Cette route Martin-de-Valamas. Le temps Je continue un peu vers l’Ouest s’enfonce très vite dans la est encore assez frais et le vent afin de ne rater aucun point de forêt. Le calme y est absolu. présent avive cette sensation vue, avant de faire demi-tour et Au bout de quelques désagréable. J’ai choisi de redescendre chercher ma kilomètres, où je n’ai croisé commencer directement par le voiture. Après le froid du personne, je me demande Mont-Gerbier-de-Jonc sommet, la vallée est baignée quand même où je vais aboutir. (1417m), première côte BIG par une température enfin plus Certes, je suis sur la route des vacances, -mais aussi agréable mais pas vraiment renseignée sur le site BIG, et la première côte BIG de l’année estivale. route est bien renseignée sur la en ce qui me concerne-, dont carte Michelin, mais le les pentes sont relativement Jeudi 5 juillet. La veille, de revêtement est très usé et douces. L’ascension commence violents orages de grêle se sont l’herbe commence à y pousser par quelques kilomètres aux abattus dès midi et il a plu une en de nombreux endroits, ce pentes variant de 1 à 3%, ce qui bonne partie de la nuit. Je pars qui me fait dire que très peu de facilite l’échauffement. Peu de Villevocance afin véhicules y passent ! Le avant le hameau de La d’escalader mon deuxième silence n’est troublé que par Chazotte, je quitte la route BIG, le col de la Charousse quelques cris d’animaux, principale pour poursuivre (1238m). C’est jour de marché parfois lointains. J’arrive alors l’ascension telle qu’elle est dans ce petit village mais je dans la partie la plus pentue, décrite sur le site du BIG. Cette trouve quand même facilement qui se trouve à hauteur du variante est assez sauvage et se une place de parking. Les hameau de Bégue, lui-aussi déroule en pleine forêt, routes sont encore un peu bien repéré sur la carte. Trois jusqu’au moment de déboucher humides lorsque je m’élance maisons se trouvent ici, au bout sur le sommet du village de mais le ciel est dégagé et le de nulle part, et elles sont bien Saint-Martial, avec une superbe soleil brille. Après 4 kilomètres habitées même si je ne vois ou vue sur le lac. en légère montée, je vire à n’entends personne. Quelle doit droite et quitte la route être la vie de ces habitants en principale pour affronter les hiver ? Je poursuis l’ascension premières pentes, très lorsque, ô surprise, le vieux sinueuses comme souvent en macadam se transforme Ardèche. brusquement en un chemin de terre ! Horreur ! Je m’arrête et après quelques secondes, je remarque un petit panneau en bois directionnel indiquant que ce chemin en terre ne fait que J’attaque alors la dernière 500 mètres avant de rejoindre partie de l’ascension aux la route principale menant au

42 BIG Review 2013 col. Me voilà donc un peu tour du monde à la voile. Cela Je dois même me frayer un rassuré et je m’élance doit être totalement fou, cette passage à travers un troupeau prudemment sur ce sentier afin impression de solitude sans de moutons se trouvant au d’éviter les pierres sortant du fin… Je continue alors jusqu’à milieu de cette route. Le sol et les nombreuses branches Saint-Bonnet-le-Froid où revêtement ne rend rien mais je de sapin tombées suite aux j’entame la rapide et belle rejoins assez vite la orages de la veille. Je rejoins descente jusqu’à Villevocance, départementale qui me permet sans crevaison la belle route mon point de départ. d’atteindre le col de large tant attendue. Plus que 3 Montreynaud (760m). De là, je kilomètres moins pentus et me vire à droite voici au col, en plein milieu de la forêt. Je m’y arrête cinq bonnes minutes afin de mettre mon coupe-vent et manger une frangipane. Bizarrement, je n’ai toujours pas croisé quelqu’un depuis le village de Monestier.

Je m’élance dans la courte descente, courte car je suis sur Un beau dessert, en sorte, pour rejoindre les villages de une sorte de plateau constitué surtout que comme partout Cluac, puis Saint-Julien- de quelques montagnes russes dans la région, la circulation est Labrousse et le col des mais rien à voir avec des très faible et que les vélos sont Nonières (671m) au terme de ascensions de cols. Je poursuis vraiment respectés comme je quelques petites bosses. ainsi, en jouant du dérailleur ne l’ai jamais vu ailleurs ! En Ensuite, il ne me reste que 7 jusqu’au village de Les Setoux, tout cas, c’est vraiment une kilomètres de descente où je vire à gauche, mais où je sortie que je n’oublierai pas de jusqu’au gîte, situé quant à lui ne vois toujours personne ! si tôt. au sommet d’une bosse de 150 C’est vraiment étrange cette mètres à 12%. sensation. Que se passe-t-il ? Dimanche 8 juillet. Après un Suis-je devenu l’acteur vendredi mi-figue mi-raisin et Lundi 9 juillet. Il est temps de involontaire d’un film de un samedi enfin caniculaire penser au 3ème BIG, le col de science-fiction ? Y a-t-il encore passé dans la vallée du Rhône, la Croix des Boutières, plus de la vie sur terre ou la il pleut à nouveau ce matin. haut col routier d’Ardèche. Je civilisation a-t-elle entièrement Vers 8h30, la pluie s’arrête et pars à nouveau de Saint- disparu durant mon ascension? un timide soleil pointe ses pâles Martin-de-Valamas pour Plus loin, après avoir encore rayons. Un peu après, j’en débuter la randonnée par le traversé un petit village lui profite pour faire une petite magnifique col de aussi totalement désert, sortie au départ du gîte. Cela l’Ardéchoise. Cette route est j’entame une côte d’environ 3 commence par 300 mètres de très étroite, sinueuse et kilomètres. descente suivis d’une ascension confidentielle à souhait, et la de 3 kms à 8% pour atteindre pente y est parfois assez sévère Saint-Basile. Dur, dur mais c’est un vrai régal l’échauffement ! Après ce petit cyclotouristique. Chaque virage village, je poursuis via une offre une vue différente entre petite route en assez mauvais les forêts, les hameaux et les état, très gravillonneuse, avec quelques prairies disséminées. beaucoup de ‘rustines’, et

malgré la pente assez faible de Seul le bruit du petit ruisseau 3 à 4%, il n’est pas facile serpentant entre les sapins vient d’avancer. troubler le silence méditatif. Au sommet, j’arrive au hameau de la Berche où enfin, je croise une voiture et vois quelques personnes. Je serai resté 1h40 sans croiser un véhicule ni voir personne, ce qui doit être un A quelques hectomètres du record. Je pense alors à ces sommet, la vue se dégage et s’étend soudain jusqu’aux aventuriers qui traversent les pôles en solitaire, ou qui font le Alpes et le spectacle est

43 BIG Review 2013 tellement hallucinant et celui-ci atteint, je fais alors grandiose que j’en oublie les demi-tour pour rejoindre mon fatigues de l’ascension. point de départ via une route Quelques fermes et chalets légèrement différente de l’aller bordent cette route et cela doit être un vrai bonheur que de se lever le matin avec une vue aussi exceptionnelle. Une fois le col passé, Le paysage est magnifique et le calme est absolu. Après cette première partie qui se termine au hameau de Roumezoux, j’ai et qui me surprendra par une droit à 4 kms de plat avant violente remontée de quelques d’arriver au pied de la montée hectomètres à 10% au milieu finale. Cela ne doit pas être une légère descente de 2 bons de la descente, et juste après un trop difficile vu qu’il ne me kilomètres m’amène au pied de virage serré. reste que 4 kms à 7% de l’ascension finale. La route est moyenne pour atteindre le tout d’abord très large et assez Mercredi 11 juillet. Je peux sommet. Je vire à droite pour droite, ce qui mine toujours le encore faire un BIG pas trop entamer l’ascension et moral même si je monte bien. éloigné, le col de Serre-Mûre, directement, un terrible mur Après 4 kms, je vire à gauche ou col de la Mûre (765m). avec un lacet à droite, très serré pour emprunter la dernière Après les nouveaux orages de me, contraint à descendre partie de la montée qui me la veille, le ciel est à nouveau directementsur le 30*25. Me mènera au Col de la croix des bleu et le soleil réchauffe vite voilà presque collé à la route. Boutières, à 1506 m d’altitude. le village de Saint-Fortunat- Heureusement, la pente Cette route est à nouveau plus sur-Eyrieux où je me prépare. redescend assez vite vers un étroite et la pente y est sévère, 6% un peu constant. C’est atteignant les 10% sur la fin. après le premier kilomètre que Les panoramas y sont je me rends compte que ce col cependant tout aussi sublimes ne se laissera pas avoir aussi facilement. La montée devient totalement irrégulière, se transformant en un escalier dont les pentes varient entre 4 et 15% ! Je déteste ce genre de

côte où il est impossible de La chaleur s’installe doucement garder un rythme et où il faut et le village semble vivre au sans cesse relancer et changer de braquet. Mais pas question ralenti. Je remonte d’abord un peu la vallée pour virer assez de renoncer bien sûr, et et j’aperçois le sommet au loin. vite à droite et prendre le finalement la pente s’adoucit, Celui-ci est atteint après chemin du col convoité. laissant présager d’un sommet quelques derniers efforts. L’ascension commence par 8 proche. Je m’y arrête et kilomètres réguliers à 4%, de contemple un magnifique quoi bien s’échauffer, même si panorama tout en me le revêtement ne rend pas grand désaltérant. chose. Durant cette partie, je peux admirer à souhait les ruines du château de la Tourette, en haut de la Je décide de continuer un peu vallée opposée. dans le département de la Haute-Loire, qui débute au sommet, afin d’atteindre un peu plus loin le col de la Croix de Peccata, qui culmine à 1564 mètres, et qui sera le sommet de mes vacances. Une fois

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Après m’être un peu reposé, je de 1000 mètres d’altitude. Là, redescends ces 4 kilomètres et je vire vers le Col des Nonières je me rends bien compte de la mais auparavant, je dois encore difficulté rencontrée à l’aller et monter jusqu’au col de Pouzat de la variation incessante de la (1125m), pente. Je continue vers Vernoux-en-Vivarais via une montée bien plus sympathique. De là, je me dirige vers le col je prends une petite route afin de Montreynaud via de faire l’ascension via une Chateauneuf-de-Vernoux. La départementale qui doit être chaleur s’est installée mais ce très tranquille. Trois kilomètres col par cette route n’est qu’une plus loin, je vire à gauche afin formalité. Je fais demi-tour et de débuter la montée. Horreur ! rejoins Vernoux où j’avais La route a été récemment décidé de descendre via St- gravillonnée… Tant pis… Je facile par son versant ouest si Maurice de Chalençon pour continue mais la côte d’environ ce n’est quelques ultimes rejoindre ma voiture. C’est 5% m’en paraît parfois le hectomètres à 10%. La heureusement à ce moment que double. Après 3 kilomètres, je descente qui s’en suit est je croise un cyclo qui retrouve le vieux bitume, assez extrêmement rapide m’interpelle. Lui venait de accrocheur, mais sans gravier. monter par la route que je commençais à emprunter, et il me signale plusieurs passages en travaux, sans macadam, ainsi qu’une portion de plusieurs kilomètres fraîchement gravillonnée ! Je décide donc de redescendre via ma première ascension du matin afin d’éviter cette mauvaise route. Arrivé à un peu moins d’un kilomètre de ma voiture, je sens du flottement à l’arrière après être passé dans un trou un peu auparavant. J’ai dû pincer la chambre à air qui se dégonfle lentement… Je sprinte un peu afin de ne pas devoir réparer sur la route, mais plutôt tranquillement au gîte, et je L’ascension se fait souvent en parviens tout juste à finir sur le sous-bois, avec quelques belles jusqu’au col des Nonières, où pneu presque plat. Ouf ! échappées sur la vallée. De je poursuis la descente

temps à autre, une maison maintenant bien connue, Vendredi 13 juillet. Il a encore isolée borde la route étroite. jusqu’au gîte. bruiné ce matin jusque 8h00. Tellement étroite que je devrai Heureusement, le ciel se m’arrêter pour laisser passer un L’Ardêche est un paradis pour dégage vite et le soleil sèche mobilhome italien qui montait le vélo. Les montées sont tout. Vers 9h30, je m’élance prudemment et semblait s’être magnifiques et rarement donc du gîte vers Lamastre où égaré. Encore un chemin du difficiles. La circulation y est je prends la nationale vers bout du monde… Peu à peu, je faible et l’on peut emprunter Saint-Agrève. Bien que ce soit me rapproche de la nationale, toutes les routes en toute une grand-route, on peut y située de l’autre coté de la quiétude. N’hésitez pas à y rouler en toute quiétude vallée, et que j’avais quittée à aller. Moi, en tout cas, je suis tellement la circulation est Desaignes. Encore deux lacets prêt à y retourner ! faible. Arrivé à Desaignes, et je la rejoins, juste à l’entrée paisible village médiéval, de Saint-Agrève, à un peu plus

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Ax-les-Thermes Pailhéres. Ik niet, want ik Hans KOEDIJKER vind het leuk om BIG 195 ‘rondjes’ te fietsen. Daarom kies ik net na een Het Zuid-Franse Ax-les- camping voor de D25b, Thermes is een uitstekende de weg naar de Col du uitvalsbasis voor wie van Pradel, waarna er nog fietsen in de bergen houdt. Zo minder bewoning is en de kun je vanuit dit stadje in een weg allengs slechter en rondje van nog geen 60 smaller wordt. Er volgen kilometer zomaar 4 cols rijden. dan wat lastige Zelfs voor een matig getrainde klimkilometers waar ik fietser uit Noord-Holland is dat serieus moet werken om het er niet zo veel te beleven aan nog goed te doen. kleinste verzet rond te krijgen. deze col. Iets verder ligt Na de ontmoeting met de Camurac, waar in de winter Net onder de Col du Pradel koeien mag de beloning op de wat skiliften geopend zijn. Ik (BIG357)moet ik van de fiets col er zijn. Het uitzicht op de passeer de afslag naar omdat een groep koeien de weg laaghangende mist en met Montaillou, een voormalig blokkeert. Misschien wel rondom de hoge ketters bolwerk van Katharen terecht ook. Dit is hun domein Pyreneentoppen is fantastisch. die begin 14e eeuw door en ik ben maar een toevallige inquisitoren uit Pamiers en passant. Eén van de weinige, Er volgt een moeilijke afdaling Carcassonne gruwelijk zijn dat wel. Het biedt me meteen richting Niort-de-Sault. In het vervolgd. Montaillou is bekend de mogelijkheid om even bij te bos is het vrij donker, de weg is geworden door het historisch komen van de laatste nat en bezaaid met steenslag. naslagwerk van Emmanuel Le klimkilometers. De weg is hier Eenmaal uit het bos passeer ik Roy Ladurie; ‘Montaillou, een smal en al wandelend passeer La Fajolle, een verstild ketters dorp in de Pyreneeën’. ik de zachtaardige beesten met bergdorp waar de lokale Genoeg tijd om deze hun koeienbellen. De laatste bevolking zich gereed maakt geschiedenis te overdenken, meters naar de col op 1680 voor het jaarlijkse dorpsfeest. want het fietst hier heerlijk. meter gaan weer op de fiets. Hoe kun je hier leven vraag ik Lichtjes omhoog, maar nooit Col du Pradel vormt de grens me af, terwijl ik de bidons moeilijk. Voorbij Prades ligt de tussen de twee departementen bijvul bij de dorpspomp. De Col de Marmare op een hoogte Aude en Ariége. weg wordt nu breder en volgt van 1361 meter. Dit is eigenlijk de wildstromende Rébenty, een een tussencol onderweg naar de Een klein uurtje eerder ben ik zijrivier van de l’Aude, richting Col de Chioula, want die volgt vertrokken uit Ax-les-Thermes. Mérial, nog een vlek in deze iets verder op een hoogte van De route richting Col du Pradel prachtige omgeving. Vlak voor 1431 meter. Het is hier wat en naar de Port de Pailhéres Niort-de-Sault gaat het jasje drukker met auto’s en (BIG358)vertrekken beide uit weer uit, omdat ik afsla wandelaars en er is een dit kuuroord en gaan de eerste richting Camurac. Afwisselend restaurant. Het ‘zware’ werk zit 7 kilometer regelmatig langs bergweiden en door het er op. Voor me ligt een brede omhoog. Er zijn meer fietsers bos, gaat het omhoog naar de afdaling van 10 kilometer terug onderweg maar de meesten Col des Sept Fréres op 1253 naar Ax-les-Thermes. De kiezen voor de Port de meter. Buiten de mooie naam is afdaling van de Chioula heeft alles: schitterende haarspeld- Vanuit Ax-les-Thermes in de Pyreneeën kun je geweldige cols fietsen. bochten en brede, rechte, Naar het oosten liggen de genoemde Col du Pradel, Port de Pailhéres en stukken waar je absoluut met je de Vallée d’Orlu. In het noorden liggen de Col de Chioula, Montagne de vingers van de remmen af moet Tabe, en, iets verder, Montségur (BIG356), les Monts d’Olmes en Prat blijven. Gaan, volle bak! d’Albis (BIG355). Heerlijk. Onderweg opent zich Naar het westen ligt in het dal van de Ariége Les Cabannes. Van daaruit het dal van de Ariége, met klim je naar het legendarische Plateau de Beille (BIG 346), waar schitterende vergezichten over Raborenner Michael Rasmussen in 2007 een heroïsch gevecht leverde de Pyreneeën en ik kom weer met latere tourwinnaar Alberto Contador. langs de afslag naar Pradel en Tot slot ligt aan de zuidkant van Ax-les-Thermes de weg open naar Pailhéres. Andorra, Catalonië, Ax-3-Domaines en Col de Puymorens. Afstand Zomaar een prachtig rondje Utrecht-Ax-les-Thermes bedraagt 1268 kilometers. gereden met 4 echte cols.

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La montagne des animaux

Daniël GOBERT

Au camping Sunélia d'Argelès- Gazost, en plein centre des Pyrénées occidentales, le magnifique parc animalier des Pyrénées nous domine lorsqu'on nage dans la piscine. Après sa visite, intéressante et didactique, je m'imaginais avoir eu la chance de voir des marmottes du plus près de ma vie, découvrant leurs dents orangées lorsqu'elles s'assirent sur les genoux de l'une de mes filles. Pourtant, deux jours plus tard, les animaux régionaux ne finirent pas de m'étonner.

Comme chaque fois, pour éviter de trop piétiner les Soudain, premier tableau muscles des cuisses saillants, plages horaires partagées en animalier, le plus étonnant, au des chiens, de très gros calibre famille, je partis tôt en route détour d'une épingle à droite, comme on en voit dans ces vers Luz-Ardiden. Ce n'est pas une dizaine de chevreaux ou Pyrénées, seuls, sans maîtres, le jour le plus chaud de cet été bouquetins du coin... en au milieu de la route. Je ne vais mais il fait agréable. A Luz- peloton, tentaient pas si vite que cela mais je Saint-Sauveur, on redescend désespérément de me lâcher. Je freine quand même. Ils une longue ligne droite, avant me dis en moi-même que tels avancent vers moi, prêts à d'entamer deux virages serrés les troupeaux de vaches chez foncer. Personne en vue : il est nous, ils traversaient juste là, à sept heures du matin. qui m'amènent directement dans... le brouillard. cet endroit et allaient s'en aller N'écoutant que mon courage, via un sentier adjacent. Que enfin presque,... je fais demi- Partout dans les Pyrénées, les nenni ! Leur attaque dura un tour jusqu'au lacet avant le ascensions de légende sont bon kilomètre. Presi-Dan pont. Je regarde derrière munies de panneaux tentait tant bien que mal, et anxieux. Ils sont restés en haut. kilométriques dédiés aux plutôt mal que bien, de tenir Et m.... !!!! Je ne vais quand cyclos et qui annoncent le leurs roues (enfin leurs pattes) même pas louper un big à pourcentage du kilomètre quand soudain le peloton cause de deux chiens. Que faire suivant. Après deux kilomètres, s'arrêta d'un coup, à hauteur ? Abandonner là : trop bête. je me dis que cette ascension-ci d'une grange. Je regardai par Attendre une voiture et passer faisait bien moins mal que habitude leur regard pour voir en sa compagnie en ayant leur état d'épuisement. Ouf, les prévenu l'automobiliste quitte à Hautacam fait quelques jours plus tôt ou que le final du Pont chevrettes servant de lièvre ce qu'il se moque de moi. Oui, d'Espagne ou du col de ahanaient, le regard ...euh... c'est la solution. Alors, Spandelles grimpés ensuite. Et bovin. j'attends... une demie-heure. évidemment bien plus facile L'horloge tourne... Bon, bison que le célèbre et terrible A trois kilomètres du sommet futé, itinéraire bis ; certes Tourmalet que Nathalie venait d'une ascension quand même l'herbe est haute mais faut que de grimper la veille dans un assez régulière, un petit pont je coupe le lacet au travers, car cadre démesurément enjambe une rivière de mes quelques essais hésitants gigantesque et enchanteur. montagne, juste avant la jusqu'au pont m'amenaient à Cette montée était bien présence de deux maisons me retrouver à chaque fois face isolées au bord de la route. à ces molosses absolument roulante et bien agréable, malgré la visibilité vraiment Deuxième tableau animalier, le antipathiques et prêts à réduite. plus effrayant, à la sortie de ce s'attaquer à mes mollets. Je pris petit pont, face à moi, regards donc mon vélo sur les épaules hargneux, crocs acérés, et à travers les alpages

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(puisqu'il n'y a pas de rappelai le parc animalier Ardiden. Ou le devoir de pyrénages) durant dix bonnes d'Argelès et je tentai de refaire à nouveau le chemin minutes, enfui dans les herbes m'arrêter. Elles ne bougèrent inverse dans les grandes herbes hautes afin d'éviter leur pas. Je m'assis sur le talus à avec le talus en descente. Un attention, je gagnai dix mètres deux mètres de certaines kilomètre, deux kilomètres, ça d'altitude pour me retrouver au- d'entre elles. Elles me approche. Je vois les maisons : dessus des maisons isolées. Je regardèrent, prêtes à s'enfuir rien. J'approche des maisons : m'y repris certes à quatre fois mais finalement, voyant que je rien ! Soulagement, je vois un pour faire passer mon vélo au- ne bougeais pas, vinrent près homme sur sa porte dans l'une dessus du dernier talus escarpé, de moi et se mirent à jouer à des maisons. La présence mais voilà : j'étais sauvé. leurs jeux habituels sans humaine me ravigote. L'homme s'occuper de ma petite rit, fort, très fort. En me voyant Et je m'en allai, respirant à personne. Je les préférais aux arriver, il fait les quelques nouveau l'optimisme, vers le deux chiens. Après quelques mètres qui le séparent de la sommet perdu dans les minutes de bonheur, je gravis grille d'entrée de sa maison. Je nuages,avec un carrefour les deux dernières centaines de passe devant lui et là, je indicateur à l'entame du dernier mètres jusqu'à la station, remarque... qu'il tient en laisse kilomètre. A deux cent mètres entièrement vide, déserte, deux énormes molosses à qui il du sommet, il me reste deux froide. Quelques photos du lieu montre un couillon de cycliste épingles, quand je tombai nez à et je me dis qu'il était temps de étranger. nez, sur le troisième tableau redescendre. animalier, le plus attendrissant, C'est alors que je me dis qu'il On s'amuse comme on peut composé d'une vingtaine de fallait repasser par l'endroit des dans ces petits patelins marmottes au milieu de la route chiens et je m'imaginai les perdus... et sur le talus la bordant, pas du pires des scénarios comme leur tout effarouchées par la brusque apparition alors que je présence d'un petit cycliste dévalais à soixante à l'heure la belge à l'assaut d'un big. Je me descente régulière de Luz-

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Luz-Ardiden, www.fietsenbeleving.nl. Meindert BRUGMAN De groep startte in Argelez-Gazost. Omdat ik Deze berg is o.a. bekend door minder snel rij, dan de de val van ene Armstrong groep, ben ik met de auto (Ullrich wachtte op hem), de naar Luz-Saint-Sauveur man die de wielerwereld dit gereden. Na even warm jaar op zijn kop zette. Dit is een gereden te zijn ben ik de berg waar ik altijd goed ben. I BIG-berg omhoog ´´love´´ this mountain. Is gegaan, de D12 op. Na gelijkmatig qua stijging, wegen een kwartiertje werd ik zijn mooi ruim, afwisselend voorbijgestoken door de landschap. mannen uit het de overige deelnemers haalde marathonpeloton. mij in. Onderweg nog wat De eerste kennismaking was in Vervolgens schreeuwde de koeien begroet die midden op september 2010. Ik had een reisleider een bemoedigd de weg liepen, met woorden: fietsvakantie geboekt bij Fiets woord uit zijn raampje. Ik deed “Noh heu”, een Westfriesche en Beleving er een schepje bovenop. Ook groet voor goedendag. Toen ik bijna boven was doken de marathonmannen de berg al weer af.

