La Marmotte Gran Fondo - Europe’s Most Prestigious Sportive
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- Опубліковано 9 жов 2021
- Today is the day I’ve been planning for since early 2020, postponed 3 times!
La Marmotte Granfondo Alpes - it’s considered to be Europe’s most prestigious sportive, and is certainly one of the most challenging for the amateur - with 2000 cyclists (7000 in a non pandemic year) covering 176km and climbing 5000m over 4 Hors Category Climbs in the French Alps!
We take in spectacular scenery whilst taking on Col du Glandon West, Col du Telegraph and then straight into Col du Galibier from Valloire. With 164km and 3950m ascending on the clock, we then round off proceedings with the infamous Alpe d’Huez - the steepest climb of the day.
This is a massive challenge for any amateur cyclist - but a truly magnificent one, providing beautiful, imposing vistas, shared experience and plenty of fun along the way.
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A day I will remember for a long time. Didnt realize you crossed paths with Sifra multiple times! She definitely isnt afraid on the descents 😅
For sure Ruben - and in all honesty a week I’ll remember for ever 💯 My favourite day was our excursion from La Grave to Galibier - absolutely perfect. And there is no doubt, Sifra is strong uphill and an absolute genius down. I didnt beat her by much up the climbs, but she destroyed me on the descents - and most others I saw (for the brief time she was in sight!) 💪✊
Kudos Sir..... Having ridden those climbs (all seperate) the thought of doing them as La Marmotte scares the bejeezes outta me. You did great to get the footage and characters while suffering.
Thanks ever so much Greg 🙏 - there is no doubt that stringing all of the climbs together makes for a very very tough challenge. At the bottom of the Alpe I really did want to get off the bike 😅. Oddly enough the little films and exchanges with others make it a little easier - it’s just remembering to hit the record button or get the camera out the pocket - and managing battery life that’s the challenge 👍
Been waiting for this for weeks Phil. You held us in suspense. Many congrats and really well put together story line and shots. Gives a really good sense of the event. You beat my 2020 time by 18mins. Hopefully see you there next year as you pass me on the Alpe 🙂
Sorry for the delay Mark - we’ve got a little behind with the travel, work and moving house. Chuffed to bits that the vid reflects your own experience of the event - because the intent is to try and give people who haven’t done it a good flavour as to what it could be like to take part 👍. And for sure see you next year - sounds like we will be well paired 💯💪
Congrats Phil! That looked proper hard and emotional! Very well done and thanks for sharing. Your hard training payed off. Enjoy this great achievement!
Thanks ever so much Carlo 🙏 - and for sure the final climb up the Alpe was a proper slog 😅. But a massively enjoyable week in the Alps, and highly recommended - I’ll be back 👌🤩
Absolutely incredible ride Phil!! Stunning vistas giant kudos to you!💪💪💪💪💪
Thanks ever so much Larry - that’s hugely appreciated 🙏 - and super pleased you enjoyed the video 👌💯. It’s an incredible part of the world - and the vistas do all the talking - make the climbs fly by 🤩
Fabulous effort Phil. Well done. I have been eagerly awaiting this video and you didn’t disappoint. Stunning views and quality advice as we have come to expect. Loads of respect.
Thank you Simon, I hugely appreciate your very motivating support 🙏 It’s an extremely well organised event, in a stunning part of the world, and so pleased to hear that the advice could be helpful - the intent was to show what it could be like to take part, and what I learned (miserly power strategy and all !) 🤣
Amazing achievement Phill, many times in life I've said never again but those difficult moments are the ones I look back on and cherish more, coming through adversity and achieving a goal is a great feeling even if in the moment it might not feel like it, been a great summer of rides for you, been great to join along 👌
Cheers Paul 🙏 - and indeed I couldn’t agree more … literally I never wanted to ride a bike again going up the Alpe …. but by the Monday, I was already looking forward to the Fred Whitton 💯 A very special day, and something to cherish for sure 👌 So good to see you back in the game and building your fitness back up - WTRL 💪
Wow Phill I'm speechless! Epic ride and magnificent video, thanks so much for sharing, truly inspirational.
That’s beyond kind of you Lee 🙏💯 - it’s an epic part of the world and and incredible event - so so happy you enjoyed the video 😊
What a great video Phil! Thoroughly enjoyed that! Well done!
