Thursday the group split up. Half of the team and VIP's decided to ride from Courchevel to Alp d'Huez. That is a long way and goes over three major climbs. They left at 6am to make it to the Alp d'Huez in time to see Le Tour. The other half of the group left at 8am and drove to Grenoble, France and rode from there. The ride was 50 kilometers to the base of the Alp d'Huez and then we rode about 10k up the climb. I biked up the climb with coaches Greg and Dave, teammate Nick and one of the VIP's, Gino. Getting up the climb was one of the craziest things I have experienced on a bike. There were probably a million fans lining the 14 kilometer hill climb. At about 4k from the top, Nick and I ran into freestyle skiing legend Glen Plake and ended up watching the stage with him! He had been following the whole tour in a camper van, with his wife and some friends. On top of that, the stage was very exciting because Tejay Van Garderen, one of the USA riders, was off the front. Unfortunately, he was not able to hold onto first but finished second for the day.
Friday, I took the day off and did some homework. We had ridden every day for the last four days and thought it was a good idea to rest a little bit.
Saturday was our last day riding bikes with the VIP's. We woke up early and drove to Ugine, France to ride a 80 kilometer loop. It was an easier day because there were not too many big climbs. This was probably my favorite ride of the trip because half way through we were able to see the stunningly beautiful Mont Blanc. We had such a good last ride and it was the perfect way to end the trip. The VIP's then left from Ugine to Geneva, SWI because they had to fly out early Sunday morning.
Saturday night we packed up and loaded the van so that we would be ready to drive to Zurich on Sunday. Coincidentally, Saturday night was the night when the French celebrate there national holiday, Bastille Day (like the 4th of July). There were fireworks as well as a DJ playing at the city center. The whole town came out so Taylor, Brett, Adam and myself decided to join in the festivities.
Sunday morning, we woke up had a quick breakfast, did a short core workout and then hit the road. Along the way we dropped off the last VIP, Walter, in Geneva. We are now in Zurich for a night and we then fly home tomorrow.
The trip has been extremely beneficial for me. I came into the camp struggling with my jumping and finished with a good jump session. The riding has been spectacular and we had a great group of VIP's to ride with. I am already looking forward to next year's Tour de France trip.
When I return back to Park City we have about a week and a half before the Spinger Tournee competitions. I am going to be busy but will keep you posted in the near future! Au Revoir!