Boven kreeg ik een lekker soepje van Pascal. Met mijn tijd van 2 uur was ik dik tevreden.

2012 stond de beklimming weer op het menu. De auto parkeerde ik weer op het zelfde plekje. Weer haalde de andere van de groep mij in. Pieter reed nog een tijdje met mij op. Er haalde ook een leuke vrouw mij in. Ik was vast van plan boven een praatje met haar te maken. Deze keer kreeg ik het soepje van Gerrit. Tijd was nu krap 2 uur. We gaan de goede kant op. By the way de leuke mevrouw stond met een man te praten, het voorgenomen praatje maar achterwege gelaten. Uiteraard weer een foto gemaakt van het bordje met de naam van de beklimming erop. Beneden nog een shirt gekocht met Luz- Ardiden erop. Dit shirt draag ik met trots met spinnen in de sportschool. Daar blijkt niemand te weten dat die beklimming er is.

Hoop over een paar jaar deze favo berg weer te mogen beklimmen.

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Récit d’une terrible défaillance des cyclosportives qui venaient pour moi la remettre un peu Michel MENARD d’être créées en cette année prés correctement ; ce qui fut BIG 78 avec cinq épreuves : l’Épervier fait et celle-ci retrouva une / le Chevreuil / la Marmotte / forme un peu plus normale. Je Sur une épreuve de 173 km et l’Isard-Bahamontès / et la pouvais repartir en espérant 5000 m de dénivelé, comptant Louison Bobet. (1) que, bien que fragilisée, elle trois BIGs : puisse tenir au moins jusqu’au No 287 : col de la Croix de Premier acte bout. Effectivement, elle Fer / No 291 : col du Galibier Tout à coup, j’entends un tiendra et encore heureusement / No 290 : l’Alpe d’Huez claquement à l’arrière. Je me puisque arriva ce qui fut le plus retourne et constate un bris de terrible, le : rayon. Zut, mais ce n’est pas Bourg d’Oisans samedi 11 bien grave, la roue n’est que Deuxième acte juillet 1987, 7 heure du matin, très peu voilée, espérant que ça Le plus gros des cyclos était le départ viens d’être donné en resta là. La montée se passé lorsque je reparti, et pour 3960 participant(e)s et je poursuit sans autres problèmes maintenant il n’y avait plus que m’élance pour ce qui sera ma lorsque arrivant sur le sommet, des petits groupes ou quelques première « Marmotte » car l’an un nouveau claquement et individualités. Pour se prochain j’y reviendrai et je toujours à l’arrière. Un présenter au pied du col du prendrai ma revanche sur deuxième rayon viens de casser Télégraphe à St Michel de aujourd’hui qui sera l’une des mais cette fois c’est sérieux, la Maurienne, il faut compter journée des plus terribles de ma roue et vraiment voilée et je environ 10 km sur un très léger carrière cyclo suite à une suis obligé de détendre l’étrier faut plat remontant et je suis défaillance spectaculaire et pour éviter qu’elle ne frotte sur pratiquement seul vent dans le d’autant plus inexpliquée que les patins. Je vais être obligé de nez. C’est alors que quelque rien ne présagé un tel descendre le col avec prudence chose ne tourne plus rond, je dénouement. Pourtant comme à et la faire réparée dans la vallée sens la machine détraquée. Non mon habitude dans ce genre à St Jean de Maurienne par les non, ce n’est plus le vélo mais d’épreuve et croyez moi ce mécanos de l’organisation moi-même ; ça ne vaut pas n’était pas la première, tout (Mavic). Ce n’est pas très bon, mieux sinon pire. J’attaque le avez été minutieusement je vais perdre du temps. Télégraphe mais cette fois ce préparé, peaufiné, tant d’un Effectivement et je vais en n’est plus une impression, point de vue physique / perdre beaucoup car je ne suis j’accuse réellement le coup. psychologique et pas seul avec des petits Certes, psychologiquement matériellement, et de plus les problèmes. Assis dans l’herbe l’incident des rayons m’a un prévisions météo étaient je profite de ce contre temps peu démoralisé, mais ce n’est excellentes. pour me ravitailler en attendant pas suffisant pour expliquer cet Jusque Rochetaillée, mon tour de dépannage, et état de fait et comme il bifurcation où l’on vire sur la voyant de nombreux cyclos commence à faire chaud, là droite pour débuter l’ascension passer, je comprends dés lors viendrait peut-être la raison du col de la Croix de Fer (on qu’il ne faudra pas compter réel de la défaillance qui va pourrait dire aussi celui du pour un bon classement final. suivre, car sachez le, je n’ai Glandon, car la route ne passe C’est agaçant. qu’à 300 mètre environ de son Alors pour sommet) ; départ rapide sur une gagner route assez large et bien droite quelque peu présentant une légère déclivité ; du temps, me après quoi tout le monde vint l’idée de commença à se calmer pour ce « bidouiller » qui arrivé, une longue montée ma roue avec de 29 km avec 1352 m de une clé à dénivelé. J’étais bien, entouré rayons sans de toute part par de nombreux pour autant cyclos qui avaient le même but, remplacer les réussir une belle « Marmotte » deux et peut être même un peu plus, manquants, en tout comme moi, marquer des la demandant points pour le Trophée d’Or à un mécano

50 BIG Review 2013 jamais aimé la grosse chaleur d’un champion ayant triomphé au sommet, je viens de franchir (remarqué, je n’ai jamais aimé au sommet. Bien sur j’aurais pu la ligne, mon temps est non plus le grand froid). Après en rester là, retrouver mon enregistré. m’être fait dépasser par de hôtel situé à quelques centaines Dans l’indifférence totale, j’ai nombreux cyclos, j’arrive de mètres et sombrer dans un posé mon vélo dans l’herbe à péniblement au sommet du col sommeil comateux, fin de mon un endroit tout à fait et plonge immédiatement sur calvaire. Il n’en fut rien. Je quelconque et me suis allongé à Valloire où j’espère me refaire voulais faire un bon classement ses côtés sans prendre une petite santé. pour le Trophée d’Or, donc il conscience (évidemment, me fallait monter jusqu’au j’étais dans le « cirage ») qu’à Impossible de m’alimenter bout, finir l’intégralité du tout moment, n’importe quel correctement ; seul quelques parcourt. C’est certain, en individu aurait pu me le voler. cartiers d’oranges seront terminant dans les profondeurs Au bout d’un certain temps j’ai avalés, le « solide » ne passe du classement, mon capital repris mes esprits et je suis plus. Mon chemin de croix points ne serait pas terrible redescendu sur Bourg commence … mais ce serait toujours ça. d’Oisans. Hé oui, car il a fallut Inutile de vous décrire la la faire aussi cette descente, et montée du Galibier. Si vous Donc, après quand même un rarement une descente ne avez déjà subit une défaillance, petit détour à mon hôtel pour m’aura parut aussi pénible (3) faite appel à vos souvenirs et changer et varier ma boisson, vous comprendrez. Seulement j’attaque (façon de parler) la Conclusions en ces moments, je suis dans un pente sèche, dés le pied avec J’ai terminé à la 1458ème place de ces cols légendaires parmi ses14%. Je suis « mort » je n’ai sur 2164 arrivant(e)s dans le les plus difficiles, après quoi il plus de force, se sont temps de 10 H 52 mn 18 secondes Vainqueur de l’épreuve : Pascal ROTA dans le temps de 6 H 29 mn 53 secondes

(1) Ce récit s’intègre dans le déroulement de celui parut l’an dernier. Voir revue BIG No 26 Pages 50 / 51. Correction : Pour la roue, j’avais noté à l’avant alors que c’était l’arrière. (2) A cette époque, ils n’étaient pas encore numérotés et ne portaient donc pas de nom. (3) Revue BIG No 25 : « Une journée mémorable au Mont-Ventoux ». Là aussi le final se termina par une me faudra faire la longue simplement les nerfs et la descente pénible. descente pour rejoindre la motivation qui me permettent vallée et Bourg d’Oisans, pied de continuer, et au bout de 1 Vous allez penser, comment de l’Alpe d’Huez un « km, je m’arrête pour récupérer. fait-il pour se souvenir aussi monument » du cyclisme. Mais Je n’ai plus rien mangé depuis bien d’évènements aussi attendez, lorsque je dis longue bien longtemps et même la lointains ? Très simple, ils descente, ne vous y tromper boisson me fait dégoût ; j’en m’ont profondément marqués, pas ; parfois la route s’élève de arrive à vomir le peu que j’ai en outre j’ai toujours pris des nouveau avec bien des ingurgité. Je resterai ainsi notes ; donc si vous le désirez, passages pentus ; la galère pendant un long moment l’an prochain vous pourrez lire quoi! prostré avant de repartir et je mon aventure sur Bordeaux – peu vous assurer qu’il en fut Paris 1988, car les années 1980 Voila ce qui fut fait, et je me ainsi tout au long de la montée. furent mes meilleurs années. retrouvais au pied des 13 Facile de calculer le nombre Par la suite les ennuies de santé kilomètres de la montée « d’arrêt qu’il put y avoir sachant s’enchaînèrent. mythique » avec ses 21 lacets le nombre de kilomètre pour numérotés (2) portant le nom cette montée. Ça y est je suis

51 BIG Review 2013

Gerbier de Jonc, Tatras e qualcos’altro

Gianni SOLENI

Archivio il 2012 come uno dei migliori anni della mia storia ciclistica, probabilmente il più “internazionale” tra tutti anche se con chilometraggio inferiore rispetto alla media di quando partecipavo alle Granfondo.

Tra la fine di aprile e l’inizio di maggio sono stato in Francia a ovest di Gap. Sono rimasto per alcuni giorni da queste parti e nonostante il freddo, è pure nevicato a quota relativamente bassa, sono riuscito a scalare diversi montagne. Ho poi proseguito il mio viaggio spaventosa “folata” laterale mi visitare altre cose, ogni tanto si puntando a nord e dopo ha fatto cadere di lato sui può fare il turista. Ho visitato Aubenas sono arrivato in zona cavetti di recinzione per le gli “Alignements de Carnac”, i Gerbier de Jonc: una magnifica mucche…ho preso pure la Dolmen, Menhir e Tumoli della scalata ed una magnifica “scossa”! L’ultima salita da zona ed anche l’isola di montagna. Qui vicino nasce la affrontare era il Mezilhac: Gavrinis dove c’è una Loira e tutt’intorno è un credo di aver impiegato più di primordiale tomba con Paradiso ciclistico. Avevo un’ora, mi sono pure fermato a spettacolari e antichissime programmato un giro che oltre riprendere fiato e ho concluso il incisioni. Poi via avanti con il al Gerbier comprendeva altri giro alle 8 di sera ma pieno di Mur de Bretagne dove BIG e che avrei dovuto soddisfazione. capeggia una gigantografia di terminare intorno alle 16-17 del Hinault, poi i tre Menez a sud pomeriggio. Non avevo fatto i In auto ho poi percorso la di Brest, dove mi sono fermato conti però, con il vento: strada sempre verso nord-ovest. ricordando la Parigi-Brest- terribile! Di fronte o laterale Li non mi aspettavano solo i Parigi cui partecipai nel 2003, non mi permetteva di avanzare BIG della Bretagna e l’altro Menez, il Toullaeron, come normalmente faccio, una Normandia, avevo anche da Bel Air e alla bellissima ascesa a Cap Frehel. Il freddo però continuava anche se le giornate erano soleggiate, mi sono beccato un bel raffreddore ma avevo la forza di continuare e fare anche l’ultimo Big della zona, il Mont Dol. Cortissimo e durissimo proprio un vero muro “Belga”, da qui la vista spazia verso il mare ed a est per la prima volta ho scorto l’inconfondibile sagoma del Mont St. Michel che poi ho visitato attraversando quel famoso tratto di mare con la navetta. Ancora a nord poi per la visita alle spiagge dello Sbarco degli Alleati: ho avuto momenti di commozione in tutta la zona ma soprattutto alla visita del Cimitero Americano.

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Sono poi giunto a Caen corsa con battello-treno-taxi- quelli del Raduno in esattamente sul porto di treno-battello ed in meno di 24 Repubblica Ceca, Polonia e Ouistrheham, da dove in primis ore ero di nuovo in Francia. Slovacchia inoltre Ungheria in bici e percorrendo la Questa veloce trasferta ha fatti tutti, e Croazia. ciclabile lungo il fiume Orne comunque peggiorato il mio ho raggiunto il Pegasus Bridge, stato di salute, perciò ho Della settimana con gli amici famoso ponte conquistato dagli “dovuto” decidere di rientrare del Big voglio solo ricordare Alleati nelle prime ore dello velocemente in Italia lasciando l’ultima cena: eravamo a mio sbarco. In secondis nonostante purtroppo “sul campo” tutti i avviso nel più bel posto di tutta la febbre…ma ormai ero BIG che avevo in programma la settimana un bellissimo lì….ho preso il battello e sono di fare nelle Ardenne e nella albergo in Slovacchia, ed alla andato in Inghilterra dove zona dei Ballons…..un vero fine dell’ultima cena ci siamo tramite il treno e poi in taxi peccato. trovati intorno ad un tavolo sono arrivato a Sthonenge: le dove si parlava in 4/5 lingue pietre megalitiche più famose Alle fine di giugno sono partito diverse: una Babele di suoni e del mondo. Il tassista alla volta dell’Est Europa per il canti in Francese, Italiano, vedendomi in uno stato Raduno Big sui Tatras. Sono Slovacco, Tedesco, pietosamente infreddolito mi ha partito qualche giorno prima e Inglese…con le lingue acceso il riscaldamento a tutta rientrato diversi giorni dopo “sciolte” da un eccezionale ma è valso il solo tempo della così da potere scalare diversi digestivo offerto dall’amico corsa. Veramente ho fatto una BIG sia in Slovenia, Austria, Rastislav e dalla sua graziosa e simpatica compagna. Al rientro avevo un paio di mesi per prepararmi all’ultima trasferta ciclistica dell’anno: il Ladak! Per abituarmi all’altitudine sono stato nelle giornate precedenti al Sestriere quota 2000m ed ho scalato passi sino a 2800m ma non ho potuto fare quello che avevo in mente causa una anticipata nevicata: era il 1° settembre.

Il 18 dello stesso mese sono partito e ritrovati gli altri a Kathmandu ci siamo recati il Ladak. I passi non sono numerosi ma sono altissimi, ci sono i due carrozzabili più alti al mondo: il Khardung La e il Thaglang La rispettivamente 5602 metri e 5328 il secondo. Ne ho scalati altri due poco sotto i 5000, e due sterrati ancora sopra i 5000 metri: esperienza indimenticabile. La cultura Tibetana, gli Stupa, i Monasteri, i Guru, la valle dell’Indo e del Shiok e naturalmente le lunghe, lunghissime salite per giungere con la fedele bici a oltre 5000 metri resteranno sempre nella mie mente e nel mio cuore.

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The Stoss (BIG 555) it is raining heavily and it is Dirk BUSCHMANN and too cold for summertime. 400 Anja von HEYDEBRECK people from Appenzell are hiding on top of the hill, just Coming from Germany or where we are standing now. neighbouring countries to a They are waiting for the holiday in the Alps, one may be enemy. From the Rhine valley, tempted to quickly rush 1200 well-armed soldiers from through the Rhine valley the Habsburg army are between Lake Constance and approaching by foot and on Chur. But the BIG shows that it horseback. Confident of their is worth to pay closer attention victory, this elite troop doesn’t to this region – for instance to feel the need to explore the the Stoss. To explore this BIG, terrain – a big mistake. As one best starts on the east side. cyclists we know how The old road – Alte exhausted we are after a hard Stossstrasse –from Altstätten is ascent. And we try to avoid very rewarding, due to its muddy slopes when we are exposed location above the riding a bike with slick tyres. Rhine valley and the company The Austrian soldiers in their of a cog railway. If you now heavy armours are facing In the 14th century, Appenzell think that this road must be similar problems. Moreover, was under the rule of the quite steep, you’re perfectly due to wet bowstrings, they are monastery St. Gallen, which right – it goes straight up the hardly able to use their bows was at that time on its decline hill and features several and crossbows. due to mismanagement. When stretches around 20%. The new The people from Appenzell are the monastery tried to main road is much less steep, in a better position: They just compensate this through going up in hairpins that make wait on top of the hill, having increased taxes (as we have the road very popular for big stones ready for rolling seen it in today’s Europe), the motorcyclists. Both roads come them down the hill. Barefooted Appenzell people revolted and together shortly before the top, they stand firmly in the mud. won in a first battle against St. where you will find an old- The Habsburg troops are Gallen. But then the situation style guesthouse (don’t miss to completely surprised by the became threatening for the step in for a coffee or stones thrusted downwards and Appenzell people. Their refreshment), the battle-chapel the following attack with general urge for freedom (think Stoss and a historical halberds (sort of a combination also of the young Switzerland monument. of a lance and an axe) nearby) was a source of conducted in a wedge annoyance for the mighty Now it’s time for a different formation. The army is Habsburg regents. They kind of travel, a travel in time dissolved and put to flight, with planned to make an example of to the year 1405. On June 17th around 400 soldiers being Appenzell. Together with St. killed. More than one hundred Gallen, Habsburg went into suits of armour – at that time war against Appenzell after worth a fortune - are captured. first having isolated it Only 20 of the Appenzell politically. people die, among them Uli Indirectly, the outstanding and Rotach, who is honoured as a surprising victory of Appenzell hero of the people since then. at the Battle of the Stoss was The memory of this fierce also a victory for the young battle is kept vivid by a Switzerland. Appenzell, which pilgrimage of the Innerrhoden so far belonged to the Swabian people to the battle chapel Städtebund (league of towns), (since 1597). but was heavily disappointed for not having received What is the historical context support, turned to orient itself of the Battle of the Stoss, self-confidently more towards which was part of the Switzerland. In 1411 it joined Appenzell Wars (1401-1429)? the Swiss Confederation.

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Melchsee-Frutt

Meindert BRUGMAN

In mijn omzwervingen door de Alpen kwam ik terecht in Kerns (Zwitserland). Hotel was niet zo gezellig. 's Avonds om half negen kwam er een bus Japanners aan, die voor ik ontbeet al weer op pad gingen. Voor de rest waren er geen gasten. Hotelhouder was wel heel vriendelijk, zo ook het overige personeel. Eten was redelijk tot goed.