Thanks ever so much Rob 🙏 - really appreciate your kind support👍
Brilliant video Phill, with some outstanding imagery and as always great commentary by your good self. As a viewer I got a great sense of how difficult the day was, but how wonderful the day must have also been.
Am super pleased that the video provides an authentic feel for the day , Tony 😊👍 - and you summarise it perfectly - a super tough challenge (especially keeping consistent on the power ) but sublime - the people, riders, organisation and the scenery make for a momentous event 🤩
What a great ride. Nice to have that in the bank of memory. Thanks for capturing the beauty of those roads and sharing it with us.
I couldn’t agree more about the memories Neil 💯 The more I’ve got into cycling the more I understand that the real joy is not so much the racing or going for KOMs, but the scenery, friends and just enjoying the present that makes it so so special 👌🤩. And it’s a real pleasure to make these videos, especially when we get such lovely encouragement - much appreciated 🙏
"Absolument magnifique".......fair play Phill that was an awe-inspiring ride!! Fantastic edit Jayne an overall thoroughly enjoyable watch!! Thank you both!!
Merci Beaucoup Monsieur Clark 🙏😊 - and Jayne says bonjour and merci 👍. No doubt it’s an incredible event, with excellent organisation, but lovely people riding and the most incredible views 🤩. Makes the physical challenge much easier 👌
Incredible video Phill, absolutely riveting from start to finish 😄 your narration was epic there at times, no doubt inspired by the incredible vistas!
That’s extremely kind of you Tommy 🙏 - we’re really enjoying putting these little adventures together, and its a lot of fun to work out the narrative - which I do indeed undertake in front of the footage for inspiration 🤩
Top effort Phill on the ride and video. You never disappoint 👍👍👍
Thanks ever so much Craig 🙏 - we’re ever so grateful for your support and encouragement, it’s a pleasure to put these together 💯
long time no see. I love your last epic videos!!!! amazing scenery and great efforts of yours!
Great to see you again TFFHG 💪💯 - and thanks ever so much - super generous of you. The vistas are indeed epic 🤩 - and for sure was a huuuuge challenge for me this one 😅
Fantastic video Phil! Looks like one for my bucket list!
Matthew - I could not recommend it more as a must do event for your list 👌💯 - amazing organisation and stunning Route 🤩. Thanks ever so much for your lovely comment - very motivating👍
I finally caught up with this video. Love your shoutouts to the cyclist you meet on the way. Looks like a very respectable time Phil 😎😎. Like me it sounds like you’re a cautious descender. Practice makes perfect they say. Its Etape Du Tour 2022 for me next year so hope to do some more sportives like you. Brilliant edit - chapeau
Cheers Tok’s 🙏 - I was happy with the consistency of the power on the climbs and also the time. I reckon I could go a tad faster in the future. For sure doing a few Sportives ahead of the Etape du Tour will help a lot. Was the only way I was able to enjoy the 160km+ rides (about 80-100km is about right for me usually ) . I’ll be back in the alps next year too - absolutely stunning 🤩
Phenomenal effort, stunning scenery, fantastic narration and polished editing, well done both of you! Really nice to see Jayne riding with you on some of the other videos (you shouldn’t feel anxious about how you’ll be perceived riding the electric bike Jayne, at least you’re out there doing it and supporting your partner’s hobby, good for you!!). Great stuff 👍
Thats really lovely of you Jinx 🙏 - it’s amazing where the WattBike took me too 💯 And we’re so so pleased you enjoyed this little series from the Alps, and you sum it up perfectly . The Marmotte was incredible, but my favourite part of the week was pottering around with friends and now Jayne on the e-bike - absolute luxury 👌
Great video Phill! Epic views for miles and miles.