Dag drie (23 juli) dat ik daar was, had ik genoeg moed verzameld voor het zwaarste stuk fietsen in mijn leven (tot nu toe). Na eerst wat warm km, gemiddeld 10,5%. Ik snap Tannalp (1977m). Het was gefietst te zijn, ging ik op pad nog steeds niet dat ik dat heb mijn voornemen nog een col naar de beklimming met de gered, maar de cijfers liegen (Jochpass) te scoren daar, maar bijzondere naam Melchsee- niet. Ik schrijf dit verhaal nu dat lukte niet, het laatste stuk Frutt. Het zal wel een afwijking een half jaar later, maar ben de was onverhard, en dat lukte van mij zijn, maar als ik aan ontberingen vergeten. Wel niet met mijn racebandjes. Het die beklimming denk, komt weet ik dat het op laatst zo was juni en het was fris. Je kon altijd "zeebanket" in mijn smal was, dat ik blij was als duidelijk zien dat de natuur op hoofd, en laat zeebanket nu net een auto me weer had achter was bij Nederland. De mijn favoriete chocolade zijn. ingehaald, zonder dat ik van de boterbloem bloeit bij ons in Het eerste stuk was niet zo weg werd gedrukt. Autorijders april, nu is het juli!! Voor ik steil, weg was goed, landschap kunnen zich in mijn ogen slecht afdaalde nog wat gegeten. Zeer afwisselend. Maar halverwege inleven in hoe "lastig" fietsen voldaan kwam ik in het hotel (Stöckalp) werd de weg smaller is, als de klim eigenlijk net te aan: I habe es gemacht. en steiler, en steiler en nog zwaar voor je is. Het zij zo. steiler. Het was hier ook Boven heb ik nog een stuk 's Nachts droomde ik dat ik een eenrichtingverkeer. Volgens langs de Melchsee en de kruiwagen zeebanket moest Strava was het de laatste 7,9 Tannensee gefietst, tot de opeten.

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Mannen met een missie niets minder dan de kilometer weer af naar het Martin KOOL Kitzbüheler Horn. De klim naar restaurant. De Goulashsoep in de Kitzbüheler Horn geldt als Oostenrijk doet het altijd goed! Als ik op 22 juni 2012 ’s een van de zwaarste in de Met een sticker, vanwege het avonds mijn bed op zoek vraag professionele wielersport. De goed volbrengen van de klim, ik me af hoe dat de komende 6 constante extreme stijging van op zak dalen we voldaan af dagen verder moet. Philip en 15 tot 18% en het feit dat je in naar de auto. Nu snel op weg ik zijn namelijk deze morgen de volle zon rijdt zorgen ervoor naar Mühlbach am Höchkonig. heel vroeg vertrokken vanuit dat de klim extra zwaar is, Een kleine 80 kilometer met de Maastricht naar Lofer. Een terwijl de afstand (7,7 km) en auto. We parkeren de auto en klein Oostenrijks plaatsje nabij het hoogteverschil (920 m) starten aan de relatief de Duitse grens. steviger is dan bij veel eenvoudige klim naar Arthur In Lofer staat de 1e van, wat beroemde Tour-de-France- Haus. Vergeleken met de eerste later blijkt, 16 beklimmingen bergen. Al snel zit de hartslag drie is dit een makkie. Af en op het programma. De op maximaal. Ook hier bewijst toe een steile hecto maar als je Höhenstrasse Loferer alm om het kleine verzet van de MTB 8 kilometer beschikbaar hebt precies te zijn. In 8,5 kilometer weer zijn diensten. Hoewel de voor 600 hoogtemeters mag je overbrug je hier de 1000 benen het toch moeten doen. niet klagen. We dalen weer af hoogtemeters om op de top van De laatste 2 km van de klim is naar Mühlbach en fietsen gelijk 1628 meter te komen. Lekker een privé weg in eigendom van door naar het Dientner Sattel. begin met 800 autokilometers de ÖRF (the National Austrian Een doorgaande, brede weg in de benen. Gelukkig hebben Broadcasting Company) waar met aardig wat verkeer. Ook we de MTB mee dus we geen auto´s mogen komen. Een eenvoudig maar het is de 3e kunnen een kleine molen slagboom zorgt er voor dat er van vandaag dus de benen malen. Maar we zijn er nog niet geen auto´s en motoren door voelen zwaar aan. Eenmaal voor dag 1. Ook de Steinplatte kunnen. Voetgangers moeten terug in Pension Noëlla hebben Kammerkör Bergbahnen moet door een draaihek. Ook fietsers we alweer praatjes. Het gaat er nog aan geloven. Deze mogen er niet door of je moet best goed. Morgen naar Italië! beklimmen we vanuit onder de slagboom door Waidring. Hier zijn 7 kilometer kruipen. Dat doen we dus maar. Dag 3 beschikbaar om je 900 meter We willen toch echt de ultieme Tijdens het ontbijt bedenk ik omhoog te brengen. Pfieuwww top bereiken. Met een laatste me pas dat het mijn verjaardag weet ik nog uit te brengen als krachtsinspanning weten we is. Ik was zo “In de ban van de ik op de top bij een (ook hier weer) de zendmast te klim” dat zo’n futiliteit naar de nietszeggende zendmast sta uit bereiken. We zakken snel die 2 achtergrond verdwijnt. te puffen. Een stevig begin van een weekje klimmen in Oostenrijk en Italië! Als mijn hoofd het kussen raakt sluiten mijn ogen als vanzelf. Ik droom al snel van wat nog komen gaat.

Dag 2 Pension Noëlla in Sankt Johann is een aanrader. Een mooi uitvalsbasis voor de beklimmingen in de Kitzbüheler Alpen, prima eten en een gastvrije eigenaar. Het ontbijt gaat er snel in want vandaag moet er weer stevig geklommen worden. De benen zijn nog stram van de 1e dag maar we hebben een missie. We parkeren de auto aan de voet van

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Onderweg naar Italië pakken Deze pas staat op het deze trip. De Monte Paularo. we nog een Oostenrijkse BIG programma van de Giro 2013 Na 5 kilometer fietsen we tegen mee. Het Neues Luckner Haus en wij mogen er nu al op. Het een blokkade aan. Bosarbeiders ligt zo mooi op de route dat we is een fraaie klim door rustige hebben de weg (nou ja weg) die niet kunnen laten liggen. streken en over smalle wegen. geblokkeerd vanwege Nabij Huben stappen we op de Op de top staat een eenzame kapwerkzaamheden. fiets voor deze prachtige klim. boerderij in een alpenweide. De Oost Europeanen zijn de Het “haus” op de top mag er zijn, evenals de serveerster die ons (alweer) een goulashsoep serveert. Terug bij de auto rijden we door naar het zuiden. Via de Plöckenpass rijden we Italië in. Vorig jaar beklommen we deze pas in de stromende regen. Ons reisdoel is Sutrio. Een doorgwinterende bergfietser weet dan welke col er op het programma staat. Juist ja, ik schenk mij zelf de beklimming van de Monte Zoncolan voor mijn 55e verjaardag. Eerst brengen we onze spullen naar Hotel da Alvise. Ook weer zo’n mooie uitvalsbasis. Dan de fiets op voor de Zoncolan. Van de ‘makkelijke’ kant zeggen sommigen. Maar 13 kilometer voor 1200 hoogtemeters is niet mis. Vooral de laatste 7 kilometer van deze Girobeslisser hakken er in. Op de top hef ik de fiets boven mij uit voor een foto. Een mooi cadeau!

Dag 4 Niks geen toerisme hier. Mooi! moeilijkste niet en we mogen Dit is alweer de 4e dag. We We dalen af en gaan naar er langs. Het begint te regenen. starten in Paularo voor de Ligosullo. Daar slaan we af De 1e druppels van deze trip. Passo del Cason di Lanza. voor de 1e onverharde klim van De regen geeft de klim een mysterieus karakter en maakt het rijden over de stenen er niet eenvoudiger op. Het is hier wel heel fraai en stil. In het laatste open deel van de klim is de natuur overweldigend. Meertjes, watervalletjes en prachtige vergezichten bepalen het beeld. We schieten wat plaatjes en dalen af. In Hotel Da Alvise genieten we voor de 2e keer van een geweldig stuk rundvlees. Dik verdiend!

Dag 5 Na een flinke verplaatsing met de auto komen we aan in Savogna. In 14 kilometer klimmen we naar de Mataiur. Niet heel bijzonder maar het

57 BIG Review 2013 uitzicht op de top is fraai. Je Wij verbleven in: hebt mooi zicht op het vlakke Sankt Johann: Pension Noëlla http://www.pension-noella.com/ deel van Friuli. Snel weer naar Sutrio: Osteria Da Alvise http://www.osteriadaalvise.it/ de auto want we willen nog Rovereto: Agritur Masi Brenta http://www.agriturismotrentinomb.it/ naar Mangrtsko Sedlo, een Sloveense klim. Slovenië is door naar de top. Ook daar het wegdek is heel slecht. hier prachtig. Via Volce, weer een oorlogsmonument. Er Vooral het laatste deel vraagt Kolbarid en Bovec rijden we liggen hier een kleine 25.000 stuurmanskunst en een groot naar Strmec. Daar in de buurt Italiaanse en Oostenrijkse hart. De weg is smal en slecht start het onverharde deel van de militairen begraven. Allemaal begaanbaar en de afgrond is Mangrstko. De klim voert ons hier gesneuveld in de 1e dichtbij. Je maakt hier naar de top die precies op de wereldoorlog. Als je dat prachtige plaatjes van het grens van Slovenië en Italië bedenkt wordt je wel even stil. kalkmassief. Helaas is het nu ligt. De grijze rotsen geven de We arriveren laat in Rovereto. mistig en zo ontgaat ons een klim een apart aanzien. Op de Gelukkig heeft onze nieuwe deel van de schoonheid. De top zijn de meertjes van Fusine huisbaas nog wat eten bewaard. gele rifugio is te zien in het prachtig te zien. We gunnen Nog één dag fietsen en dan laatste deel van de klim. ons even tijd om hiervan te naar huis. Eenmaal daar laten we ons genieten. Dan zoeven we terug verwennen met een om op weg te gaan naar de Dag 7 ‘galgenmaal”. Als we weer laatste BIG van vandaag. De We gaan deze laatste dag op zijn afgedaald pakken we nog Sella Carnizza moet er nog aan weg naar de Pasubio. We ‘even’ de Campogrosso mee. geloven. Door een dicht moeten naar Vallarsa maar Een aardig klimmetje maar in begroeid bos klimmen we over wegwerkers gooien roet in het het licht van het geweld wat we een smal weggetje naar de top. eten. Uiteindelijk rijden we een achter de kiezen hebben is dit De tijd heeft hier stil gestaan. mijl op zeven om bij onze te vergelijken met de klim van Dat zien we ook aan het bestemming te komen. Maar de van Brienenoordbrug. wegdek. Dat is echt heel slecht. dan heb je wel wat! De Pasubio Gelukkig komen we zonder wordt het hoogtepunt van onze De trip is goed voor 16 BIGgen lekke banden boven en even reis. Via de strade degli Eroi en bijna 16000 hoogtemeters. later ook weer beneden. We (de Heldenstraat) gaan we naar Missie volbracht! Morgen weer gaan terug naar Sutrio voor Rifugio Papa op de top van de naar huis. onze laatste nacht hier. Pasubio. Ook hier herinnert veel aan de gevechten die hier www.martinkool.blogspot.com Dag 6 gedurende de 1e wereldoorlog Deze dag staat in het teken van zijn geleverd. Gedenkstenen, een lange verplaatsing naar tunnels die hiervoor zijn Rovereto. Maar ook dan vinden aangelegd en er zijn zelfs nog we nog tijd voor 2 BIGgen. In loopgraven aanwezig. De MTB Pederobba parkeren we de is hier echt noodzakelijk want Pasubio auto. De Passo Tomba is de volgende in de rij van 16. De pas laat zich typeren door een ultra steil begin door het bos en een eenvoudiger slotakkoord. Op de top staat een monument ter herinnering aan de bloedige gevechten die hier zijn geleverd in de 1e wereldoorlog. Nu we hier toch in de buurt zijn gaan we ook maar door voor de langste klim van deze trip. De Monte Grappa bereik je vanuit Romano d’Ezzelino in 27 kilometer. We peddelen rustig omhoog. Af en toe vlakt de klim wat af. Dat is maar goed ook want alle inspanningen beginnen hun tol te eisen. Toch draaien we redelijk eenvoudig

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BIG LAZIO

Giordano CASTAGNOLI Latium and ends in Molise at S. bella fontana sosta piacevole Prèsident U.I.C. Vincenzo al Volturno’ abbey). per provvista d’acqua e da lì 2.To achieve two important inizia la salita a tornanti che e-mail: BIG summits in this area: porta a Filettino a quota 1037. [email protected] Campo Staffi and Campo Catino. Going upward again, there is BIG 781 Campo Staffi e another km followed by a BIG 782 Campo Catino - BIG 781 Campo Staffi è il descent to Aniene valley at the Agosto 2012 primo traguardo. Lasciato same sea level (600 m) as Fiuggi si inizia a salire verso il Fiuggi. The ascent up to Trevi passo della Sella a quota 931 nel Lazio is along a narrow senza eccessive difficoltà con and fairly busy road that bella vista sulla città antica, reaches 821 m of altitude in dopo 5 km si arriva al valico this hill town. Then it is (2 Passo della Sella) e si downhill again, proceeding scende su Altipiani di toward Pantano. The fountain Arcinazzo (845 msm). there is a pleasant rest stop before attacking the BIG 781 Campo Staffi is the switchbacks up to Filettino first goal. I leave from Fiuggi (1037 m.a.s.l.). where the road begins to rise toward Passo della Sella (931 Questo paese è posto per lo più m.a.s.l.) without too much lungo la strada, grande difficulty. The climb offers nice movimento di turisti in questo overviews of the old hill town. periodo. Oltrepassato l’abitato

At 5 kms, the pass is achieved. cessa il traffico, solo alte Per la scelta delle vacanze Then there is a 1 km descent to montagne attorno e si procede estive ho scelto la Ciociaria, la Altopiani di Arcinazzo. verso l’alto per arrivare prima zona a sud del Lazio al confine al Passo S. Antonio quota 1608 con l’Abruzzo. Si torna a salire per 1 Km e poi da dove, scendendo inizia la

discesa ripida fino al fiume regione Abruzzo, mentre For summer vacation, I chose Aniene a quota 600 come continuando verso l’alto a to visit Ciociaria in the Fiuggi. Si riparte in salita sinistra dopo 3,5 km si arriva southern part of Latium, close direzione Trevi nel Lazio su alla meta di Campo Staffi. Una to the Abruzzo region. una strada stretta e piuttosto serie di costruzioni con poca

trafficata, da quota 821 si fantasia accolgono il visitatore, Base all’Hotel Iris Crillion a ridiscende a valle di nuovo e si dovrebbe essere una stazione Fiuggi, amena città termale prosegue verso Pantano. Alla sciistica ma all’apparenza ha posta in collina a 600 m.s.m. Oltre la visita alle città d’arte e le numerose Abbazie (siamo sulla via benedicti che da Norcia, patria di San Benedetto, attraversa il Lazio e termina in Molise all’abbazia di San Vincenzo al Volturno), volevo conquistare 2 BIG posti in quella zona entrambi a ca. 1800 m di altezza.

My base is Hotel Iris Crillion at Fiuggi, a hilly spa town 600 m.s.a.l. (meters above sea level). I had two goals: 1.To visit historical art cities and different abbeys (we are on Via Benedicti – San Benedetto road begins at Norcia, crosses

59 BIG Review 2013 poco da offrire.

Filettino is primarily located along the road, and there are numerous tourists there in the summer time. Once I leave the town, the traffic is gone, and nothing is left but high mountains that surround me. After 10 kms ascending a pass, S. Antonio arrives (1608 m.a.s.l.). The descent brings me to the beginning of the Abruzzo region. Once I proceed left for 3.5 km, Campo Staffi is reached (1836 m.a.s.l.). A series of nondescript buildings welcome visitors. It is a ski resort during the winter.

In compenso le trattorie che porta a Campo Catino, una My wife, who comes by car, offrono un bel pasto a base di salita lunga ben 18 km. meets me for lunch at Hotel agnello alla brace, non c’è male Eden, where I have a good dopo una scalata non difficile A short rest at King Bar (where relationship with the owners. ma lunga e contrassegnata da people prepare handmade Afterward, we cross the crater tanti sali scendi che Amaretti), then on to the by foot, reaching the rocks innervosiscono il ciclista. middle of the historic center. across the way and enjoy the Turning right, there begins an panorama. On the other hand, there are 18 Km ascent leading to restaurants that offer a good Campo Catino. Questi due BIG del Lazio meal, especially grilled lamb meridionale, sebbene lunghi specialties, ideal after the long Panorama stupendo, nessun parecchi Km non sono difficili ride of ups and downs that traffico si procede per uno scalatore, quello che irritate many cyclists. tranquillamente anche perché la impressiona è l’altezza delle pendenza è costante sul 6-7% montagne che per secoli sono BIG 782 Campo Catino: che non dà preoccupazione. In state una vera barriera tra Lazio Sempre partendo da Fiuggi si cima capisco il significato del ed Abruzzo. scende verso Alatri e si inizia a nome Catino: si tratta di un salire da quota 481 direzione cratere di vulcano spento. Although these two BIG of Guarcino lungo la via southern Latium are several Benedicti. Guarcino paese There are marvelous views, no kms long, they are not so conosciuto per i suoi amaretti, car traffic, a constant 6-7% difficult to achieve. What ha già con i suoi 625 m di grade that makes for a nice remains impressive is the altezza una posizione ride to the top. At the top, the height of the mountains which, panoramica sulla valle. meaning of Campo Catino over the centuries, were a becomes clear to me: I am at major barrier between Latium BIG 782 Campo Catino starts the edge of a dead volcano’s and Abruzzo. from Fiuggi, descends toward crater. Alatri (starting at 481 m.a.s.l.), follows through Via Benedicti Dopo aver pranzato Guarcino (625 m.a.s.l.), a hill all’Hotel Eden, in town that overlooks a valley simpatica compagnia dei known for its Amaretti proprietari, con la moglie, (macaroons). che mi ha raggiunto in auto verso la fine della Ristorato al King bar (dove nel salita, si decide di retro bottega fanno a mano gli traversare a piedi il Catino amaretti), a centro paese storico raggiungendo le rocce del curva a destra ed inizia la via lato opposto per ammirare il panorama.

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1001 Miglia La più lunga randonnèe d'Europa nel paese più bello del mondo. Garmin che segnava +44,7°. quanto riguarda la distanza che Gigi CANDELI Non mi era mai capitato di la durata in bici). pedalare in quelle condizioni. Ho cominciato a pensare alla Anche nei tratti in discesa si Il giorno dopo, partenza alle 5 1001 Miglia subito dopo aver aveva poco sollievo perchè e, con il fresco, scaliamo concluso felicemente la PBP l’aria surriscaldata bruciava la l'unico BIG di tutto il percorso, nel 2011. braccia, le gambe, per non l’Eremo della Verna, parlare del viso e degli occhi in transitando quindi per Caprese Anche l'amico Yuji Kaneda, particolare. Michelangelo, Anghiari, Valico ciclista giapponese conosciuto della Foce, poi la piatta e al pasta party di St. Quentin Partiamo da Nerviano, (foto 1) bollente Val di Chiana fino al all'arrivo della PBP, ha che è considerata la culla dei controllo al Velodromo di certamente contribuito, con le randonneurs italiani, alle 21.45 Montallese, poco prima di sue mail, a rafforzare la del giovedì 16 Agosto e dopo Chiusi.

Costeggiato il Lago Trasimeno, puntiamo su Todi (foto 4), dove arriviamo all’imbrunire, dopo tantissime soste alle fontanine e bar presi d'assalto lungo il percorso. Timbro, rapido rifornimento e subito via, perchè ci attendono impazienti nell'albergo che ho prenotato sul lago di Bolsena, che non abbiamo, purtroppo, potuto ammirare perchè era ormai notte. Ci consola il sapere che abbiamo raggiunto in sole due tappe il punto più a sud di tutto il percorso. Da qui si punta a nord verso l'arrivo, ma sarà anche la parte più impegnativa.

Ci facciamo un ricchissimo decisione di affrontare insieme tutta l’estenuante, noiosa piatto di spaghetti alla a lui anche questa incredibile pianura Padana (addolcita solo carbonara, molto apprezzato da sfida. dal saluto che le nostre mogli Yuji, poi a letto. (foto 2) sono venute a portarci E così, dopo lunghi mesi di al controllo di Massa Finalese, Ripartenza ancora alle 5 verso meticolosa preparazione sulle insieme ad un ottimo e Pitigliano con le sue case di lunghe e lunghissime distanze, graditissimo (foto 3) gelato), tufo, che ammiriamo illuminata mi sono ritrovato a Nerviano, affrontiamo l’appennino dalla calda luce dell'alba e nell'interland milanese, con forlivese al Passo dei Tre dopo, Saturnia con le sue terme Yuji e con gli inseparabili Faggi, poi, dopo il controllo di solfuree che emanano un amici modenesi, Alberto, Dicomano superiamo anche il inconfondibile odore. Carmine e Lorenzo. facile, ma lungo, Valico di Croce a Mori. Arriviamo a Dopo Scansano, per molti km Direi che il problema maggiore Poppi, dove avevo prenotato il vediamo in lontananza il Mar sia stato il gran caldo che ha primo albergo, poco dopo le Tirreno che a noi sembra come oppresso l'Italia in Agosto 23. un miraggio, immersi come 2012. siamo nella calura. Quindi abbiamo fatto ben 511 Durante la terza tappa, forse la Km in 25 ore e trenta (un Affrontiamo qui il tratto più più dura, prima di Montalcino record per tutti noi sia per impegnativo (foto 5), sia per i ho scattato una foto al mio dislivelli con continui

61 BIG Review 2013 saliscendi che per il caldo torrido passando per i piccoli borghi di Polveraia, Granaione e Cinigiano prima di affrontare la lunga e assolata strada che porta al Passo del Lume Spento e quindi a Montalcino tra gli splendidi vigneti del Brunello Banfi. Ci sentiamo un pò come sulle strade di casa nostra abituati a passarci nelle innumerevoli edizioni dell'Eroica finora disputate.

Superate le stupende e fotogeniche Crete Senesi (foto 6) arriviamo a Castelnuovo della Berardenga verso le 20,30 (foto 7). Ormai è impossibile messa in occasione del Palio percorriamo tutta fino a Piazza raggiungere Colle Val d’Elsa dell’Assunta. al Serchio. Breve sosta, dove avevo prenotato il terzo naturalmente, per una foto al Hotel. La Cattedrale però ce la caratteristico Ponte della gustiamo tutta come si deve, Maddalena a Borgo a Per fortuna Carmine, in illuminata appena dalla luce Mozzano. grandissima forma, va in rosata dell'aurora. avanscoperta e trova una Ma il tempo stringe e allora Qui sentiamo aria di casa carinissima nonnina che ci via verso Colle Val d’Elsa e nostra dato che la provincia di affitta due camere per la notte. subito dopo San Gimignano Modena è giusto di là dal Il mattino dopo, piccolo (foto 8), che insisto per crinale appenninico. Potrebbe assaggio di strade bianche attraversarla nel centro storico essere una via di fuga per un dell’Eroica nei pressi di Siena e potere ammirare anche questo ritorno inglorioso. Nessuno di prima di entrare in città. E' nostro piccolo gioiello noi la prende minimamente in ancora buio e il dover medioevale che desta considerazione e si va avanti. affrontare un paio di chilometri l'ammirazione di Yuji. di sterrato crea qualche rriviamo dopo le 20 ad Aulla. apprensione nell'amico Dopo il controllo di Montaione Anche il 4° pernottamento giapponese (che stenta a ci dirigiamo verso la pianura programmato (a Deiva Marina) credere che si possano passando l’Arno a Santa Croce salta e troviamo lì per lì un percorrere più di cento e dopo Altopascio puntiamo alberghetto confortevole che ci chilometri sterrati durante verso la Garfagnana che ospita. Questa sera, al l'Eroica). ristorante, al posto della Purtroppo solita pasta, ci l’ingresso alla facciamo una Piazza del Campo, bella tagliata forse la più bella con rucola e piazza del mondo, grana. Andiamo che io speravo di a riposare molto potere mostrare a soddisfatti. Yuji, ci è precluso da un inflessibile Domani ci quanto sgarbato attende una vigile urbano che tappa sta presidiando estremamente l’accesso, dato che impegnativa sia sono ancora in dal punto di corso, alle 6 del vista altimetrico mattino del 20 che Agosto, i lavori per chilometrico. rimuovere la sabbia Abbiamo deciso

62 BIG Review 2013 ad arrivare a Nerviano senza ulteriori pernottamenti: sono 335 km. con più di 3100 m. di dislivello.

Quindi anticipiamo la partenza alle 4 e percorriamo la Val di Vara ricordando la tragedia dell'alluvione del Novembre scorso, scolliniamo alla Colla di Gritta e scendiamo a Levanto per poi risalire subito alla Colletta M. Guaitarola e ridiscendere a Deiva ove ci aspetta un controllo (foto 9).

Risaliamo ancora per raggiungere l’Aurelia appena del fratello Serse. Tante le foto assalire dalle zanzare. E' anche sotto il Passo del Bracco poi, che scattiamo a ricordo del questo il bello delle randonnèe, finalmente, giù verso il mare a nostro passaggio (foto 10-11). e cioè il clima di solidarietà e Sestri Levante che superiamo amicizia che si stabilisce tra chi di slancio in mezzo ad un Partiamo verso le 19 e vi partecipa a differenza delle traffico caotico e con una mancano ancora quasi 120 Km. GranFondo, dove ognuno corre calura afosa ancor più Comincia a far sera. Il nostro per sé. insopportabile. Sosta a gruppetto si è rinforzato per la Lavagna, prima di abbandonare presenza di altri 5-6 amici e Attraversiamo, purtroppo al la Riviera Ligure, per un gelato quindi il lavoro in testa viene buio, il Parco del Ticino, senza ed una Coca Cola ormai rituale. meglio ripartito. poter godere del paesaggio che

ci circonda e che sicuramente Affrontiamo la lunghissima e Decidiamo di fermarci per un meriterebbe una visita, e caldissima (39°) Valle di ultimo ristoro nel piccolo borgo arriviamo finalmente a Fontanabuona che lentamente di Molino dei Torti, non Nerviano. ci porta sotto al Passo della lontano da Voghera, dove ci Scoffera che è l’ultimo Passo di facciamo una mezza pizza a Alle ore 01,15 del 22 Agosto tutta la randonnèe. Dalla cima testa. Ripartiamo che è già entriamo nello stadio da cui infatti si scende verso la Valle buio, ma dopo pochi siamo partiti. Il Diploma attesta Scrivia e, dopo il controllo di chilometri, una foratura che abbiamo impiegato 123 ore Casella Ligure, velocemente ci dell’amico Yuji, poco prima e 37 minuti, cioè 5 giorni e tre portiamo sotto i Colli del Po, ci costringe ad una ore. Anche questa è fatta. Ma è Tortonesi. sosta forzata stata molto dura (foto 12). proprio in una zona infestata Ora stiamo già pensando al da nuvole di prossimo anno. Avevamo zanzare che pensato di partecipare alla LEL aspettavano (Londra-Edimburgo-Londra). solo noi, belli Purtroppo appena si sono sudati, per aperte le iscrizioni il 5 aggredirci e Gennaio, tutti i 750 posti sono farsi una stati assegnati e noi siamo scorpacciata rimasti esclusi. Pensiamo del nostro quindi di consolarci sangue. In iscrivendoci alla MGM qualche modo (Madrid-Gjion-Madrid) …....di Qui c’è l’ultimo controllo riusciamo a ripartire temendo soli 1200 Km. Dovrebbe essere proprio a Castellania, piccolo però di essere rimasti soli. una passeggiata al confronto paese ben noto a tutti i ciclisti Invece dopo 500-600 metri con la 1001 Miglia. per avere dato i natali al troviamo tutto il resto del Campionissimo. Il timbro e il gruppo che ci sta aspettando In ogni caso potremmo ristoro sono proprio a fianco inanellando giri su giri in una completare una bellissima della tomba del grande Fausto e rotatoria per evitare di farsi tripletta.

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6 BIGs, 4 millions de brebis et plusieurs couleuvres noires. milieu de blocs de rochers aux Marc SÉGUY formes variées évoquant parfois des figures animales. Et Si j’ajoute que le drapeau du avant la dernière partie, on y lieu comporte quatre profils de rencontre la Madone des tête de maure au front ceinturé Neiges qui pourrait aisément d’un bandeau vous devinerez être surnommée « Madone des Pas de difficulté pour cette qu’il s’agit de la Sardaigne, antennes ». grimpée en 2 temps. Pour ce même si le titre est pour qui est des fameux couteaux, 2 l’instant peu explicite. Sur la route du retour nous fabricants parmi les plus C’est par la côte nord-est, longeons des forêts de chêne- connus de l’île sont bien joliment urbanisée et bien liège avant de visiter une des présents dans de petits ateliers entretenue, que commence fameuses tombes des géants de mais il ne sera pas possible notre tour de pays. Nos camps la période nuragique. Oui, voilà d’en voir le moindre de base seront au nombre de 6, un terme nouveau et savant !! exemplaire !!! Ceux-ci dans des campings de bord de Nous ignorions, avant de venir peuvent être admirés sur mer obligatoirement : il n’y a ici, l’existence d’un élément internet ou dans une boutique pas de camp en montagne, à important du patrimoine sarde : de Cagliari par exemple. l’intérieur des terres, dommage. le nuraghe (construction C’est dans un camping de la Le littoral, côté mer creuse). ville de Tortoli que nous Tyrrhénienne, est superbe et il déplaçons la caravane. Pour est assez bien mis en valeur Changement de camping. commencer la visite des contrairement au reste du pays. Direction Siniscola, au sud environs, je m’offre une 2ème Il faut donc, en fonction des 6 d’Olbia. Dès le lendemain, je montée du Genna Silana (BIG BIGs de l’île, bien choisir nos me dirige vers Dorgali pour me n°824) mais par le versant sud cette fois. La traversée du village de Baunei, installé à flanc de montagne et visible de loin, vaut le coup. La montée n’est pas pénible.

Vers le bord de mer, nous allons voir le port d’Arbatax et ses roches rouges ainsi que la petite station balnéaire de Santa Maria Navarrese (olivier millénaire, tour génoise entre autres curiosités). Mais, c’est à vélo que je reprends volontiers la route passant par Lanusei, arrêts. rendre vers Genna Silana (BIG pour Arcu Correboi (BIG n°824), une montée sans n°823) et ensuite me diriger Et pour commencer, à partir de aucune difficulté avec une belle vers Sporting Club Monte Cannigione (au nord d’Olbia) vue sur des collines couvertes Spada (BIG n°822). Ces 2 notre premier point de chute, je de végétation rase. Se rendre à BIGs, situés dans les « Monti vais me rapprocher de Tempio la station balnéaire de Cala dei Gennargentu », sont parfois Pausania pour aller monter Gonone vaut le détour mais il très sauvages et même assez Balestrieri (BIG n°820). La faudra s’en extraire pour se déserts en cette saison. montée est pentue mais remettre sur la fameuse N°125 Intrigués par une publicité et régulière même si par 2 fois le (450 m de dénivelé en 7 km) . désireux de prendre un café, pourcentage semble dépasser Le lendemain, à partir de ce nous sommes allés en voiture les 10%. Le vent ne souffle pas camping, je vais à Pattada, la voir Bruncu Spina, la seule trop fort, il est juste là pour capitale du couteau sarde, puis station de sports d’hiver de l’île rafraîchir, tant mieux. à Ozieri pour monter le passo (au sud du BIG n°822). Si la L’ascension se fait en partie au Punta Massiénnera ( n°821). route est large et bien revêtue,

64 BIG Review 2013 elle se termine en cul de sac sur ou moins bon état. Au sommet, exemple d’anciennes bergeries et la vue sur Cagliari et les http://www.michelcollon.info/ bâtiments en tôles : pas de bar, environs est fort belle. J’ai pu La-Sardaigne-poubelle-de-l- pas de restaurant, pas d’hôtel. aussi constater que l’autre Otan-et.html). Où sont les investisseurs ? Tout versant du Serpeddi était Je n’ai parlé pour l’instant ni reste à faire. également muletier. des brebis ni des couleuvres : Quant à la capitale présentée Dans le village montagnard de dans certains guides telle « un Les premières sont au nombre Fonni ( à plus de 1 000 m bijou qui s’ouvre à de 5 millions alors que la d’altitude) on peut observer de l’improviste, comme une rose, population de l’île n’est que de très belles peintures murales dans la profondeur de la vaste 1,7 millions d’habitants ! J’ai représentant des scènes de la baie (des Anges)», nous roulé presque tous les jours vie quotidienne du village : le l’avons parcourue longuement pendant 3 semaines et berger sarde ; le taciturne à pied. Depuis les remparts finalement je n’ai vu qu’une paysan coiffé de son béret et portant veston ; des scènes religieuses ; des trompe-l’œil ; des silhouettes de femmes sardes toutes de noir vêtues et portant cabas au bout des bras ou charges sur la tête. Prochaine escale : la capitale Cagliari ou pour être précis un camping à l’est vers le capo Carbonara, Villasimius et la Costa Rei autant de lieux et de panoramas agréables à découvrir … en cette saison. Avant de nous rendre dans la ville principale de l’île, je bordés d’aloès et menant à la quinzaine de gros troupeaux. préfère aller grimper le 6ème et Cathédrale di San Maria (et ses Par contre, l’excellent pecorino dernier BIG ( n°825) :Monte mosaïques) le regard porte sur (« Dehors il y a l’étiquette, à Serpeddi. Une inconnue des murs blancs, beiges, jaunes, l’intérieur il y a la Sardaigne ») subsiste : la route est-elle ocres, orangés, rouge sang. On est bien là pour témoigner goudronnée en totalité ? Arrivé y voit beaucoup de terrasses d’une importante industrie liée en vélo à Quartu S’Elena et aménagées et des coupoles à la présence des ovins. après plusieurs erreurs et vertes ou brunes et le bleu hésitations, je demande mon violet des jacarandas bordant Quant aux secondes, je ne chemin à deux autochtones qui des avenues. La couleur claire connais pas leur nombre, mais me disent clairement qu’un domine, mais les éclats du tous les jours j’ai pu en vélo de route (équipé de pneus bijou sont parfois ternes. apercevoir au moins une sur le 23) ne passe pas. Ils Notre voyage se poursuit par la goudron surchauffé. Elles sont m’indiquent une autre voie, côte ouest. Il fait de plus en noires (ou vertes et jaunes), tout en émettant un doute sur plus chaud (jusqu’à 40° en ce longues d’un mètre environ, l’accès final !! C’est donc par début juin). Plus de BIGs à avec de petites têtes discrètes et l’est que je repars (voir la note monter, quelques cols encore souvent redressées. Si elles que j’ai ajoutée sur le site). sur des routes bordées de finissent par se ranger c’est Hélas, le final est bien muletier. lauriers roses et blancs ou avec une nonchalance, un Demi-tour vers le camping, d’autres qui surplombent une calme dignes des sardes. pose de pneus de 32 et retour mer à faire rêver. sur les lieux pour en terminer Même si la chaleur est avec ces 7 km de piste en plus N’allez pas imaginer que tout devenue au fil des jours de est merveilleux sur l’île : il faut moins en moins supportable, ce mentionner l’existence des voyage, effectué certes en grands camps militaires de basse saison, nous laisse de l’OTAN et des déchets belles images. toxiques entreposés dans certaines vallées (voir par

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BIG Summary Italy been airlifted to this point for long. Up to this point the road Kevin SPEED his own safety from Italians was in open country but for the who had now joined the Allies next few kilometres it was in Day 11 Friday 10th August and was here for a few weeks the shelter of trees, but it didn’t 2012 before being flown to rain again the remainder of the Gran Sasso d’Italia BIG 778 Germany. The Italians don’t day. and return 62km, 5 hour. make much of this fact up here At la Maieletta there is another This was a highlight of my tour though. There’s no memorial large car park for ski-sport. and a pass that I knew would plaques or monuments, not From here the road continues in take me the best part of the surprising. At 14.00 I made my loops, first past a large red day. I finished off breakfast way back down the pass to the building that at first I thought rolls 10km on where there are picnic benches and tables After Fonte Cerretto the road dips a bit into a valley then up again after a bend to the left, a curve to the right then on to the road junction and the first sight of the buildings on the top of the Gran Sasso. This was still 10km further. I was overtaken by a group of fast Italian cyclists who told me that the way to the top might be too steep. I may look old and decrepit but there’s plenty of energy in me yet! They also told me there was a storm looming over the mountain ahead but what the heck, like Everest glazing you only fit car in an hour then drove back was the top but a long way to this once. I wasn’t coming back to Paganica and took the Popoli go yet. Then there are a series again, it was now or never. As road through Barisciano, of TV/radio masts and a gentle it turned out the storm passed Navelli, Cani to Popoli. I could humming of the power supply over, there was just light rain see why the main road strikes in the wind. From this point for a while. I needed air in my north at Navelli as there is later there is a low wooden fence on tyres and asked a Swedish a long and twisty downhill to the left the rest of the way then couple on bikes going the other Popoli on the minor road past a barrier to stop traffic from way as I’d left my pump in the Cani but at Cani itself was a going further. The road is now car. He asked me where I was good place to take a photo of a on a ridge with views across from and pumped my tyres up, long straight avenue of trees both sides. To the left (east) is so kind. They told me they either side of the road and a the Adriatic coast south of were cycling in Italy for five lone chapel in a field to the Pescara, very clearly defined weeks – can’t beat that! The right. In Popoli I drove the with many miles of coast in final part of the climb was a main road north-east to Scafa view. I reached a small turning series of hairpins among the then a minor road to the south- point for cars then a paved path rocks but wasn’t as steep as east for the second pass of the only that goes further along the warned. On reaching 2130 day in the late afternoon. I ridge to a small shrine on a metres at the top I was at the parked the car at Roccamorice rocky outcrop. After the usual highest point of my tour – it’s and cycled 25km (15 miles) photos it was time to go back all downhill from here. There through Civita to Blockhaus down the mountain and was a barbecue up here and della Maiella BIG 786 and freewheeled all the way back to much drinking of Peroni but I return, 22km, 2 ½ hours. the car couldn’t if I wanted to get There was some rain again down again. I walked into the when I reached the road Day 16 Wednesday 15th restaurant and an information junction 7km from the top of August 2012 area where I found out that the pass at a ski resort. I put on I would never be able to cycle during the war Mussolini had my rainwear but it didn’t last Vesuvius today. I found

66 BIG Review 2013 somewhere to stay, or so I I could see that it would have climbing there were not too thought. I was made very been impossible to find this many tourist buses passing so welcome by a pretty Italian girl place as there were so many had the road almost to myself invited in and was told my turnings for the 10km or so which was fantastic. There’s a room was ready and would I leading to the hotel on the turning off to the left further up like a drink. This was too waterfront. the car was safely for a panoramic viewpoint. I friendly! I soon found out they locked away behind a five took this for a 3km diversion were expecting an Englishman metre high electric fence and but I could see just as well but not me. When I explained I gates and I was finally in a from the top of the road later. I had a bike in the car and was room in the Hotel Casa Rossa, was surprised to see so many cycling in areas she apologised Via Mortelle for €60 at 01.30, cars and coaches up there. but directed me to a friend’s really tired after an eventful Some had passed me of course house. Arriving there, there and stressful day. but didn’t expect that many. was a room and then I received a call on this lady’s mobile offering me a room at the first port of call and that there had been an error so I drove back again, 2km. back at the first place she was as confused as I was – there had been no such telephone conversation and she rang her boss to see who had called me at the second accommodation. There was no one. This was very confusing. It was now getting dark and I needed to find somewhere quick. I tried another hotel on the lower slopes above Ercalano and nearly got stuck in the narrow approach in total darkness. I did a tight three- point-turn as I didn’t find the Maybe many came up from hotel – wrong track! So headed Day 17 Thursday 16th Ercalano. Ruth and I once back for Torre del Greco and August 2012 walked all the way down the parked up just above the town Car left at the hotel on the volcano a few years ago and opposite a very large pizzeria waterfront in Torre del Greco down to Ercalano and back to restaurant just outside the town, and cycled to the top of the Sorrento on the train as we La Roccia al Vesuvio, and road at Vesuvio BIG 794 and were staying there. On the way intended eating here then return 3.5 hours. Directions: we saw many pot holed rocks sleeping in the car here for Start in Torre del Greco, along that were lava. I was reminded night and climbing Vesuvius in road Comune di Torre del of this when I saw so many of the morning. The car parking Greco, Viale Castelluccio them again on the way up now. attendant who also guarded the becomes Via Vittoria Veneto The whole landscape is other- parked cars for the restaurant then Via Gugliemomarconi, wordly, especially alongside told me it would be too under autostrada becomes Via the higher part of the road dangerous to do this – I could Enrico de Nicola then right where whole areas are dust end up with damage to the car. fork to Via Vesuvio, Via bowls of lava fields. When I He asked me to park in his area Osservatorio, Contrada reached the top I was aware of if I was eating then move on Osservatario. 24km return. On being stared at by many for my own safety as the the way up I passed the bemused tourists but I knew restaurant closed at 02.00. I restaurant where I ate the that I had by far the greater explained my predicament and previous night then later the experience having cycled here he found me a hotel in Torre Rotunda restaurant and reached rather than sitting in a steamy del Greco. A girl assistant the rotunda cylindrical stone coach with other sweaty would drive up to the restaurant where the road from Ercalano bodies. I had only my own to meet me and I would follow joins then the real climb sweaty body to contend with! I her back to the hotel. This was begins. I was attempting this locked the bike up at the well beyond the call of duty but early in the day at 09.00 and footpath entrance to the reached there at midday. While mountain and had a look round

67 BIG Review 2013 the stalls surrounding the dusty left to Secondo Tronco Via it was the Italian name for car/coach park. I bought a lava Reggio Campi to Terreti , Manchester! They invited me magnet for Ruth and had a Straonni, SS183. Take a right into the tent for spaghetti and celebrity beer from a stall. off this later to the top. 104km wine. Very kind I thought but I Back to the gate I took a few return. Leaving the car at the had to be on my way but they photos and heard a girl say to hotel I cycled north inland at insisted. I accepted their her boyfriend in English, 08.00 after a good breakfast. generous offer and saw it as a “Crazy these Italians cycling The route up to Bagaladi is a celebration of reaching my up here” So I asked her to take bit untidy but not too steep and grande finale! From there it my photo with my bike and reached there at 10.00. The took me a couple of hours to told her to be careful as not streets have evidence of a get off the mountain as quickly everybody up here is Italian. I poorer existence but soon all as possible and return to Melito didn’t go through the gate for this was left behind in a series because I had to come back the walkway to the top as of hairpins to the upper valley. over with the car and wanted to we’ve been before in recent The view down from Mont reach the top before dark. I years and was quite happy to Sant Angelo is worth the climb. achieved it – just. Down the slowly bike back down and It took me a further 3 hours to other side through Sant take in the views. I collected reach the road junction over the Eufemia on the shorter route some pieces of lava from a Valico Pass for the climb to and to the coast at Bagnara it couple of lava fields, virgin Monte Alto Cocuzza but the was now dark. I decided to see stuff as the coach parties don’t remaining 18km were easy in how far north I could drive stop here. They now have pride comparison. It was a relief to before I became too tired. I of place at home. From here see the road on the left coming didn’t go for a hotel but slept in back down to Torre del Greco up from Reggio Calabria so the car much further north. I and the car. knew I was very near to my should have taken the turn off to the mountain. I had autostrada because I had more Day 22 Tuesday 21st August climbed over 1300 metres from confusion at Melito late in the 2012 the coast and there remained evening. Traffic was being From Melito di Porto Salvo to 600 metres from the road diverted around the back streets Monte Alto Cocuzza BIG 810 junction where there were because there was a carnival and return is 136km (85 miles) many parked cars. There were happening along the main and took 9 ½ hours to achieve. many cyclists along the upper street. I followed other cars and It was a crowning glory of the route having left their cars at passed along small roads Italian climbs and because of the junction. Also here are through San Giovanni and distance the only climb of the horses and carts for Francica. I saw an indication day. It’s further than the BIG transporting people along this near here for the autostrada so route to the top by an stretch of road. In a bit less took it. I’m not certain where I additional 32km, the BIG route than 2 hours I reached the top joined this but may have been description being: from Reggio of the pass. The lower section at Serre. From there I stayed on Calabria at the Lido, is a continuous climb but the the autostrada and went north roundabout to the left, take last few kilometres are ups and hell for leather to see how far third turn off Via Saverio downs. It’s an inglorious end at north I could get before Voclara, left on to Via Treviso, a group of tents to the left reigning in for the night. I kept take second left on to Via where it’s possible to buy going until I reached Cappuccinelli, left on to Via drinks and burgers. I bought a Lagonegro just inland from Salita Cappuccinelli (start) then celebration Peroni beer and Sapri at about 02.00. Via Borgo Larizza, right then asked if one would take my thoroughly exhausted and not photo in front of the daring to go further in case I wooden name board get sleepy and lose of the pass on the concentration I found a lay-by other side of the that was away from the road. He obliged and autostrada and the noise and asked me where I where I could kip down for the was from – di dove night. Reggio Calabria to sei. I said to him Naples is 300 miles and I was Manchester and he near enough halfway and no replied “ah, more cycling I would be your Mancini!” being average tourist tomorrow for completely ignorant one day. of football I thought