Thanks ever so much Tim 🙏 - an incredible event, and views on views on views 🤩 for sure 😁
Have been waiting for this one Phil. Super emotional just watching the great footage, lots of amazing memories of the day. I met some amazing people too, what an experience. Can't wait for the next la marmotte. 😖😖🤣🤣
Hi Ste ! It was amazing to meet you on the day 💯👌. I couldn’t agree more - incredible organisation, sensational route, and so many lovely lovely people . Now I’ve recovered from it - am looking forward to next year, and 7000 people riding !!! Just travelling back from Liverpool following an outing in North Wales 😅
This is madness, Insane effort! 👏🏿
Cycling is indeed a mad old activity, I couldn’t agree more Anthony 😅 - I’d never envisaged doing something like this when I bought my WattBike 3 years ago…. But there I was 🤣. Cheers 🙏
Great video Phil. Thank you for the upload!
Thanks ever so much Stuart 🙏 - our pleasure 💯👍
Phil what an amazing ride you had on this intense route! Those views were out of this world. I hope you and Jayne had some wonderful wine to celebrate this cyclists dream / nightmare ride ! Cheers 🥂
Lovely to hear from you Pena💯 and I hope all is well with the running, cycling and rowing 💪 The alps was certainly a magical place to spend some time with friends and Jayne - and for sure we enjoyed some Meursault and some excellent rose 😁
Superb video footage Phil, a stunning visual treat . Well done ,amazing performance👏👏👏
Thanks ever so much Stephen - massively appreciate your very kind comment - and kudos for to Jayme for turning all the video into a lovely edit ! I was super happy just to get around it - and turned out 200W was my magic number !
Congratulations Phill for this epic Ride! 👏💪😉👍
Thanks ever so much Rui 🙏 - an epic part of the world, and magnificent event 🤩👌
Truly spectacular once again sir 👏🏾
Thanks for checking this one out in the same evening, Paul 🙏 - a super event, incredible organisation and a magnificent route- really pleased you enjoyed 💯👍
Stunning playground, I smiled when you said "dour"
Great editing as always Jayne.👌
Stunning Playground 💯- that’s a sublime description Kev 👌. Yep - it’s was indeed a dour and miserly strategy 😅
Kudos to you Phil! Really looking forward to 2022 when I finally get to ride Marmotte and especially ADZ.
Cheers Chris 🙏 - you’ll love the event, it’s amazingly well organised, and the people are terrific plus the scenery is jaw dropping 🤩
Incredible video Phill and an amazing accomplishment! Ineos already been in touch no doubt 👍🏆
Thanks ever so much Darren 🙏 - hugely appreciated 💯 - and I can confirm that Team Ineos have been in touch, they need someone to fill their bottles with beta fuel 🤣
Very good job Phil, good strategy of pacing and recruit domestics for the valley between St Etienne de Cuines et St Michel de Maurienne was the way to go!...
Your total time is excellent, I believe ou can save 45 to 60 minutes out of the total, only by adding a few watts and and take just a little more risk on the pacing strategy, but this for next year!
Congratulations by a 7 Marmottes finisher, but alas never better than 8 hours!
Thanks ever so much Jerome 🙏 - that means a huge amount coming from you 💯. It was a big big challenge for me - and indeed I did learn a lot - plus could have probably gone a little faster on Glandon . But at the end I was absolutely spent 😅 . Looking forward to next year - and many more adventures in France 👌
Chapeau to each and every one of you, totally speechless.
Thats super generous of you CatMan 💯🙏 - and for sure, I too was in awe of some of the determination out there, people older than me getting the job done, and pushing right outside their comfort zone 💪✊
Amazing video Phill. Great pacing and stunning views. Totally get what you meant by it being attrition to complete this!
Cheers Nick 🙏 - not the most imaginative pacing, but it was effective 😅 - yep, in comparison to our little adventure this weekend, a much less technical ride, and it’s all about the base fitness - attrition but manageable attrition …… unlike rip your face off Cwm Eigiau and ….. Cowlyd! 😳
Brilliant well done... Definitely on the bucket list👍
Thanks Kenneth 🙏 - and for sure, it’s an incredible event. Really professional organisation with friendly staff and as always lovely riders on the route plus sensational vistas and terrain 🤩
right!! providing there's not another black swan event next year i,m making this trip/event my priority next year. An amazing vid Phil, stunning views, and just gave me a shit load of motivation! 👌
Amazing Paul 💯 - that’s a great decision and objective 💪. It’s an incredible part of the world to spend a week, and La Marmotte is serious but doable challenge, and the icing on a very spectacular and memorable cake ! 🤩
Great video Phil - it was really nicely put together! An awesome time from you too. I was pleased to see I made the final edit, that will forever be my 5 seconds of cycling fame! I was definitely smiling for the camera as I don't remember feeling that happy at the time.
Think you summarised the day really well and some great advice for future riders. I also felt super emotional at the top of the Galibier and AdH. You think about all the training you've put in and all the sacrifices, so to feel yourself summit those beasts felt like a really significant day in your life. It was humbling and empowering all at once - and wow did you have to dig so so deep at times during the ride.
Great content again and looking forward to more over the winter!
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Few additional thoughts from a novice cyclist for anyone watching this video and who wants to do La Marmotte in the future:
i) It is a potentially tricky day to dress for with the changeable conditions. Fortunately, the UK weather of sunshine/drizzle/wind inside an hour put me in good stead, so I had a clear plan about what I would wear in what conditions. The number of people dragging backpacks full of clothes around was surprising and not something I would have wanted to do on those climbs. Equally, some people looked very hot in the warmer parts of the ride. This all seemed avoidable with a considered (and tested!) selection of clothing. Do not underestimate how cold (even when sunny) it can get doing a 30km descent with next to zero pedalling either. (On a slight tangent equipment wise, I used an 11-30 rear cassette and found it fine, but people may say I'm insane. Very little of the ride was super super steep. Again, know what works for you I suppose!)
ii) I found the feed stop at Valloire very very busy (and it is past the start of the Galibier segment on Strava!). I saw Phil ride through this stop and very quickly wished I'd done the same. I would only stop here next time if I really really needed to. It felt counter-intuitive to cycle through feed stops, but if you have a well-planned feeding strategy (another must!) you don't always need to stop.
iii) If La Marmotte is a knife fight, the Galibier is holding a bazooka. I found the final 5-6km or so (once you see a shed/cabin above you), with some of the steepest switchbacks ahead and the altitude kicking in, absolutely draining. You really had to have the fortitude to dig in at this point. I was surprised how the altitude seemed to take about 20W off my power and I definitely felt myself breathing harder. It wasn't horrendous, but it was one more thing to contend with at an already difficult patch.
iv) The descending was surprisingly draining. They are long and as Phil said, you are probably not your most efficient here if you don't have much experience pelting down mountains. Not sure how you can re-create this in training, but core exercises (that no one does) definitely have a role I'm sure...
v) I did Alpe du Zwift fairly frequently in the year running up to this event. Once I got to the Galibier summit, I knew I would definitely definitely definitely get up AdH. It still wasn't easy, but mentally I found AdH much easier than the Galibier as I felt like I knew every inch of the climb from Zwift.
vi) Definitely speak to people that you meet in the run-up who have done it before. I gained a huge amount of insight, even on the morning of the ride, which I used during the event.
Thanks ever so much for your very kind encouragement Mike 🙏 - and also the incredible advice below. I’ll have a good look later and reply again in order to do it justice. Agreed on the stops - I only did so at the top of the Glandon (because it’s neutralised and quite relaxed) and top of Galibier ….. because for the reasons you say I was shattered ! 😅
I’ve had my tea, and now am able to give your incredible comment the appropriate consideration, Mike! It was great to see you at the top of the Telegraph, and for sure the final 4-5km of Galibier is a slog, and not going too hard at the bottom was critical. I too lost power as a result of altitude, and provided you get your head around the fact that its a lack of oxygen that causes it, and there’s nothing you can do to hit the power you would ordinarily sustain at sea level - then all good! As noted I agree with the stops - too many is too much of a distraction. Figuring out the clothing was tough - so I opted for the layers (leg and arm sleeves ) and a Castelli GABA jacket. I took off the leg sleeves at the top of the Glandon. The GABA is always excellent - because if it gets a tad warm all is ok once the zip is undone. I think the 30 on the rear is fine - actually I have that on my Wilier (not the 32). It’s only for the sustained super steep gradients of more than 10% that the 32 would be optimal - but there is not much above 10% (a few ramps on the Glandon, top of Galibier and Alpe). Alpe du Zwift is a top training resource - - but its easier than the real thing. On the way back down the mountain driving back home I saw a small number of people had quit on the Alpe (being collected by family etc) and a lot were walking from quite low down. I think that with 9-11 hours in the saddle it was a bridge too far for some - and it was for me the hardest ascent of the day. For me it was a combination of having had enough of pedalling up the preceding climbs, and the fact that its the steepest climb of the day. But to your point I knew from the bottom I’d make it up - just a case of sustaining a consistent pedalling technique and maintaining the power around 200W (less would have sufficed also). Nice one Mike - maybe see you there next year or at a different event 💪✊💯. Thanks again for an incredible comment 🙏
beautiful scenery..wow!