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HET BEEST GETEMD: een woensdag in juli tussen OVARO en SUTRIO. voorlopig zonder erg. De eerste vol respect hoe de Italianen Dirk VISSERS winkels openen hun deuren Wouter Weylandt herdenken . terwijl we ons klaarmaken, OVARO, Italië, woensdag 25 fietsmakker Maarten is er ook De brede vallei van de S355 juli 2012. De klok op het witte bij . Alles mee ? Een tocht van brengt ons snel in Ovaro . De kerkje van dit Italiaanse dorp iets meer dan 80km en 2400 hartslag en adrenaline gaat wijst 11u45 aan. Voor mij is hoogtemeters wacht op ons. Ik plotsklaps de hoogte in. Hier het vijf voor twaalf. Ik pieker verkies zonder zonnebril te moet het zijn ! Vrij snel staat er al een half jaar over, hoe rijden wat uitzonderlijk is. De daar links aangegeven : "Monte moet ik in godsnaam de Monte vele tunnels en galerijen die op Zoncolan". We stoppen even Zoncolan overleven zonder af ons wachten is daar de reden om dit bord op de gevoelige te stappen? Nu ik een andere voor. We dalen af en duiken plaat vast te leggen en Maarten fiets heb (zonder triple) maar Italië binnen richting Paluzza. besluit gedurende de klim aan wel met een bergverzet van Na 16km bereiken we de vallei mijn zijde te blijven en foto's te 34/28 , nog altijd groter dan en in Cercivento rijden we nemen , we zijn er klaar voor !! een mountainbike versnelling, richting Ravascletto. De weg Vrij snel gaat de meter boven hoe ….? stijgt, eerst geleidelijk, later tot de 10% , nu al ? Even later 12% . Een stevige passeren we het witte kerkje Woensdag 25 juli 2012, 8u20: overgangscol dus. Boven zien van Ovaro en komen we in Sillian- Oost Tirol. De fietsen we de wegwijzer naar de Liariis waar de beroemde bocht worden op de wagen geladen. Monte Crostis. Vorig jaar in de naar rechts de klim verder Via het kleine Lesachtal is het Giro d'Italia schrapte de aangeeft. Hier is het 500 meter eventjes rijden naar de top van organisatie deze col uit de rit , vlak wanneer we het dorp de Plockenpas, een vanwege te gevaarlijke afdaling doorrijden. Even later begint de overgangsberg tussen .... na de dood van Wouter "Strade de Monte Zoncolan", Oostenrijk en Italië van slechts Weylandt een week daarvoor. nog 8,5km ! Vanaf nu is het 1360 meter hoogte. De weg De afdaling die wij nu menens, steeds trappend op de 34/28 en doseren is de boodschap. De snelheid daalt tussen de 6 en 8km/u, de percentagemeter gaat niet meer onder de 13% . In elke bocht wordt een bekende Giro winnaar in de picture gezet, mooi ! Bartali, Coppi, Gimondi, Merckx , Hinault, Indurain ......

De eerste echte supersteile strook van bijna 20% overleven we wonderwel. Met afwisseling komen we uit het zadel en dat gaat goed. Het voorwiel "danst" alleen maar als we het stuur in het midden vastnemen, een "Sagannetje" doe je best niet op deze klim! De grootste kunst bestaat erin draait en keert , straks toch voorgeschoteld krijgen richting de fiets onder controle te maar terugkeren via Lienz en Val Pesarina is gelukkig breed houden. Een zeer goeie de B100? Een laatste lange en lekker snel. Maarten is zoals conditie is een tweede vereiste tunnel kondigt de top aan van steeds eerst beneden en wacht om boven te geraken , we het vertrekpunt. Boven op de me op bij een muur waar de weten het zeker: dit is niet voor iedereen weggelegd ! De klim Plockenpas lijkt het wel vorig jaar gestorven wielrenner stijgt letterlijk de hemel in , een uitgestorven op deze bewolkte wordt geëerd met een opschrift. tweede zeer steil stuk kondigt doch droge juli dag. De Het is tegelijk ontroerend en regenwolken dreigen, zich aan tussen machtige

69 BIG Review 2013 rotsformaties, we hijsen ons omhoog en daar staat Pantani strategisch op het volgende bord. Even later is het ergste voorbij en rijden we door drie smalle (en bijna vlakke , 6%) onverlichte tunnels. De finale ziet er opnieuw zwaar uit en slingert via schitterende bochten door de Alpenweiden. Ineens is daar de top, Maarten is even versneld en staat klaar voor de actiefoto . We've made it ! Een klein vreugdekreetje mag er best wel af.

De top is een echte pas, want na enkele meters gaat het ook weer bergaf. Er is niets te zien, zwaar, maar dat maakt het ook makkie . De laatste kilometers enkel een monument dat de uitzonderlijk mooi . zijn mooi in bochten omhoog. pashoogte aangeeft. Hoe kan Boven drinken we nog iets en een Giro karavaan hier Afdalen doen we richting stappen dan de wagen in , op arriveren, vraag ik me af ? Sutrio, de eerste kilometers erg naar de verdiende taart en Uitgebreid nemen we even de steil, later breed en koffie in ons hotel ! tijd om onze prestatie met overzichtelijk. Via de brede enkele mensen te delen via de vallei vatten we de Plockenpas gsm en eet ik mijn pistoleetjes aan, mijn 98ste BIG op . Zalig ! Ik droom al snel beklimming. Niet meer dan 6% van een tweede beklimming stijgt deze doorgangscol, een binnen enkele jaren. Het was

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My 16th BIG.

Michal FULKA

The Godfather No. 88 [email protected]

I'm a BIG member with the number 2889, suggesting that I'm among the lovers of riding on the BIG´s came pretty late (2010). I don't have a lot of time on account of the performance of the duties and, therefore, my performances to match .... but when I find a bit of time, so I will deliver for a climbing the top, even by himself. So it was in one's rainy day - 27.9.2012. I wanted to have a celebration of the Czech tourist Club on the occasion of the 80. the me (too bad). That's why I have rain. Not me or who take a Cottage of Girová in the Czech it made up for at least the picture. I had to close down my Republic, in the nears three- following. bike several feet in front of me, borders (Czech-Poland- and I placed it round the Slovakia), which is not far The car I have exported to camera. Therefore, I am in the from the Polish BIG top Ustroň and then on bike photo without the bike. Przelencz Salmopolska (828). through the Wisla and Malinka Downhill down the Wisla I go to the Bialy Krzyž. The whole slowly, because of the rain. I wanted to take this BIG as way it was raining, but the part of meeting BIG Tatras, to drive to me well and I don´t I look forward to more BIG´s. which I also signed up for sweat. 2012, but my illness and subsequent operation of the At the top was not even a live heart in June it would not let soul, all are buried from the

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Tatras 2012

François CANDAU

The annual meeting happened in 2012 in Czech Republic, Slovakia and Poland. The annual meeting found our group in Vrchlabi, Praded (CZ) and Habovka (SK). The bigs climbed were : 836.Vrbatova Bouda - 827. Przel'ecz Okraj - 837. Spindlerova Bouda - 838. Sùchy Vrch - 839. Cevernohorske Sedlo- 840. Pradíd - 826.Przehyba - 843. Tatliakovo Jazero - 844. Sedlo Certovica - 828.Przel'ecz Salmopolska - 829. Przel'ecz Krowiarki - 830. Glodowka - 845. Slieszky Dom - 846. Martinske Hole.

An excellent summary showing the special atmosphere, convivial but a little separated and dispatched into small groups due to the distances between the different bigs, is just written afterwards in french language by François Candau.

Report of the official BIG Meeting in Tatras (July 2012)

You wonder how the BIG Meeting was ? Every day reminded me this cartoon from Hanna Barbara that I loved when I was a kid. It is called Wacky Races (Les fous du volant in French).

Often leading the race were the evil François CANDAU and Bernard FROGNEUX, writing some messages on the asphalt, on friends’ car or making some sneaky tricks with shoes. But they were also useful because their blue car ahead of the race always indicated the foot of the first BIG of the day.

Just behind those two usually arrived either the NOTTEN brothers as shown opposite, either Mrs and Mr Marc SEGUY, a brilliant newcomer in the BIG meetings. Jürgen RECKAUS was also in that part of the race.

We were not surprised to see then the arrival of Win VAN ELS in his red VW Van. We called him “le régional de l’étape” as

he had already climbed all those BIGs and just came for pleasure of sharing the meeting with us and gave his advices.

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In the leading group were also Roland SCHUYER and Steven PRANGER. Those two were also often the first ones back to the hotel for the evening Pivo (beer in CZ or SK).

In the middle of the pack, some others typical characters :

Xavier RUTTEN and Luc WILLEM ready to attack any percentages for a beer at the Gasthaus on the top.

Achim JOHN and Dieter POHL, the German team.

Heiko LINNERT and Vaclav KLICNIK, a very speedy team in the climbs

We also had some unusual competitors :

The very charming Julie (Rastislav SASIK’s wife) in charge of the photo report,

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the talkative Axel JANSEN always proposing a long tour around the BIGs

and the incredible Professor Dirk BUSCHMANN (Anja’s partner) studying butterflies and flowers around while pedalling hard.

In the race also : Gianni SOLENNI, Jean Luc MATTE and Luigi SPINA both very efficient with their camping car (sorry no more pictures left)

At last, at the end of the caravan was the black hired rescue car of Al Daniel GOBERT and his gang (Kevin SPEED, Pavel VANIS, Jerry NILSON, Fredrik GRANLUND).

The following day was just another episode of the serie, with different roads, different BIGs, different adventures but the same happy mess.

“A B.I.G meeting is the lonely place where the fools of the world have the right to meet themselves without being purchased by the police”. Daniel Gobert.

François CANDAU

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Meeting 2012 in the Czech Republic, Poland and Slovakia split because we all wanted to Riesengebirge) naer the Polish Roland SCHUYER do another climb. Weather was border. After registration in the the Netherlands changing rapidly and just after hotel we went by car to the start of the Fichtelberg Svoboda nad Upou (415 m); Monday, July 2 climb, rain came pouring down foot of Przelecz Okraj (= Okraj To me this Meeting started in and even thunder and lightning. Pass). In a heavy thunderstorm my home village Dwingeloo in I climbed the west side of ("I've never been so the north-east of the Fichtelberg over a beautiful demotivated to start a BIG" Netherlands. This day I drove road through the forest François said) we've climbed 800 kilometers to the (Tellerhäuserweg), but the the 17 kilometers to Przelecz Erzgebirge in former East summit was less interesting; a Okraj (1046 m). Not at all a Germany, just south of kind of ski resort Because of difficult climb and the top was Chemnitz.. Although the two the inferno at the top it became situated in Poland. By doing Germanies formed one country too dangerous and I decided to this the first official climb of many years ago, there are clear descent quickly and go to my the Meeting became a fact! We differences. For example; the hotel near Schwarzenberg. all were satisfied but very, very roads are more narrow and wet. windy and much steeper. The Tuesday, July 3 In the hotel many members had Erzgebirge looks a bit like Next morning I received a text already arrived and old Sauerland with agriculture and message of François; he and friendships could be renewed forests, but the mountains are Bernard were planning to climb and new ones made. Here I met way higher and steeper. Due to Winterbergstrasse and after that my roommate for the days to the eastern location it also will one of the first 3 climbs of the come: Steven. It always gives a be colder during winter. You Meeting. That was alos my great feeling to see how easy also find some interesting plan, so some hours later we all the different nationalities mix: names of cities like met at the parking in Schmilka language is no barrier at all. Johanngeorgenstadt and (131 m) along the river Elbe, in For an outsider it can be hard to Annaberg-Buchenholz. On my an area called Saksischer believe that people from the to-do list were Auersberg Schweiz. Together we climbed Czech Republic, Slovakia, (1018 m) and Fichtelberg the, partially unpaved, England, Sweden, Germany, (1214 m). Auersberg is not an Winterbergstrasse (556 m) of Belgium, France, Italy and the exceptional climb, only the last which the road regularly came Netherlands are able to find a few kilometers are demanding close to the Czech border. way to communicate. The (up to 14%). While I was After descending this mountain atmosphere was good taking a rest on top (ofcourse we crossed the Czech border immediately and stayed that this mountain has a tower), I and it was directly clar to me way during the Meeting. saw 2 cyclists coming up. I that this was a country with a recognized them both: Bernard different language. Or Wednesday, July 4 Frogneux (B) and François navigation systems helped us to This first day of the Meeting Candau (F). After a short get in time to the hotel in had 3 climbs on the menu: meeting (it was 16.45 hour) we Vrchlabi Krkonoše or Vrbatova Bouda, Spindlerova

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Bouda and Przelecz Okraj. For friend Mauro Repetti. For the the top of Suchy Vrch, François, Bernard and me it occasion I wore the Maglia ornamented with a huge tower, were only 2 because we already Rosa ('Pink Jersey') he gave me was a party going on and climbed the Przelecz Okraj. All in 2010: it’s a special gift because of that, this was the climbs were situated in the because I received this jersey a most cozy summit of this Krkonose National Park at the few hours before my father Meeting. border of the Czech Republic died. At the top a young Czech The next climb of the day was and Poland. First climb of the guy took some pictures of me the Cervenohorske Sedlo (1013 day was the Vrbatova Bouda and I went downhill soon. The m). Temperature had risen to (Bouda = cabin or hut). From last 10 kilometers of the about 30 degrees and for a Vichova nad Jizerou (406 m) downhill were very wet, but Dutchman that's quiet hot. In the climb was 22 kilometers afterwards my bike could dry Loucna nad Desnou (515 m) long of which the first 14 in the garage and I could enjoy Steven Pranger and I had kilometers had a gradient a hot shower (followed by at lunch; local goulash soup, between 2 and 4%. The last 10 least 2 beers: for each BIG one bread and Cola. With sign were of a different kind and beer). language and the help of a local took a lot more effort to who spoke some English and overcome; the average gradient Thursday, July 5 German, we could order this was somewhere around 8%. Besides 3 BIGs there were also meal and to be honest: it tasted But the pavement was terrible a lot of kilometers by car at the great. After lunch we started with lots of potholes and program. We left Krkonose the 10 kilometer of a not too gravel. Unfortunatetly at the National Park and headed difficult climb with good summit (1395 m) it was cold about 200 kilometers pavement. The temperature and we couldn't really enjoy southeastern to the Jeseniky was killing and the goulash the views caused by fog. A region in northeast soup wasn't helping either. I snack, a drink, some pictures Moravskosleszky. The first was glad when I reached the and going downhill to a climb was Suchy Vrch (977 m) top, but the day wasn't over yet. warmer environment. Despite a fromt Cervena Voda (538 m). The last climb, Praded (1492 flat tire downhill went fine. In Despite the altitude of this m), was still waiting for us. the afternoon I've climbed mountain is moderate, it was The starting point was in Spindlerova Bouda alone (most towering over the landscape Karlovice (493 m) and from of the others were climbing the and you can see it from far there it was a 25 kilometer Okraj). The first 10 kilometers away. Luckily it now was climb to the top. The from the hotel (540 m) till sunny and about 25 degrees. landscape, during the first 14 Spindlerov Mlyn, were easy. This climb was 11 kilometers kilometer, was beautiful: farms, Spindlerov Mlyn was busy of long and the gradient was small rivers with people tourists and this little town is somewhere between 4 and 7%. bathing in them, cattle and well-known because of Franz For a cyclist with my physique forests. The gradient till Kafka (here he wrote in 1926 (1.86 m tall and en 90 kg Karlova Studanka (788 m) his, unfinished, novel ‘Das weight) gradients like these are wasn't too bad (2 to 6%). In Schloss’), mining and forestry good to be climbed. To me it's Karlova Studanka that friendly and the source of the river Elbe like American Peter Clifford gradient changed to 10 and (in Czech: Pramen Labe) is wrote in de U.I.C. Bolletino nr 12% and the pavement nearby. The route went right 10: "I have a body more suited consisted of cobbles. The last 9 through the crowded center of to playing American Football kilometer the gradient was this town, but once outside the than for road cycling". For about 7 to 8% (average) and town it was nice and quiet. cyclists with our physique the landscape changed quickly Nature was overwhelming: fast cycling gradients over 8% are a from green meadows and cows flowing rivers, vast forests and major task: gravity is pulling to rocky mountains with rugged mountains. The heavily on our bodies and our abysses and enormous views. pavement was very good, muscle power cannot Just below the bare summit maybe due to the modern ski compensate that fully. From the (also having a huge tower) the resort at summit. From start to just before the top I've gradient was shortly 15%. At Spindlerov Mlyn to the top (at climbed together with Wim van the summit it was very windy 1238 m) it was a 10 kilometer Els (with 712 BIGs Wim is the and far more cold than at lower climb and this time with lots of best ranked Dutchman in the altitudes, but that was great views. This climb was Challenge). Wim is a compensated by the great also a milestone to me: my 'flyweight' cyclist and loves views around. It was great to sit 200th BIG! I've climbed this steep climbs. De Suchy Vrch down and enjoy the vastness of BIG in honor of my good wasn't steep enough to him. At the area; for somebody from

76 BIG Review 2013 the flat country of the Reckhaus (D). We decided to encountered a lot of colleagues Netherlands this was an drive to Vrutky (SK) and to on their way to the top like exceptional experience. have lunch there before starting Daniel Gobert, Luigi Spina, The hotel was a typical modern the climb to Martinske Gianni Solenni, Jean-Luc ski hotel (Sporthotel Kurzovni Hole/Krizava. In a hardrock Matte, Ratislav Sasik, Kevin at 1330 m, just below the cafe in Vrutky (394 m) we had Speed, Luc Willem, Xavier summit of Praded), and had all a great lunch (Ratislav had a Rutten, Jerry Nilsson. At the the luxury you could imagine. huge pile of grilled chicken foot Julie was waiting for her Our bikes had a nice place wings to be eaten; were these friend Ratislav and we told her behind the Reception. Diner wings his secret for climbing so that we met him just before the and some Czech beer (500 cc good?), but we had to be top, so that he was getting each) tasted well (to all of us). modest because of the climb to downhill at that very moment During the night we were come; the famous Martinske and be with her in a matter of treated to a beautiful spectacle; Hole/Krizava (1460 m). This 30 minutes. lightning over the mountains of climb is situated in a mountain From Vrutky to the hotel in the Jeseniky region. Together range, west of the Tatras, called Habovka (Julianin Dvor) was with our roommates for that the Mala Fatra (= small Fatra). an 80 kilometer drive. It was a night, brothers Jean-Pierre and The outside temperature had very tasteful hotel, slightly with Peter Notten, we enjoyed this risen to 35 degrees and de 15 a classic touch, with spacious show. kilometer long climb was steep. and airy rooms and a good The first kilometers the restaurant. Because it was Friday, July 6 pavement wasn't too bad; some friday so during diner we were The weather was lovely: sunny gravel but no potholes. But, treated t a local music group and clear skies. Breakfast was nearer to the top it became dressed in costumes. We early because we had a trip to worse and worse. After 5 couldn't understand the songs Poland ahead. From Praded to kilometers of struggling we because of the foreign language Wisla (Pl) it was a 170 encountered Wim van Els who but we couldn't hear each other kilometer trip through a was descending already and, as either; the music was very loud beautiful hilly landscape and always, he spoke some so conversation was out of the through Eastern European encouraging words: "It's only question. The last colleagues cities as the university town of 10 kilometers to the top!" And arrived at 21.00 hours; tired Opava or the industrial city of with a big smile he continued and with sunburned faces. Anja Ostrava (the third largest city his downhill. Beyond von Heydebreck (D) and Dirk of the Czech Republic). At the Martinske Hole to the top it Buschmann (D) didn't get to entrance of Poland it became was terrible. A difficult the hotel by car, but they clear to me that the Polish combination of bad pavement travelled from Vrchlabi (CZ) to language differs a lot from the and a steep gradient (12% and Martin (SK) by night train. Czech language: the writing more). Because of the low They climbed Martinske and sound are different. The ascending speed and I became Hole/Krizava and came by cars were parked near the sick (a pity of the nice lunch) bicycle to Habovka. A very famous ski jump of Wisla (507 the climb took me about 2 good achievement, chapeau! m) in the Beskid Slaski area. hours. The views at the top Even during summer this ski were breathtaking: in the Saturday, July 7. jump is used for practice and foreground the valley with The Saturday had 3 climbs on competition. Departing from Vrutky and Martin and in the the program, but not all of us Wisla it was a 15 kilometer background the peaks of the really climbed those 3 BIGs. climb to the top of Przelecz Tatras (Tatry). Going downhill There was a group with Salmopolska (934 m); the first was strenuous because of the amongst others Wim, Anja, climb of the Meeting which continuous hard braking. We Dirk, Axel Jansen (B) who was totally situated in Poland. made a tour starting in Again it was scorching hot, Habovka and containing 2 that means well over 30 BIGs. The Notten brothers degrees. Because of an did, with a very tight planning, intestinal problem and the 5 climbs. Steven and I did 2, high temperatures to me the the third one was Przehyba climb wasn't easy at all. At (PL) and was to far away so it the top Steven and I had a took to many hours by car. drink with Ratislav Sasik Also this climb was for a (SK), his friend Julie (from larger part not paved and we Argentina) and Juergen didn't like that. We started the