Cheers SportsTV - it sure is an exceptionally beautiful and also mesmerising part of the world 🤩
Done x 3 La Marmotte events and loved everyone. Well done buddy 👍
Thats seriously impressive Sean ✊ - I’m due to do it again in 2022, but boy did I find that final climb up the Alpe tough 😅
Love ur openness and honesty Phil. Great vid and well done, it looked brutal 💪💪
Thanks ever so much Paul 🙏 - I appreciate you saying that. Because I wanted to ride all of the climbs at higher power - but the reality is in many ways more interesting (I have a video to explore the impact of living and riding at altitude to come). Also I’ll hopefully be accepted to ride a couple of the Matlock Hill climb events on the 24th Oct if you are around that weekend ?
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy fantastic, callum and I will come to cheer u on.
@@pneale164pn3 amazing 💯
Amazing Phil chapeau huge respect to you and the other guys 😃👍
Thanks ever so much Pete 🙏😊 - a huge challenge for me and left me absolutely shattered by the end - so agreed max respect to all who took part 💯
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy hi Phil I’m looking at what course to do next on backpedal really enjoyed http I’ve done medium and British hill climb.. I’ve tried emailing Ed for advice on which course to do over winter thinking 12 week.. any advice ?
Nice ride Phillip. Hard work to race and film - big kudos to you 👌👍💪🔝😀Best regards Martin
Cheers Martin - I appreciate you observing that 💯🙏 It was indeed a challenge to mange the batteries and different camera angles - but definitely worth sacrificing a small amount of extra time to capture the different vistas and angles 👍
Well done Phil. What a place to ride your bike 😍
Cheers JK 🙏 - for sure an incredible an simply spectacular place to ride bikes - plus along side the Fred Whitton - the best organised event I’ve been on 💯👌
Congrats on that one Phil, absolute class. Quality climbs and even better vistas! The alps really do not disappoint so they. And btw I have taken the plunge and bought myself a real bike… a gravel one though 🤭. Looking forward to next instalment. 👍🏻
Thanks ever so much Liam - that’s hugely appreciated 🙏. And nice work for taking the plunge on the gravel bike - I love the ability to ride indoors and out, and am tempted to try gravel myself 👍. I’d very much recommend the Alps - absolutely jaw dropping 🤩 and the are many good gravel and MB trails also 👍
Fantastic video! Captured the emotions brilliantly...I rode the Marmotte 6 times...finished 4 times + 2 times stopped at the bottom of the Alpe because of the heat..(Marmotton = petit Marmotte). Achieved Brevet D'or (Gold) on my final attempt (2012) and promised myself never to do this again...your video makes me want to do this again! (maybe..;-))...
Thanks ever so much Lutterop 🙏 - I hugely appreciate you saying that! And congratulations on the 4 completions and gold, and the x2 Marmotton ! It’s incredible how the climbing is attritional - and by the foot of the Alpe, I really had had my fill ! But as you say incredible to get it done, and I too am due back out this year (I’d previously paid for a package, and 2021 was a last minute decision to go) ! Good luck with your deliberations 😁
Absolutely magnificent !!!! Bloody well done. You all look so fresh at the end. My favourite line of the video..."so whose up for the Alpe". Keep up the top work Phil 💪🙌
Cheers Jem - hope your Sunday Roast was a good one - it’s that time of year 😋 It was a truly spectacular event - and very well organised, and once you’ve made a full recovery from your herniated disc, I very much hope you enjoy a few adventures of your own 🍀💯. Yep - climbing the Alpe, was a proper slog - around turn 20, all I wanted to do was get off the bike forever 🤣
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy It was a top notch roast indeed. Horrified to see my first Christmas advert on TV earlier... And Scotty have his first mince pie of the season. It'll be Rapha 500 before we know it!! (Your memory is second to none mate...😂🙌)
@@jemjones563 🤣 mince pies do sound quite enticing though 👌
Just amazing, great video Phillip and strong ride! 👊👊👊
Thanks ever so much Adam 🙏 - really chuffed to bits you like this video - it’s one hell of a tough challenge, but a sensational event and part of the word - so worth it! How’s the new bike?