77 BIG Review 2013 day with the climb op Przelecz made room for us to pass them Polianka (994 m) and this Krowiarki (1018 m) in Poland. without any problems. This climb was pretty steep, but A nice and not too heavy climb climb ended near a refuge great because of the rugged (max 8%) and 8 kilometers annex a restaurant (Tatliakova environment. With ‘steep’ I long. The starting point was at chata), where we, like many mean averages of 9,7% 12,1% 700 m in Zubrzyva Gorna (PL). Slovakians, took a rest and 12,1% 8,1% and 11,2%. The The road was crowded with some time to eat and drink. The pavement was sometimes very BIG cyclists and that makes views on the surrounding poor but our speed was slow so cycling a lot more sociable. Of mountain ranges were we had plenty of time to evade course it was Jean Luc Matte phenomenal. The lake (Jazero) potholes. On the top there was (B) who was strategically we didn’t visit. Going downhill an uninspiring hotel, but far posted with his camera to take was great: a more or less more interesting were the the kind of pictures for which straight road wit a smooth waterfall and the lake in a he's known; great action shots. surface and a high gradient scenery of storm clouds and After lunch the second climb of gave us a dazzling speed. I mountains. The views to the the day was Taliakova Jazero even reached the 90 km/h mark south were almost even (1375 m). The starting point (an advantage of being heavy impressive and you could see was at the parking of our hotel and as a motorcyclist I’m used for about 100 kilometers in the in Habovka (710 m) and we to high speeds) direction of Hungary. Because headed in the direction of We returned in our hotel just it was chilly and thunder clouds Zuberec for a 17 kilometer before diner time. Some of the gathered over our heads, we climb. A very nice road mainly members arrived at 21.30 hour; started the decent soon. During through a pinewood and with a they had a really long day with downhill we met a lot of gradient somewhere between 2 more climbs and kilometers by members. We nodded our and 6% and to be honest; it was car. heads to greet them, no waving more often 2 to 3% than 6%. this time because we needed Just before the village of Sunday, July 8 both our hands on the Zverovka (1029 m), just after The official last day of the handlebar and brakes. The the bridge, we turned to the Meeting had arrived with 3 really last climb of this right (south). About 1 climbs to do; 1 in Poland and 2 Meeting was Certovica Sedlo kilometer the gradient was in Slovakia. First climb of the (1238 m) with the start in the gradually, but for the last 3½ day was Glowdowska near village of Kral’ova Lehota (657 kilometers the road became Zakopane (PL). It was Sunday m). This climb was situated in very steep with averages over so lots of Polish people went to the region called the Small 10 and 11% and a maximum of church and the building style of Tatras (Nizke Tatry), but over 14%. The pavement was the churches (and houses) was despite it’s called small, the super and the numerous hikers very distinct for this region (JL highest peak is 2048 m of Matte took a great picture altitude (I don’t call that small). showing the style). From This climb also had long start Poronin (735 m), just east of with many kilometers (about 9) Zakopane, to Glowdowska of a low gradient between 1 (1145 m) wasn’t the most and 4% .Only the last 8 difficult climb, but still 11 kilometers were between 5 and kilometer long. The views on 8%. This mountain range had the Tatras were really broad valleys and was more impressive but unfortunately it open than the (High) Tatras. At was difficult to capture it in a 16.00 hours a group of photo. Nice detail: 1 week Hungarians, lead by Gabor after our visit to Glodowska of Kreisci, arrived at the mountain the 6th stage of the Tour de pass: they cycled all the way Pologne (Tour of Poland or from Hungary (the city of Wyścig Dookoła Polski). In Salgotarjan) to meet BIG fact the finish was in Bukowina members and contribute to the Tatrazanska some kilometers meeting. A ride of 165 below the top. After this climb kilometer, with 4 mountain we left Poland for the last time, passes and 2677 hm. Super job to continue in Slovakia for the of those guys (György last 2 climbs. Sliesky Dom Domonkos, György Kiss, (1670 m) was the next one. Gabor Vince and Gabor Starting point was in Tatranska Kreisci) and it is so good to see

78 BIG Review 2013 this major effort of them just to around. In total it was a 49 (17%) again. A suggestion: the meet fellow BIG members. kilometer trip. After a day of refuge is a better place to be Great! travelling 750 kilometer by car than the radar stations. After a Downhill went in high speed at and 49 kilometer by bike, fast downhill I reached my car 52*12 and the moment we dinner tasted great and I slept and at that moment cycling arrived near the car, the climbs like a baby mountains was over for this of this Meeting were behind us. year. Near the car I changed Steven and I talked about the Tuesday, July 10 my clothes, drank and ate result, took something to drink Breakfast was abundant (like something to be ready for the and eat and headed to the hotel always in Germany) but I 880 kilometer through (one hour drive). In Habovka it didn’t eat too much because I Germany to the Netherlands. was cleaning the bikes, taking a had to climb Schwarzriegel Late in the afternoon I crossed shower, and start packing. In (1078 m). Weather was great: the Dutch border and the the dusk we had a great dinner about 12 degrees at the start temperature dropped and did a lot of chatting with (but raising to 25 degrees) and dramatically and in my home our friends. sunny. Starting in Furth im village (Dwingeloo, 10 m) it Wald (394 m) the first part was 13 degrees; 22 degrees Monday, July 9 (about 10 km) wasn’t lower than in Slovakia. After saying good bye to the interesting at all (we better skip fellow cyclists I headed for that part from our website). Finally Germany; Bayerischer Just before the small village of It was a really great experience Eisenstein (D). Along a B-road Rimbach there was the turn off to cycle mountains in the I travelled to Zilina (where I from S2140/S2161 southward Czech Republic, Poland and could have a last glimpse of to Schwarzriegel. The character Slovakia. These 3 countries and Martinske Hole) and from there of the climb changed their people made a good to the Czech border. In the immediately and was far more impression on me. Despite the Czech Republic I followed the interesting. Soon the gradient language barrier travelling was route to Olomouc, Brno, was 10% followed by a couple easy: the main roads are very Prague (Praha) and Pilsen of hundred meters of 18% with good, people are polite and (Plzen). About 16.00 hours I a maximum of just over 19%. helpful, it’s clean and tidy and entered Germany. Shortly after After that steep part the road prizes are very moderate. Last check in in my hotel in Lam smoothened for some but not least: the nature is (525 m) I was already on my kilometers. But, don’t be wonderful and imposing. I bike cycling the Grosser Arber fooled by that easy part; just recommend this area warmly to (with 1131 meter altitude the below the top it became steep all mountain cyclists. highest peak of the Lots of gratitude to my Bayerischer Eisenstein). A friends of the Meeting beautiful, but irregular, (and forever): Fredrik climb; the first part, till Granlund, Jerry Nilson, Lohberghuette (589 m), Francois Candau, Bernard was almost flat. From Frogneux, Axel Jansen, there the gradient was Pavel Vanis, Kevin Speed, going up firmly. After Marc & Marie Seguy, about 11 km I reached at a Steven Pranger, Jean- sort of plateau with great Pierre Notten, Peter views. And amongst others Notten, Wim van Els, Dirk Schwarzriegel (the climb Buschmann, Anja von of next day) was clearly Heydebreck, Ratislav visible. After this plateau Sasik, Julie, Juergen there was a downhill of Reckhaus, Luc Willem, about 2 kilometers Xavier Rutten, Daniel followed by a climb of 4 Gobert, Heiko Linnert, kilometers with a gradient Vaclav Klicnik, Luigi up to 8%. The highest Spina, Achim John, Dieter point wasn’t too Pohl, Pavel Slopovsky, impressive; simply the Gianni Solenni, Jean-Luc highest point of the road to & Fabiënne Matte Bodenmais. The return (hopefully I didn’t forget was the same as the climb someone. If so my deepest but then the other way apologies.

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Annual meeting 2012 battle took place, the high wall shower the eager crowds with Kevin SPEED of the fortress and description free gifts galore. Following this of the former gun are the cars that give Sunday 1st July 2012 emplacements. From there over announcements of how far the Holmes Chapel to Namur the top and down to the south tour is away, who the leading bank of the small river to its riders are and any news of the 08.43 train from Crewe to confluence with La Meuse then day that would be of interest. London. 12.57 Eurostar train to south along the west bank to Next came a group of low Brussels, arriving at 16.08 then local train to Namur. Arrived in Namur in the afternoon and met on the station by Dan and Natalie who had parked on the road at the back of the station then met me above the platforms at 18.00. I had mentioned in a text that I would be in a red jacket and that the bike was in a large red and black zipper bag. They took me along to his mother’s house at 47 Avenue Arthur Proces to the north west of the city centre. I would sleep here for two nights in the empty house. His mother had died earlier in the year and he was in the process of renovating the the youth hostel where I had flying helicopters from the house in order to sell it. The stayed back in 1980 – just to direction of the Muese and to house still had all the furniture relive memories. I had a drink the east. That’s where the and there was a single bed in a there and watched a World Cup riders were coming from as small room that I could use and match – forgotten which teams they raced along the north he gave me a key. I could have writing this seven months later! bank. The leading cyclists a shower but there was only From there, after a few Duvels, raced through at 2.30pm at an cold water. Dan explained my made my way back through the incredible speed on the uphill location in the city on a map city and up the hill back to the climb followed a few minutes and indicated shops and eating house at 11.00 and slept later by the peleton mass. I places then left me to my own soundly. watched Le Tour pass through devices so that I could explore. at the bends at the top of Le Later I cycled left out of the Monday 2nd July 2012 Citadelle at the junction of house and found a small Namur and the Tour de France Chemin Romagnesi and Route restaurant on Chaussée The Tour de France will be Marveilleuse ( The marvellous Louvain and had burger and cycling through Namur this route?). At 3.00 followed the chips, parking the bike inside afternoon. I walked down to crowds down the marvellous the restaurant. From there I the city at 08.30 and had route and to the Meuse River biked down the hill then back Macdonalds breakfast €2.75 and wandered along the west up the quiet road and a steep and read the local paper. That bank into the city. Too many hill to the house again. From morning I did the obligatory videos taken of the Tour de there I walked down into the sightseeing tour around the city France passing through at The city centre and along Rue de centre looking at the Place Citadel so bought another Fer / Rue de l’Ange to La d’Armes, the river memory card for my camera Sambre river and up through embankment walks and the from Photo Hall in Namur at the woods to discover La Citadel. I walked up from La €9.99. later I walked back to Citadelle from the north after a Sambre at Ponte de L’Evéché the house and went for the bike pleasant walk along the and through the woods to the and cycled 4 circuits of Le northern river bank at Rue des top. The leading promotion Citadelle, following the route Brasseurs. I explored the outer cars went through first at of the tour and also further walls and the point where the 1.00pm. People on board across to Avenue Jean Ler and

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Avenue Marie d’Artois to picked our way along minor hidden in the fog. There was explore Château de Namur, roads. Dan had arranged to certainly no scenery to take many photos. From there back meet at a road/rail /river point photos of. The ascent was on a to the city streets and took in just north of the city so this good road though woods. The the nightlife around Rue St meant having to take the lanes weather was dry on the whole, Jean and back to the house for close to the airport. As we just a smattering of rain part 10.00pm to have an early night neared Prague we had to way down to Vrchlabi. Jerry as Dan would collect me at negotiate the movement of accompanied me for some 05.00 in the morning for our trams and also be careful of distance up but as he was on a long drive to Prague. roadworks so were glad to be stronger gear he couldn’t keep off the main street and into the up with my slowness so after a Tuesday 3rd July 2012 quiet suburbs but still had to few kilometres he rode ahead Namur to Vrchlabi wait for them as they were to join the others. At the top Dan called at 05.00, we loaded walking back from the city. Fredrick, Jerry and I took up my bike and the one pannier Time was going fast and we photos in the mist at a signpost and drove me back to his house really wanted to get away as that looks something like a in Belgrade on the western side soon as possible as we still had man-made cactus tree! The top of Namur where Natalie gave another 110 kilometres to reach was along a track just off to the us breakfast of ham and eggs. I Vrchlibi where we were left from the road which ends paid my dues for the hire of the staying for the next two nights. abruptly, an old wooden peoples carrier we needed for Our route was the motorway to building on the left marks the four bikes and he drove out Mlada Boleslav then east to spot. We rode on for approx heading for the German border Jicin, Nova Paka to Vrchlabi. 500 metres to the top in even at 06.00. Dan had hired a VW The distance from Namur to thicker fog then descended van that could seat nine persons Prague is 850km (530 miles) back to the cars. We were out but we were only five and we had planned to arrive in of the mist at the first ski resort fortunately. There was space Prague between 4.00 and below the pass so took more for four bikes at the rear of the 5.00pm. Because of delays in photos here. I cycled with Jerry van in the hatchback. The van Prague it was 7.00pm when we part way down but naturally he hire was €400, the fuel estimate arrived at Hotel Albis. Most of soon wanted to speed on ahead. for 3000km of travel and back the others were there already. I was the last one back but to Namur was €300, a total of We all unpacked, changed, Dan, Pavel, etc weren’t waiting €700. As we were picking the washed and were ready for our too long – besides I was taking others up in Prague I agreed to meal followed by Saris beer to in the scenery! share the cost with Dan and relax to later. It was so good to Pomezni Boudy, Przelecz paid €250. The others would catch up on old friends such as Okraj, BIG number 827, 1046 pay €70 each. It was a long trip Wim, Francois , Bernard and metres and a good idea for Dan and I Jurgen. Bikes back in the peoples to share the driving. Surely it carrier at Jilemnice Dan drives was much to far for him to Wednesday 4th July 2012 through Vrchlabi to Svoboda drive alone, his original Krknose Tour Nad Upou to the east however intention. There was too great a Vrchlabi to Vrbatova Bouda, we took a wrong turning at risk of lack of concentration at Przel’ecz Okraj and Rudnik as we were confused by the wheel over such a long Spindlerova Bouda roadworks and lack of direction distance. Our route was along Vrbatova Bouda, BIG number indicators – not only that but the motorway A15 to Leige 836, 1395 metres the satellite navigation being then A3 to Aachen, Cologne, The first pass of the tour starts very clever and sophisticated Limburg, Frankfurt, at Jilemnice (or Starkenbach in took into account the Wurtzburg, Bamberg, north of German) 6km to the west of roadworks and directed us Bayreuth, over the Czech Vrchlabi. We all bundled our south through Hostinne border to Cheb, Karlovy Vary bikes into our vehicles – some (Arnau) instead of the direct and to Prague. We collected rode the 6km. We parked at a road. It was interesting to see Pavel Panis in the outskirts of dusty car park just before the the white buildings at Trutnov Prague near the airport, roundabout for the road to the on the way though. From followed by Jerry Nilsen and pass striking north from here. Svoboda just north of here we Fredrik Granlund at the place The road is a gradual ascent to park up at a green area by a they were staying elsewhere in within 5km from the road river bridge then all ride Prague. It was interesting to see summit and it was foggy at the together following the stream some of the villages just to the top. I took the usual photos up on the right through wooded west of Prague as we carefully there of the buildings almost country then take a right turn

81 BIG Review 2013 where I started to lag behind desired, as they waited for me Thursday 5th July on the steeper section here and at the top. The way up is 2012Jeseniky Tour ride alone part way. Dan was gradual as far as a lake on the Sὺchy Vrch, Cevernohorske good enough to wait for me right then a little steeper Sedlo and Pradid later and we rode on together through Spindlerova ski resort. We move on from the Krknose for some distance. The road At the top end of the resort the to the Jeseniky area. It was climb to the pass starts at this road narrows for the remaining good that we sorted out point on the road to the right six kilometres to the road baggage and bikes last night so then 3km and another right summit. The road here is light that we were ready to go as heading north. I arrived at the coloured fine pebble and soon as possible after breakfast. top of the pass sooner than tarmac and very green short Our route was Trutnov, expected as I thought I had to grass on either side. I saw the Nachod, Nove Mesto, Rychnov take a right for the last 7km. pile of bikes outside the Czech and Zamberk to Cervena Voda Most of the group were waiting pub in the mist and called in to for the road climb to Sὺchy for me at the top and assured tell Dan and the rest of the Vrch. me they hadn’t been waiting group that I was continuing on Sὺchy Vrch, BIG number 838, long. Just kind words and an to the top. They would order 977 metres understatement surely! On the me a drink. I went as far as a We approached Cervana Voda way up near the top there’s an Polish pub in the mist up a after most of the others and we open clearing and this was only wide track for about 500 metres passed the road junction for the the start of the bends, first one in thick fog to the Polish border continuation of the route up to to the right. The road ends just where there is a large dated Sὺchy Vrch and we had to before the Polish border where café that needs renovating from continue to the small town as we stopped to take photos at its 1950’s style. I took some this is the lowest point of the the frontier sign. From there all photos in front of the summit climb. It was amusing to see so back down the mountain to nameplate at 1260 metres many of the party cycling the rejoin the cars except for Jerry height as indicated on the side other way as we headed for who decided to carry on over of the café wall then Cervana Voda. We parked the the pass into Poland and come backtracked down the pass for vehicle at a car park to the right back over the final pass of the approx one kilometre to where of the road just before the day, the Spindlerova Bouda, Dan and company were waiting town, unloaded and headed off from the north side and cycle for me in the Czech café for a to join the other riders in bright over to Vrchlabi. He arrived celebration drink called Saris, warm sunshine for a change. back at midnight or later and at the top of the Czech pass, We were south of the Krknose had no lights or extra clothing. only a light alcohol but for and in lower ground. From the It had also started raining later some reason it took ten minutes town to the road junction is a in the day so his night ride to make by the bartender. I fairly easy gradual rise through must have been an ordeal – but rode back down on my own. an area of short grass and we know that Jerry is always Because of the fog I was a bit views across the countryside. positive and would see cold but once the lake and ski Taking the right turn where enjoyment in the agony! resort was reached I was under there were many cars parked Spindlerova Bouda, BIG blue sky and warmer weather next to some bright coloured number 837, 1238 metres and enjoyed the descent back to huts, a café there perhaps, and The bikes were bundled back the hotel. I arrived back at into a more wooded area. The into the cars at Svoboda and we 19.40. We all enjoyed a great road is narrower with some drove back to Vrchlabi by the meal that evening and it was a sections of gravel, fallen twigs more direct route and parked pleasure to hand Francois back and the occasional pothole – a back at the hotel. We took a his curtain that I used last year good road for cycling but not left out of the hotel to the in Corsica – but then I had also for driving. This is the reason lowest point a kilometre away used it later in France, why there are so many cars at the river bridge. Near this Germany and Luxembourg! It parked at the junction so our point is the source of the River had been well travelled so only obstacle were the many Elbe. At the river bridge we wrapped it carefully and tied it walkers making their way up or took a ‘U’ turn and started in a blue ribbon and presented down from the end of the road. cycling the pass, going past the him with the ‘Grand Order of At the top are some sizable hotel. After a few kilometres the Curtain’. I had my buildings, a restaurant and the whole group left me behind own small room and single bed TV/radio mast. This was a as I was far too slow! Even so I for the two nights at Hotel perfect cycling road and no always arrive even if my timing Albis which was great. great distance so most of the would be something to be group waited at the top so that

82 BIG Review 2013 we could take some great group course we were really front, barring the remaining photos. On the way up we adventurous like Jerry! section of the road to Praded waved at Wim, Francois and Praded, BIG number 840, 1492 there’s a metal barrier. I asked some others on the way down metres the way and the attendant but most of us stayed a while. To reach Praded and our hotel smiled and raised the barrier There were many people up. for the night that’s a few but there was no need really as Later it was an easy sweeping kilometres below the top of the I could have easily ducked descent back to Cervana Voda road at the giant mast, we had underneath. I was getting really for the drive on to the next to cycle 45 kilometres through tired as I pressed on along the climb through Kraliky and Domasov, Bela and Vrbno. remaining 19 kilometres to the followed the rail track through This took me four hours with a hotel. It’s a great road, pebbly Hanusovice into Jesenik near steep rise from Bela as far as in places and tree lined all the the Polish border. We all the Karlova Studenka turn off. way with conifers. All I could parked up in the town and most of the group pressed on for the next climb but a few of us, Pavel, Fredrik, Jerry and I followed Pavel’s suggestion of trying out local beer and sausage from a favourite brewery he knew about. He wasn’t too sure of the location so had to ask some locals. It didn’t take long for him to find it near the railway line and we enjoyed an hour’s relaxation but didn’t drink too much! Thoroughly refreshed we cycled on for the next pass. Cevernohorske Sedlo, BIG number 839, 1013 metres I left them there to drink some more but I needed a head start because I knew they would pass me at some stage. I At first the road follows a think about was reaching the surprised myself how far ahead stream through wooded hotel and leave the final I got. I stopped to make sure of countryside and I passed many kilometre section to Praded a turning and just then Wim wooden houses on the way but tower itself until the morning. appeared coming down from soon the road rises through One of our part in a van the pass and told me to take the more dense woods to stopped to offer me a lift, very right fork but on returning stay eventually reach a clearing at kind but no way would I accept to the right and follow the way the top of a pass that I thought a lift having come this far! I he was going. My three just as tough as the previous politely refused but really companions were soon off pass. I thought it would be a wished I could. I reached a ahead of me of course! Up doddle but I was glad to reach hotel on the right where there through the woods then first the top of this unexpected was a bar outside and would Pavel then the other two passed climb then descend to Vrbno. I liked to have stopped but it was me but by then I was only a was conscious of time and already 8.00pm. Fortunately it few kilometres from the top so wanted to reach the hotel as wasn’t far - down a short bit to Jerry and Fredrik waited for me soon as possible so got a spurt a high valley, to the right then and we took photos at the top. on and passed quickly through left and a left turn to the The top of the pass is in a Vrbno for the long climb – or Sporthotel Kurzovni where I clearing, an ideal place for so it seems at the end of the could see some familiar posing! We freewheeled down day – heading for Praded. The vehicles parked. I was home and they went on ahead. I rode road follows a stream at first for the night! I waited patiently alone heading for the next pass but soon begins to rise but on in the reception area while however for this one it was a reaching the crossroads for Pavel was busy negotiating the ride between the two, the only Karlova Studenka slightly to rooms. What I didn’t know at occasion on the tour that we the north the road becomes the time was that the meal had to do this – unless of steeper. There’s a large car would be delayed as the rooms park to the left here and in weren’t yet allocated because

83 BIG Review 2013 some of the party had to bike first of all though it was a short We parked up at a small car back to Jesenik to recover the crossing into Poland for the park just opposite a bar (which vehicles and drive back. I was climb of the unpronounceable we frequented later!) and rode getting really hungry and Przel’ecz Salmopolska. For this easy road through Vrutky until needed to shower and change we drove through Bruntal, we reached a first hairpin but those of us there would Opava, Ostrava, Cieszyn and leading off to the right then up have to wait for the others. I Ustron to Wisla and parked up through pleasant wooded placed my bike with many off the road opposite a café /bar countryside to reach the height others in a room at the back of in Wisla. We stopped off in of Velka Luka at the top of the the reception, all securely Ostrava for me to buy some road at Martinske Hole. At the locked later. It was a great sun tan cream but I wish I top are TV radio masts and a relief when the others arrived never mentioned it as it set us red metal gate barring the way. back and we could be allocated back more than an hour. Pavel Dan and I arrived together but rooms. We enjoyed a fantastic was having a field day around shortly after I believe it was dinner but I could have ate the supermarket and at one Luigi – I know he was Italian – more, not that it was nouvelle point we lost Dan – he was in we took photos of our conquest cuisine but that I was ravenous! there somewhere! Eventually at the barren road summit that My room was shared with four after ice creams and bottles of wasn’t much to speak of except others but I didn’t need Coke – it was such a warm day for the view from the top. earplugs that night, they – we were on our way again Down to the foot of the pass probably did though! and heading for the Polish and I thought Dan needed a border. The only visible sign at beer and he looked as Friday 6th July 2012 the frontier was the welcoming exhausted as I was. Jerry stood West Tatras Tour sign into Poland then we there in an epitome of fitness Praded, Przel’ecz Salmopolska continued on through and while Dan drooped over a and Martinske Hole eventually to Wisla. much needed beer thoroughly Praded, BIG number 840, 1492 Przel’ecz Salmopolska, BIG exhausted. I remember thinking metres number 828, 934 metres I’d better take the wheel of the I had a good night’s sleep but From Wisla where we left the car when we set out again as I left early on my own at 07.00 car next to a Polski sklep we didn’t want him dropping off to and rode the short distance up rode the pass through woods to sleep heading for the hotel for to Praded tower. The road is so the top where we stopped for a the night in Habovka. The different from lower down while at an outside café at the route was now east and slightly where it passes through woods top on the left and drank coke north to our hotel just before of conifer. The area from the for energy and a few photos of the Polish border. Our route hotel upwards is short weather- a small group of us. I honestly now was south to Martin then beaten bushes and along a can’t remember detail of the Dolny Kubin to a turning off to narrow gravel road leading up pass writing this in January the right from the main road at to the tower that’s in view most 2013, should have done this Podbiel along the valley of the way up. It was a brisk before now! I remember riding Studena Dolina to Habovka. morning and bright sunshine up through woods and an This was at an excellent Hotel, and blue sky so the white tower artificial ski-lift on the left on the Julianin Dvor on the north ahead on my approach stood the way down, emerging from bank of the river with pleasant kike a bold sentinel on the a short tunnel and catching up gardens overlooking this and mountainside. It took me only with the others waiting at the the valley opposite. A fantastic twenty minutes or so to reach it vehicle for the onward trip to meal wolfed down by hungry but I could never have the next pass over the border in cyclists and a time of relaxation appreciated this yesterday after Slovakia. A few of us gathered and talk together with Saris a long ride. I asked the others at the café / bar later at the foot beer that’s reasonably cheap at and they accepted it was OK to of the pass later and had a drink €1.50 a bottle followed by an split the climb up, after all it’s then we piled back into the cars early night in preparation for just the same as resting a while for the next pass – Slovakia tomorrow’s further adventures. part way up a pass. I took here we come! I was glad just to share with plenty of photos at the top and Martinske Hole, BIG number Pavel tonight, no snoring descended back to the hotel for 846, 1460 metres heard! 08.00 just in time for breakfast. We drove from Wisla through We all set off in the cars an Istebna, Jablunkov and over the Saturday 7th July 2012 hour later to leave the Czech border at Purasovci, down Polish Tatras Tour Republic and cross over first through Cadca, Zilina to Przel’ecz Krowiarki, Przehyba the first of the Slovakia climbs, Vrutky just north of Martin. and Tatliakovo Jazaro

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After breakfast we were all in to the top. Bazck down to the suggested another route that the cars heading north again for cars band bundled back into the would take us in Slovakia and a the Polish border; back down vehicles for the next pass. parallel road south and back to the valley to Podbiel then Przehyba, BIG number 826, Habovka, we took his advice. taking a right on the main road 1191 metres Besides it was good to see for Trstena and into Poland South to Jablonka, east to some different scenery. again through Jablonka to Czarny Dunajec and through Our route was now Gmina Zubrzka Gorna where we Nowy Targ where I remember Stary Sacz to the east then to parked up on the left at a rough seeing many old communist the Slovakian border at Mnisek ground car park by the side of a style apartment blocks in dark nad Popradom, the town Stara Polski sklep. grey concrete. It looked a Lubovna, Spisska Bela, Przel’ecz Krowiarki, BIG dismal place but I’m sure there Poprad, Liptovsky Mikulas and number 829, 1018 metres were many improvements in the road north along the lake From here we assembled the recent years. On further east to back to Habovka. We saw bikes and rode the gradual Kroscienko then north to some of our group cycling incline up along the road Gmina then Golkowice Dolne along here back to the hotel snaking up through wooded where we left the vehicles and were amazed that they had sides and a good surface to the parked opposite a café / bar and cycled this distance from top where there wasn’t much to rode the well wooded bordered Przehyba. see except for a a clearing, road up to the top of the pass Tatliakovo Jazaro, BIG number some small hotels around and a and the radio mast. The top was 843, 1375 metres group of waiting cyclists for gravelly, in fact the last Dan and I were the only two the obligatory photos at a stone kilometre was hard going on that hadn’t climbed this last that commemorates Pope John most of us (except for the die- pass today. I’m sure he was Paul II and the board that has hard BIGers) walked the bikes tired after that drive. I had details of the Przyroda through rough stones to the top. shared some of it but he the Babiogorski Park Narodowy Dan collapsed and we enjoyed majority, some 180 kilometres just behind the wooden fence, taking photos! Wheeling them (112 miles). We rested a while not much to speak of really but back again, mounting and then set off together up this last the road climb to this point was freewheeling down the better pass in the early evening. South enjoyable. I remember there surface back to the car and of Habovka we were a little was a person selling local being real gluttons for confused as to where the right honey at the top and thinking punishment we were heading turn was, Dan asked at a shop my mother in law would like back for Habovka and the final then shortly after we met Wim some of that but what state climb of the day. From here who was coming down from would it be in when I finally the planned route was to go the pass. We now had the got it home! It was only a back to Habovka in the cars by correct road for the pass gradual rise most of the way, the same route through Nowy although there was no clear the steeper section being nearer Targ and Trasena but Pavel indication from the Habovka / Liptovsky road in Zuberec. The way to it was by a small chapel on the right. It was only 16 kilometres and we had to do it, personally there was no way I was going to travel all the way back here on some future occasion to cycle one pass. It was a pleasant ride up through dense woods and a good surfaced road. It became a little steeper after a few kilometres. I said to Dan as we were both struggling up , “It’s a privilege to be suffering alongside the President!” Dan was obviously tiring and behind and I carried on along the road at eight kilometres from Zuberec but this came to an abrupt end at Zverovka. I wasn’t sure at the

85 BIG Review 2013 time so took some photos would buy again afterwards – grass, wild flowers and small thinking this was the top. Dan no problem. The first section of stalk like trees for approx five was soon behind but it was the road passes through the kilometres and a series of road evident the top was further on outskirts of the Zakopane area bends to reach a wilder scene so we doubled back and took a then after a roundabout at Klin on the approach to the hotel left and this took us on further where there are touristy market and the lake at the top, the until we reached a pole barrier. stalls the road to the top enters Velicke Pleso. Some of the We passed by this and a wooded area and after a group were already at the top continued up, past a car park to further four kilometres reaches taking in the view at the terrace the pub at the top at Sedlo the top that is marked by a bar tables. I went for a Saris Zabrad, at the end of the valley small wooden shrine on the beer at €0.90 and a sausage at enclosed by the hills around left. We stopped here for a only one euro which wasn’t and just before the Rakon, the group photo-shoot taken by our bad. I sat in the covered bar for highest point that separated the expert lady photographer who a while watching part of a Slovakian valley from Poland. had the job of handling all our football match but not for long Here was the Bufet pri cameras. I dawdled on the way as others were waiting down Tatliakovom Jazere – but it was down to take in the views over below. Dan had decided to give closed. I would have bought Zakopane as Ruth and I were this one a miss so shouldn’t you a beer Dan but it wasn’t to here three years previously and stay up here too long though it be, even though we both had walked the ridge of was tempting. I wheeled the deserved it! I had one lower Gubalowka north of the town. I bike over a rickety wooden down at a wooden restaurant on could see that clearly in the footbridge opposite the Horsky the right by the barrier. I distance across the valley. I Hotel to take some photos at remember the sunset from the took a look at the market stalls, the yellow signpost that lower part of the pass over the mainly clothing, hats, belts and indicated the height and name thick conifers being a fitting walking poles (er – sticks that of Sliezsky Dom, the waterfall end to a glorious day. Dan was is not people!) Back down to at the end of the lake and the way ahead now but I was the cars where many of the jagged cliffs of the High Tatras enjoying the remaining part of group were buying in the shop and chatted to some German the pass then passed through using up the zlotys as we walkers then headed off back Zuberec just as the darkness wouldn’t be coming back into down the pass enjoying the began to set in. We all Poland. From here on it was descent to warmer air, enjoyed a fabulous meal that two remaining passes in sweeping round bends and evening and we had the Slovakia to complete the tour. great views in all directions – pleasure of meeting two Sliezsky Dom, BIG number back to the car and waiting members of the club who had 845, 1670 metres companions. come over from Poland that We drive from Poronin east to Sedlo Certovica, BIG number evening to join us at the hotel. Jurgow then south to the 844, 1238 metres Slovakian border north of We drove west to Tatranska Sunday 8th July 2012 Podspady, east to Zdiar and Strba and on to Kralova Lehota East Tatras Tour south then took a right to where we left the car off the Glodowka, Slieszky Dom and Vysoke Tatry. We had a short road in a grassy hollow then Sedlo Certovica search for the correct road to cycled the final pass of the Glodowka, BIG number 830, Sliezsky Dom and found it tour. This is a mountain road 1145 metres slightly to the east of the town bordered with conifers and After breakfast we were all in at Tatranska Polianka where some good hairpins on the way the cars heading north again for we parked at a decent car park up. Great views in open the Polish border; back down in front of Hotel Tivoli and countryside and very warm the valley to Podbiel then opposite a large white building even late in the afternoon. It’s taking a right on the main road in front of which is a road scenic all the way to the top of to Trstena then headed east junction and the brown sign the pass. Dan and I arrived at through Sucha Hora then south indicating Sliezsky Dom. the top together and sheer co- after the border through Witow Behind this are the jagged incidence that there at the top into Zakopane to Poronin edges of the High Tatras that we met three Hungarian BIG where we parked in a small looked such a welcoming members who were cycling. I parking area in front of a Polski challenge in the warm think they came up the other sklep. Some of us bought food sunshine. It’s a narrow road side and had sat with others of from here and we asked if it and a good surface all the way our group who were having a was in order to park while we to the top and the lower part of drink at the road summit bar on cycled to Glodowka and we the road is bordered by short the left as we came up. They

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to Brussels to connect with the Eurostar to London. I asked at a garage and they looked in a phone directory and told me to follow as the woman garage attendant drove to the house. Once there I asked Natalie to come with me to the rental place however Dan then appeared, so glad to see him and he had a big grin on his face. He had waited at the road junction but didn’t see that I had taken a wrong turning. I should have gone left but instead went right and was on my way to Leige! Dan took the wheel of the hire van and Natalie followed so we could were really pleased to see Dan unpacked and took everything get back again. He dropped it and can’t understand it but they back into the accommodation off, signed the papers and we knew who I was – OK those at and would leave from there the were back. He quickly drove the bar had told them! We following day. Fredrik would me to the main station and I chatted for a while and took travel home to Sweden and had only minutes to spare to photos with them then they Jerry would go to Prague main catch my last possible returned back down the station and take a train with his connection at 15.21, arriving in mountain road to the south. bike into Austria and continue Brussels at 16.27 for the We all had a last celebration his travels. Dan drove to the Eurostar. I only had 30 minutes drink – or two –or three for an Czech border then I drove in Brussels but it was sufficient hour then we dispersed back through the night as far as time. I found the platform right down the way we came north Aachen where Dan took over away and relieved as I was in to Kralova Lehota. From there and drove home to Namur. We the queue with the others most of the group were going planned to arrive back in waiting to board. I struggled back to the hotel for a second Namur between 09.00 and with the bike in the bag and night at Hsabovka but Dan, 10.00am. The estimated dumped it in the train, relaxed Jerry, Pavel, Fredrik and I distance was 1300km (812 and slept the whole way to headed west for Prague. We miles) from the last climb north London. The Eurostar left changed and washed at the of Stara Lubovna, so this Brussels Midi at 16.56, arriving restaurant/bar then I took the would take ten hours of in London St Pancras at 18.12 wheel most of the way and we driving. When we got back we I carried the bike and pannier headed away from the relaxed at Dan’s house for a along Euston Road and mountains for the last time. while after packing my bike in dumped it on the 19.10, its padded zip bag then we arriving in Crewe at 20.48 and Monday 9th July 2012 arranged that I would follow Ruth collected me. The end of Prague to Holmes Chapel him in the hire van back to the a perfect holiday – but those We drove from Liptovsky area rental drop off point, and he hours in Namur were a bit just west of Poprad to Prague, would dive his own car. A scary! most of it in the dark. I was great idea but another car glad of Pavel’s company and overtook me at a road junction 1 Polish zloty = 6 Czech interesting talk and searching and I lost sight of his car. I was Koruna questions as I drove. Poprad, now on an unknown road and Czech Koruna to Slovak Liptovsky Mikulas, Martin, ended up in a small town called Koruna almost on par with 0.98 Zilina, Sumperk, Hradec Spy. Only my sense of CZK = 1 SKK Kralove to Prague. We dropped direction got me back to £0.81 = €1.00. Recently off Pavel first at some lonely Belgrade but I couldn’t find Slovakia recently changed to spot on the edge of Prague Dan’s house. I was on the main the euro, 1.00 SKK = close to his home. He then road only a short distance away €0.033m, cycled off and we carried on to from it. I was getting frantic €1.00 = 4.25 Polish Zloty. €1 = where Jerry and Fredrik had because I was running out of 4.25 Polish Zloty, £1 = 32 CSK stayed previously. They time to get my train connection or 5.25 Polish Zlot

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PARALLEL CHALLENGE KÉKESTETŐ 25X & DOBOGÓKŐ 25X

THAT IS IRONBIG 50X 2012

Gabor KREICSI

After the Pannonhalma and Galyatető Ironbig I would like to pass the next Hungarian ironbigs. My target is to accomplish all of Hungarian BIGs with Ironbig.

When the spring set in I started This day I climbed twice on the another Ironbig, Dobogókő. On gravel road. Suddenly poured that time I had five climbings a heavy rain. I found a little to the Kékestető. Dobogókő is service aera. After the rain I not far from the house of my climed twice the Dobogókő. On the first weekend of 2012 I mother in low. So I did the was on Mátra mountain and climbing from it. The weather climbed the top of the Mátra, The two Ironbigs datas were: was not too warm, but it was Kékestető. The landscape was Distance: 1528 km no problem for me. So I snowy and the temperature was Hight difference: 33375 m climbed two different routes very low:-4 C. The people Minimum temperature: -4oC since March in parallel. wondered at me because Maximum temperature: 37oC everybody were skiing not The number of climbes with Sometimes I climbed the byking. I had had a big rain: 4/50 Kékestető with MTB on the motivation and I climbed with gravel roads. It was good pleasure. feeling to be in a quiet, and I love the Ironbig challenge! I clear forest without cars. I did would like to continue the next the climbings to the Dobogókő Hungarian BIGs, like Felső- on the surfaced road to the last Borovnyák and Misina in 2013. day.

The BIG Day was Kékestető in May. We climbed three times on that day. After the I continued the climbing in last climbing we lifted our wintertime. I think, this is no bicycles above our heads. problem if you have got a good tactics for the clothing. I Before June I passed the brought with me a rucksack 25th climbing to the with many dry and warm Kékestető. When I reached clothes in it. the top the running race was On the top I change my clothes begun. This was a very nice during two minutes. However situation for me. the winter was a good situation because the end of the road I continued the climbing of (last 4 kms) was closed for the the Dobogokő. My favourite cars. It was open only for the direction was across the wall skibuses. Hence the road was of Pilisszántó. In August I very quiet. decided to climbe the last three climbing in one day.

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A Dream that became reality: Cycling on the roof of the world! searching I came in contact brew the tea totally different Helmuth DEKKERS with a travel agency called than what we are used to here Passaat Verre Reizen (Passaat in the west! From Lijiang we Two years ago, my wife Distant Travels). A small moved on to Zhongdian or Patricia landed by chance on company that were willing to Shangri-La as it is nowadays the website of "Vlieg en Fiets" help out and the owner helped also known. And on the way or "Fly and Bike" as the me to come to a package that we visited a very tiny part of English translation is. They would fulfill our needs and that the Tiger Leaping Gorge. On offered a cycling trip from would take care of the altitude our way to Zhongdian we saw Lhasa to Kathmandu via the adjustment. I had many, many more and more the Tibetan Friendship Highway. The questions and all were influence as it used to be the website also contained some answered and suggestions went part of the most southeastern pictures of the turquoise back and forth until we finally area of Tibet before the Yamdrok Tso Lake and of the settled on a final travel ternary. Chinese invasion of 1950. snowcapped Himalaya We would fly to Chengdu in Zhongdian would be the Mountains. We were both China and spend one night second step to get used to the interested and the plan to take there and the next day visit the height as Zhongdian is at this as our next holiday Giant Panda breeding center. 3300m. I had found a website destination was born. The Which we liked as it was fun to from a Swiss cyclist (Beat problem we ran across is that see and hear the lazy Giant Heim and the website is: the complete cycling trip would Panda's chewing away the http://www.betzgi.ch/en/) who be way too tough for Patricia, bamboo. had cycled in the Himalaya's also a BIG member by the way, amongst others and he and hence she opted for a less described a pass near to tougher version were parts of Zhongdian. Ideal as a test to the ascents would be done by see if we would be ready to car. This did not appeal to me cycle at altitude. At start as in that way I would not be Patricia had said she would not able to claim the passes for the come along when I would cycle Asian continent as part of Zone but over time 12. So eventually we dropped she agreed that we would rent a the idea and that was that. It 2nd MTB so she could give it a was only last year when our try on the passes that were not daughter, who studies so long. And so she medicine, got the news that she accompanied me when we tried could perform a part of her for the first time to cycle at practical training in Nepal and altitude to Zhongdian Pass. We she asked if we would visit her rented 2 good MTBs for 300 in Nepal. Which made Patricia From Chengdu we flew to Yuan (~ 30.00 Euro) for the say: "If we go then I would like Lijiang, our first step to get whole day. And we paid 1000 to visit Tibet." Which intern accustomed to the height as Yuan bale as we did not want made me say: "If we go to Lijiang lies on2600m. Lijiang to leave our passports behind. Tibet, then I would like to has a beautiful old town where I had taken the waypoints from cycle!" So I contacted “Fly and the Naxi people dance on the the Swiss cyclist and had Bike" and checked if they also main square in their traditional programmed these into my provided an individual program clothes. And little streams run GPS. The map I hadtaken from besides of the group program along the middle of the cobbled Open Street Map they offer for the Friendship streets and there are the turning (http://garmin.openstreetmap.nl Highway cycling trip. They water wheels of course. We /, tick the box for manual didn’t. So I searched the also visited the Black Dragon selection and then select the Internet and found some Pool Park. The owner of the parts of the map you want and companies that might provide a guesthouse we stayed at, Eric it will be mailed to the email package that was tailored to our Yang from The Moon Inn, address you filled in. Dutch needs. I.e. I would cycle, but learned us about pu-ehr tea and manual on: http://www.gps- only the ascents and the Dianhong tea. And I can info.nl/tips- descents and flat parts would recommend both kinds of tea to trucs/openstreetmap/) as I did be covered by car. After some you. But note that you have to not have a map that covered the

89 BIG Review 2013 part of China nor Tibet or second part is steeper and is The next day we flew to Lhasa. Nepal that we visited. 6.14km long and 194 altimeters We were very lucky that we This map served us very well! need to be gained (3.15% on had received a permit for Tibet So based on the GPS average). Yeah, I know, it's still while we were in Zhongdian as indications we cycled out of not very demanding but from one day to another the Zhongdian as the foot of the remember that we are cycling rules of the Chinese pass is just outside Zhongdian above 3200m here! And it was government changed and it was and we started to cycle from good to find out how our only allowed to enter Tibet in 3294m. Traffic in Zhongdian bodies coped with cycling at an groups of 5people with the was busy, noisy and smelly! altitude. We did not encounter same nationality. We were Outside Zhongdian, traffic got any problems. Except for some among the last ones who were less but the trucks still dogs that chased us when we allowed to enter Tibet with just produced a lot of smelly descended. But we increased 2 persons. In Lhasa our driver exhaust fumes when they speed, as dogs here can have (Jambel) and guide (Dhundup) passed us by :-( It took 15km or rabies (so get the injections), welcomed us by putting a so before the road got nice and and that solved that problem Khata (white scarf) around our quiet and we could appreciate also. In the afternoon we neck. They would accompany the nice sunny weather and the visited the Gompa (temple us for 13 days when we would cycling. We saw Yaks in the fortification) that is located on travel through Tibet via the rocky, barren fields with their the top of hill in the old town Friendship Highway from calves and nature took over and next to it is a gigantic Lhasa to Kathmandu in Nepal. from men (no houses). Nice! prayer wheel, 24m tall. One of We first spend 3 days in Lhasa The ascent towards the pass is the biggest prayer wheels in the at 3600m and visited the Potala 22.5km long and on our way up world. And it took at least 8 and Norbulinka palaces of the we also noticed a small stupa people to get it rotating Dalai Lamas. made out of stones and Mani clockwise to spread the Foto Potala Palace stones. Mani stones are stones prayers. where a mantra has been Foto Gompa & Giant Prayer engraved in like for instance: Wheel Om mani padme hum. This is the most well-known mantra. And the Jokhang temple, the We reached the top of the pass spiritual heart of Tibet as many at 3576m but the waypoint I pilgrims come to it. And we had from the Swiss cyclist visited the Deprung and Sera indicated it was a little further monasteries. We cycled the last away still. I should have trusted 2km to the Deprung monastery on the fact that we saw prayer which have an average gradient flags above the pass as when of 7.2%. And even that felt OK we cycled further the road only at 3600m! Again a good went down. indication. Note that the MTBs Foto Zongdian Pass we had were arranged via the traveling agency in The Netherlands already. So after 3 days we left Lhasa and got There was also a nice stupa in going on the Friendship the town with prayer flags HighWay (FHW). I had bought And since the BIG meeting in hanging down from the top and a book called "Himalaya by Oberstdorf, I now know that many small prayer wheels in bike" (from Laura Stone) that the top of the pass is where the the base. describes 7 routes in detail with road has reached the highest Foto Stupa maps and profiles and 1 in text point. I.e. just before the road and one of these detailed routes goes down again ;-) So the is the FHW from Lhasa to climb was not too tough as Kathmandu. I had read about over the 22.5km we gained the blue Buddha 25km outside 282m. On average just 1.25%. Lhasa and so we visited this When looking closer to the place before we drove another profile we can distinguish 2 60km to the foot of the first parts. The 1st part is 16.22km pass called Kampa La. La is the long and then we gained just Tibetan word for Pass. And Zhongdian is a nice town well 89m (0.55% on average). The Kampa La is one of the bigger worth a visit.