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Yes I’m really happy with the new bike, just a shame we’re heading in to Zwift time of year and it won’t get so much use.
@@tiptoptigger we may get a few more crisp autumn days, and same in Dec 🤞 But great to hear you love it 💯
What an epic achievement 🙌 I’m tempted to give it a go next year. Well done Phil!
“Treble dear me” had me in fits of laughter 🤣
Cheers Matt - thats massively appreciated 🙏 - and I’d highly recommend giving it a go next year 💯 It’s superbly organised, with closed roads on the climbs and descents, with lovely people and as you can see stunning scenery . Definitely worth training the zone 2 and low 3 over the winter for 💯👌. And after the Alpe, you’ll be saying a few “treble dear me’s” of your own 🤣
Amazing watch 💕 and fine effort sir 👏
Thanks ever so much for reaching out MrRicey - an incredible part of the world, and an exceptionally professionally organised GranFondo - highly recommended !
9:38 What a photo that would make...... amazing backdrop🏞 You have had an amazing cycling year 👏
Cheers Michael 🙏 - I’ve been really fortunate to enjoy some of the best the U.K. has to offer plus riding out with friends - and this has been the icing on the cake 💯. That’s one of my favourite shots also - I actually had already shot a little piece about the pace line, and then redid it when we reached the lake with the mountains . I’ll create a small piece of Instagram content also using that 🤩
Brilliant 👏 and a long time in the making just getting there!
Cheers Ben ! 🙏. It sure was a long time coming - but I reckon the delay of 1 year was for the best. I don’t think my base fitness would have been good enough last year! Thanks for the invite to the meet up - I’d have definitely joined if I had my WattBike back. Likely 2 weeks now ! Enjoy the Full PRL 💪💯😁
Great job great projections fantastic scenery 👍
Thanks Nick 🙏 - really appreciate that ! It’s much easier when the scenery is so incredible 🤩
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Yes it is but at the same time it’s getting it all in sequence as well phill. As it tells a story along with the puffing and a little bit as you would say emotional parts 😂 👍
Oh my God Phil, wow wow woww:))) Absolutely the best video I've ever watched dear mate. Absolutely awesome. It's also great that it's long, thank you again and again Phil. Everything was perfect, roads, landscapes and your friends. Also, your explanation was very good. Please re-drive to these routes :))) Thank you for everything Phil. I'm looking forward to your long videos like this, my friend. I wish you and my sister jane healthy and happy days from Türkiye.
Atakan - you are always so generous in your encouragement ! 🙏😊 But it’s hugely appreciated 💯 I have a few more adventures for release over the coming weeks (once edited), and hope they live up to expectation! Sister Jayne is very thrilled with your compliments and we wish you the very best of good fortune for this beautiful week 👌👍
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy By the way Phil, sorry for my simple english :))) With hello.
What a beast of a ride 😅 congratulations on completing it Phil… looked fun in a strange way 😂
Cheers Giorgio 🙏 - all your recent zone 2, and huge base would definitely enable you tame La Marmotte Beast 💯💪 - it’s huge fun….right until the Alpe … then a war of attrition 🤣
Loved it Phil. The change in stature between the top of Telegraphe and the Galibier was very visible. On the top of the Galibier you knew you still had to do the Alpe, but were already in all kinds of trouble. Many kudos to you sir for still completing it the way you did. 66min up the Alpe after doing all those climbs already is an awesome time in my book.
This does however tell me I really need to lose another 10kg before I even start thinking about trying to tackle La Marmotte. At 90kg I'd have to do close to 300w to keep up with you on those climbs, which is 25w above my current FTP. At 80kg that would still be 260w, but in a few years that might be manageable.