90 BIG Review 2013 passes on the FHW as the stage they came driving next to 2) Drink enough as the altitude height difference is 1186m and me. We stopped at the first tends to dehydrate the body. with a length of 23.8km this available place where we had We knew this from the time we results in an average gradient our lunch. Our guide arranged were in Peru and where our of 5.84%. for every "biking" day a lunch guide kept insisting us to drink. Laura Stone writes that passes box with some bread, a So we drank a lot of tea in in the Himalaya are never that hardboiled egg, a piece of fried Tibet and I took water along steep as the old busses and old chicken, an apple and whenever I cycled. trucks that are used in Tibet something to drink. The 3) Take it easy. I.e. don't do too also need to climb them :-) It content depended on what he much. was warm and sunny so before could get his hands on in the 4) The altitude of the place I started cycling I used enough different villages we stayed. where one sleeps in the evening sun burn cream to avoid a sun The lunch tasted good after the should not be more than 300m burn as that is easy to get when exercise and when ready we higher then where on started it is sunny at this altitude. So I drove along the lake shore to when being above 3000m. Note cycled in shorts and with short our next stop: Nagartse. There that it's OK to cross a pass with sleeves and it went extremely was only one hotel that looked a greater height difference as well. On the flatter parts I even good in Nagartse but they long as the overnight fulfills could put the chain on the refused free admission for our the above requirement. middle cog in the front and guide and driver and hence we increase my speed. On the way decided not to stay there but It's these last 2 rules that I did up I saw yaks and people who take a very simple hotel not adhere to as we gained passed me by hung out the together. No shower nor 852m that day and I had cycled window to encourage me or to running water in the room. up Kampa La as fast as I could. take pictures of this strange There was however a thermos My body indicated clearly that person who took a bike instead bottle filled with warm water. I was overdoing it. There is not of a car to get up. The views on The toilet was outside and one much to say about Nagartse. the way up are not that special had to flush by taking water There is no reason to go there as Tibet is rather barren. It's from a large barrel and poor it but in our ternary it was to only when you arrive at the into the French toilet. I might most convenient stay over. The pass, greeted by many prayer have done too much on the next day I had planned to cycle flags, when a fantastic view is climb as I felt a mild headache Karo La and Simi La. But I offered on the turquoise and I did not fancy dinner again did not fancy eating colored Yamdrok Tso lake. (tough I did eat something). something. I had a vegetable Foto Tamdrok Tso Lake The classical symptoms that soup for breakfast just so I had

I realized that this was the point to altitude sickness. eaten something. highest point I ever reached by Nagartse is situated at an Patricia did not want me to bike. In Peru I cycle up to the altitude of 4,452m and that also cycle. But I wanted to try first Portichuelo de Llanganuco pass has an impact of course. There to see how it would feel before and though I did not reach the are some simple rules to obey I would give up. And I pass I managed to cycle up to to prevent altitude sickness: indicated that I would quit if it 4,440m. The summit of Kampa 1) Take the time to get used to did not feel good. The foot of La is at 4,773m and I had to the altitude (we did that by Karo La is in Nagartse so that's ask someone else to take a going to 4452m via Lijiang at easy. Patricia would also cycle picture as Patricia had gone to 2300m (stayed 1 day) drove in this pass as it's not a very tough the Yamdrok Tso lake to walk one day to Zhongdian at 3300m pass. The first 23km you only there with our guide. So I (stayed 1 day) and then flew to gain 346m and the average called them and then descended Lhasa at 3600m (stayed 3 gradient is just 1.5%. downwards to the lake. I seem days). Some8km outside Nagartse the to have passed them at as some road starts to follow a small

91 BIG Review 2013 river. Winds coming from the also Tibetans were there trying focus your thoughts when glaciers are funneled into the to sell prayer wheels, prayer meditating and it consists of a valley and hence it's a cold flags, etc. And also small square with four gates ascent even though the sky was square pieces of paper with containing a circle with a clear. I borrowed my Gore-Tex mantras and a windhorse on it. center point. So picture this as jacket to Patricia and took her These are used to throw into the ground floor and on top of loose arm sleeves to keep my the air when you reach the pass that another mandala has been arms warm. This ascent and you have to yell:"Tsu, tsu!" built that is a little smaller and provides superb views on the It's a ritual to increase your again and again. And then the snowy peaks of Jetung well-being or good luck. As in top has a stupa like golden Chusang (6,242m) and Jansang this way you spread the mantra structure with the parasol on Lhamo (6,324m) and due to the over the world. the top as a protection for the low gradient the cycling went evil ones. The Kumbum is fine and my slight headache did Foto Simi La lake filled with many Buddha's as not increase. It was cold though Kumbum means: One hundred as Patricia cycles slower than thousand holy images. me and I could not get warm from the cycling. The last Foto Kumbum 6.2km have an average gradient of4.68% but the ascent really starts when the road turns away from river up to the pass after 26km. We were glad that we finally saw the colorful prayer Simi La is just a glitch in the flags that mark the Karo La descent towards Gyantse. The pass at 5046m so we could get Gyantse Dzong (fortress) can be seen from far as it lies on a in to the warm car. I even rock high above the city. enjoyed my lunch and the fried From Gyantse to Shigatse (the chicken tasted great. We also 2nd largest city in Tibet) is not Foto Gyantse Dzong enjoyed the stunning view on so interesting. As the road is the glacier that comes down nearly flat. In fact it descents from Nojin Kungstang 200m even. Our guide tried to (7,190m) and almost reaches make it a bit interesting by the road. visiting a Tsampa grindery. Foto Glacier Nojin Here roasted barley is grinded Kungstang into Tsampa flour which is the basic Tibetan breakfast together with butter-tea. In Shigatse we visited another monastery: Tashilumpo. By now we have seen enough monasteries. You tend to get monastery-tired so to say even though the frescoes of Buddha

Ok, on to Simi La. This is a and the status are beautiful. We tiny pass that is just 1.7km long Two other things to visit in did perform a Kora around so it's goo I started cycling Gyantse are the Pelkor Chode Tashilumpo. It's a pilgrimage earlier. The temperatures were monastery and Kumbum. and meditation by making a better here and though I stared Hence we stayed 1 day in walk, clockwise, around a with the arm sleeves on it did Gyantse. In this monastery you sacred site or object (stupa, not take long before I could do are allowed to take pictures monastery). I gave every prayer without them. In this 1.7km I (unlike in the Jokhang Temple wheel a spin that we passed gained 85m. So again the or Potala Place) and the price is and stopped counting them at average gradient is just over fair! Unlike other monasteries 3,000. Spinning the prayer 5%. The pass lies at 4361m and like Tashilumpo in Shigatse. wheel is good for your Karma is there so the road can bypass After the Pelkor Chode in case you wondered why I an artificial lake that is used as monastery we visited the spun all of them. From the a reservoir for a dam to Kumbum. The Kumbum is in monastery walls we also saw generate electricity. Again fact a three-dimensional the Shigatse Dzong. Which is many prayer flags at the top but mandala. A mandala is used to not as nice as the one in

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Gyantse. On the square in Foto Tractor with people my eyes when I cycled below Shigatse that lies in front of the the Quomolangma National monastery there is also a Nature preserve sign. I made it, bronze statue of a cyclist. tired but satisfied of course that Worth a picture of course! OK, I reached this highest point of time to move on to the next our journey. pass: Tra La. This is again a glitch in the road. From Foto Gyatso La Shigatse it's about 27.5km to the top of Tra La at 4041m so you only gain 194m.An average gradient of 0.7%. This From the top we descended to is due to the fact that after an Lhatze. Again just a convenient initial ascent a short descent stop over for us as there is followed before the road took really no other reason to stop in us again to the pass. Did you Lhatse. On Patricia's birthday notice the "us"? Yes, we cycled we moved from Lhatse to this pass together! OK, on to Shegar. Just outside Lhatse Ok, quickly into the car to get Lagpa La. Lagpa La starts like started my climb to the highest warm and to descend to Shegar Karo La with a more flat piece pass on the FHW: Gyatso La where I decorated our room which is 45km long and this (5,253m). But first we had to with balloons and postcards of part has an average gradient of go through yet another police friends and family that I had just 1.1%.It's only after the checkpoint. I have not smuggled along for Patricia's 5005km marker (that is mentioned these but at several birthday. Our guide sung a 5005km from Beijing) that the places our guide had to show birthday song in Tibetan after I ascent really kicks in. Over the our so called Alien Travel sung a Dutch birthday song. A last 8.1km we gained 279m to Permit (ATP) to show we were nice gesture from our guide. get to the summit at 4538m allowed to travel in that part of The next day I had my first (still just 3.4%).This pass was Tibet. Anyway. on to Gyatso graveled pass as the FHW has the one decorated with an La. It's just over 28km of good tarmac but the detour to abundance of prayer flags. cycling at 4.44% on average. Everest Base Came (EBC) is Really nice! The road up follows Druwu all gravel road. Yes, on to Chu (river) for most of the Mount Everest! I had found a Foto Lagpa La distance. I saw people at work beautiful picture on the Internet on the land and it's amazing to taken from Pang La (pass) see how much labor is still showing in front of a blue sky done by hand. There are some Lhotse & Mount Everest tractors but most of the framed by prayer flags above plowing is done with cows or and below. Beautiful! But the yaks that are dressed up with chance to catch Mount Everest red plumes. The first 2/3rd of free of clouds is slim. Well, not the climb went good but the to worry, let's first take on last part I had quite some Pang La. The graveled road is On our way up we again saw headwind that slowed me down bumpy and every passing car strange transports. Cows side to and made me cold also. I had to covers me in dust clouds. But I side on a small pickup truck or stop to put on my windproof pushed on of course! As I make a complete family with their jacket and gloves. I saw a cloud my way up I see the hairpins stuff packed on a trailer pulled lingering just above the below me as a giant serpent by a tractor-like contraption. mountains. It looked so close crawling up against the Amazing! that I could touch it by just mountain. It's due to the bumpy stretching out my hand. I was road and 924 altimeters that so glad when after the last turn need to be covered that the I saw the prayer flags hanging ascent does not come easy and down from the Quomolangma again I was glad to see the National Nature preserve sign. prayer flags of Pang La This gave new energy, a little (5,199m). We were really though, to cycle the last 1.5km. lucky as we had the perfect The last meters a Chinese chap view on the Mahalangur Himal ran along while his mate was range with 4 out of the in total taking pictures. Tears came to 14 eight thousanders against a

93 BIG Review 2013 blue sky. From left to the right hosted us in their tent. From The end of our Tibetan we saw Makalu (8,4635m), there we walked up to the EBC. adventure got into sight now as Lhotse (8,516m), the famous Well, as far as you are allowed the next day I had the last 2 North Face and summit of to go that is as even there we passes in Tibet on the program. Mount Everest (8,848m), had to show our permits. We The road from Tingri to the Gyachung Kang(7,952m) and climbed up a small hillock and foot of the first pass is flattish Cho Oyu (8,201m). It was got out of breath at that altitude (222m over 66km). The first stunning! (5,200m). We could imagine pass is Lalung La and it's just how tough it would be for 11.2km to the summit at Foto Pang La climbers on Everest. The night 5,015m but this pass and the

Mount Everest's North Face is was cold but fortunately we one that follows are well like a magnet it keeps pulling had good sleeping bags. In the known for the strong your view. I sat down and morning Everest was again the headwinds. So I started with a enjoyed my lunch together with eye catcher. The air was crystal jacket, long trousers and gloves Patricia. We did not need any clear and so was the awesome even as there was a cold wind words. It was tough to get up view. Ok, we had to leave and I in the valley where the Men and get into the car for the was able to squeeze in another Chu River flows. The climb is bumpy ride to the Rongbuk climb. As soon as we crossed not so hard, 3.8% on average, Monastery. While we came the bridge near to Chosang I but due to the headwind it closer to the Rongbuk started to cycle up to Lamna La didn't come easy. I thought that monastery Mount Everest filled (5,086m). This is again a by now also the altitude would the view completely. The North graveled road but even worse no longer be a problem. So I Face is huge! I had read about than the one that lead up to had hoped this pass went the summit attempt of Irvine Pang La. Even the front easier. But the sun was shining and Mallory and hence I could suspension was not enough and and as I went higher the wind recognize with the naked eye I could have done with a full was no longer a problem and I the yellow band and the first, suspension MTB on this ascent. could do without the extra second and third step on the The front wheel moved to all clothing. Patricia, our guide ridge that leads to the summit. I sides and it was hard to keep and driver were waiting at the could see how steep the going due to this. I could not pass. Ok, on to the next pass of notorious second step is even. recall the reasons that I wanted this double pass: Yarleshung The step that plays such an to cycle this pass also. The pass La (5,125m). A 5km descend important role in the Irvine and itself is barely marked as a brought me to the foot and then Mallory mystery. pass. Just some stones and only 272m have to be gained Khatas. But it was good that over 7.6km to get to the last Foto Everest North Face the marking was there as it did Tibetan pass. On my way up I not look like a pass at all as it's got a better and better view on located on a plain. the Labuche Himal range. But it's the view from Yarleshung Foto Lamna La La that is really stunning.

A 180 degree view on snowcapped Himalayan mountain peaks like Labuche Kang (7,637m) and Shishapangma the smallest of all 14 eightthousanders

(8,014m). A beautiful and We stayed in the tourist camp On to Tingri which was hard impressive view. This pass is with a Tibetan couple who labor but now for our driver. Foto Yarleshung La

94 BIG Review 2013 also being used for sky burials. Foto On Dhulikhel second half of the 15th century. The Tibetan burial ritual and This I can recommend to you. one can see the remains like Bhaktapur is beautiful and clothes of the deceased. Time really worth a visit! As we for the longest descent in the stayed there we could explore world as we descend from the town also after the majority 5,125m down to Dolaghat at of tourists were gone which is 638m over 150km. But we perfect. made a stop in Zhangmu (2,320m) first as we needed to Then on to Kathmandu. cross over via the Friendship It's so green here after Tibet Kathmandu is chaotic, noisy bridge to Nepal. When going and so busy also. Much more and full of life. I liked it! As down, the scenery gets greener people and houses everywhere. with Bhaktapur, I will not write and it was only when we were I was passed by by cars and what you should visit here. But in our hotel in Zhangmu that busses. And the busses are if you are planning to go there we heard birds sing that we packet with Nepali and even then you can always send me a realized we didn't hear that for have Nepali on the roof mail the last weeks. Zhangmu is sometimes! I also saw a goat ([email protected] glued to the mountain side and on the roof of a bus :-) m) and I will tell you from our the hairpins that make up the Incredible. Shifting gear was experiences what you should only street it has are jammed tricky so I only shifted gear on see. We did by the way not with colorful Nepali trucks the front but at some stage even visit our daughter in Dharan as making their way down to the that went wrong and the chain there was a huge strike there border. We crossed the got off and stuck between the due to the new constitution that Friendship Bridge the next day frame and pedal. I got dirty should become active. But our and had to say goodbye to our hands when untangling the daughter came with some Tibetan guide and driver. After chain and putting it back on. It difficulties to Kathmandu a thorough inspection of our was only when I reached where we enjoyed some nice luggage by the Chinese soldiers Dhulikhel when I found out days together. Not what we had we could pass and we were that our driver had picked up in mind but we have learned handed over to a Nepali man an extra passenger. Who he did that even when things work out who guided us along the Nepali not introduce even. Initially our differently that we should customs and then handed us travel agent had planned that accept that and make the best over to our Nepali driver who we would stay in Dhulikhel but out of it. Overcoming setbacks drove us over a much worse we had asked to be rebooked to is good for your karma. road (the Chinese part up until Bhaktapur which was once the the border is a very good road) capital of Nepal during the Foto Bhaktapur Durbar further down to Dolaghat. I had great Malla Kingdom until the Square one more ascent planned. The climb from Dolaghat (638m) up to Dhulikhel (1,502m). So after we had our lunch I got going. I was glad I brought a bandana as this helmet was old and smelly. And the MTB was also not so good. Note that cycling in Nepal also means that you cycle on the left hand side of the road. While I made my way up I was followed by our driver and Patricia.

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Doorfietsen witte plastic tas. Ik keek opzij interviews en beschouwingen. Marc PEETERS, BIG-lid van en herkende de wereldfietser Prachtig stuk over Robert het eerste uur heeft in 2012 zijn Peeters, die ik niet lang tevoren Louis Stevenson afgewisseld tweede boek uitgebracht. had leren kennen. met een interview met Kristien De opvolger van “Ik fiets, dus We voerden een kort gesprek Hemmerechts. En voor een ik ben” heet "Doorfietsen". en hij bekeek met aandacht lijstjesfetisjist het heerlijkste Een boek waarin Marc mijn geliefde fiets. Ik dacht bij van al: de Top 10 van reisimpressies, interviews en het afscheid dat ik hem nooit Italiaanse cols. columns bundelt die met zijn meer zou zien, maar op allerlei grote liefde fietsen te maken beurzen van wereldfietsers en Met op 8 de Colle del Nivolet, hebben. gewone pedalanten troffen we de berg die ik zó graag op elkaar. Zijn stukken kruisten wilde tijdens mijn eenzame Hieronder het voorwoord van ook steeds vaker mijn tocht van Vilar San Costanzo Dirk Jan Roeleven fietspaden. Ik stelde ze op prijs, naar Amsterdam. Maar die schrijver De Nieuwe Fiets / want hij schrijft zonder gesloten was door sneeuwval. programmamaker Andere opsmuk, origineel en zuiver. En op 6 de Gavia, een berg die Tijden Sport ik van beide kanten ken en die Daarom ben ik blij dat dit boek me zo dierbaar is. Heerlijk om Op de ochtend na de finish van is verschenen met een mooie te lezen hoe een ander dat de Vuelta 2009 loop ik licht doorsnee van zijn oeuvre. Een beschrijft. En de terechte slingerend met mijn rossonero boek dat mij zoveel deugd doet nummer 1, de Stelvio. De beul aan de hand door het centrum omdat het wars is van op wie je niet boos kan worden. van Venlo. De avond tevoren eigendunk en een grote hebben mijn fiets en ik in de variëteit aan onderwerpen en Ik wens de lezer een aantal Spiegelzaal opgetreden in het stijlen biedt. Heerlijk boek, genotvolle uren toe met dit voorprogramma van Wilfried nooit vervelend en met lekker boek van een Wereldfietser. En de Jong. Ik las voor uit mijn veel Italiaans staal in de genen. vanwege de Italiaanse boek De Nieuwe Fiets. Het was Voor fietsers en voor hen die connectie die we hebben, sluit mooi, het werd laat. dat willen worden. ik af met de woorden waarmee ik zelf op pad werd gestuurd Mijn roodzwarte Italiaanse Het fijne is dat er een goede door mijn Italiaanse hospita: Cucchietti werd door Marc tred in het boek zit. PEDALA! Peeters in zijn bespreking van Reisverhalen, maar ook mijn boek voor het blad De Wereldfietser met veel liefde besproken. Hij was de eerste die de ziel van het boek en de ziel van de fiets haarscherp met elkaar combineerde. Verderop in dit boek is zijn relaas te lezen.

Terug naar die ochtend in Venlo. Ik passeerde een man met in zijn hand een

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