Cheers Marco 🙏😊 - and you said it… the gravity of the task slowly hits you during the Galibier, and I was proper tired by the summit…. The descent and the valley then allow plenty of recovery, but the Alpe was still a massive slog for me. You’d be surprised - to lose a few kilos and then pace it at your own time I am sure you’d get round ok - the Alpe is by far the hardest climb. The others are simply long … and beautiful though 🤩 💪
Congrats on achieving the mythical Marmotte Phill!! It's really got me thinking about how I want to do this sometime :)
Thanks ever so much Mieke 🙏 - and for sure I’d very much recommend it. It’s a very friendly and extremely well organised event - and of course stunning Route 🤩
😂 19 minutes. brilliant watch, what an experience. Legend climbs there Phil, true inspiration my friend.
Cheers Neil 🙏 and for sure I was in absolute bits at that part 🤣 . It’s a proper attritional event - beautiful but attritional. At the bottom of the Alpe d’Huez, I’d have love to have got off the bike and had a nap 💯🤣
Well done nice report, nice to see what I'll be doing next July as I've just signed up to it, also staying at the top of the alps, i may drive to the start in the morning though and collect the car the following day. Looks like a good day.
Cheers Mark 🙏 that’s very much appreciated - and nice one on signing up for the event. It’s extremely well organised and as you can see beautiful 🤩. A few people from our chalet drove down and parked rather than rode down - and I think that’s the better way to do it 💯
Fantastic video. Climbed all those epic climbs too…….not all in 1 day though. 👏👏🥳🥳👍
Thanks ever so much Paul 🙏 - and they are indeed sensational climbs all in their own right 💯 (and in all honesty - I reckon they are best savoured one or at most 2 at a time 🤩 )
3rd time I've watched this and brings back vivid memories of the highs and the pain of La Marmotte. I did it in 2000 and 2014 and we have been trying to do it for the past two years but deferred because of the covid. Six of us are in it this year though so I'll probably watch it a few more times over the coming months! It was baking hot in 2014 when we last did it and I suffered badly in the heat but still managed a bronze medal. It's a pity they don't hand out graded medals any more and I'm sure you would have got a gold Phill for your fantastic effort. 🥇
Really appreciate you reaching out on this vid, 🙏 Ashley - and very pleased to hear it brings back good but challenging memories! I’m doing it again this year - I had deferred last year my place with Sports Tours International - and then went at the last minute when a friend hired a chalet. So maybe I’ll see you there in July 👍
Excellent :) and kudos to Marco for his sweatshirt!
Thanks ever so much Jonathan 🙏 - and indeed Kudos to Marco the magnificent for his sartorial elegance 💪
Glad you could finally make it! I was also at this event, I wish I would have seen you so I could get an autograph ;) one of my favourite youtube channels.
anyways it's great reliving the event with your video. personally, I think you have been too conservative because I remember you doing 4 alpe du zwift 3 @4WKG , but I dont know if you were in the same form. [in other words - I think you've shown some mercy there sir - and this is bike racing without mercy] - ride on !
Thanks ever so much Savonge 🙏 - and it was amazing to finally get out to the Alps 🤩 I’d have loved to have met you during the event 💯 I have lost a bit of the power since the 4x Alp Du Zwift and also cJune this year. But as you’ll see in a little experiment, I suffered quite a lot sleeping for a week at 2000m altitude, and couldn’t get out my then usual power. Based on my blocks of 3x 1 hours (and 1x 2hours) tempo training on the rollers and outdoors I’d been targeting 220-240W, but that wasn’t an option this even…... I’m looking to ride it next year, aiming for the 220-240 then - with a little more experience at altitude🤞
I've loved watching your videos this year, and this was was an absolute epic! Any chance you could do a video on your Marmotte training plan? Inspired by your exploits, I've entered next year's Etape du Tour and I'm going to need all the help I can get!
Thanks ever so much Mark 🙏 - thats massively appreciated. And I’ve been extremely fortunate to take part in so many events and amazing rides 💯👌. I’ll do a comparison of La Marmotte and the Fred - where I’ll cover the different trainings that worked. But if you go into my videos and scroll down - you’ll see: Big Tempo for Endurance Gains (thumb Blue Ribbon Cyclist); Training For My First Sportive (thumb Sportive Training in Central London); Training for a Cycling Sportive (thumb How I Built Big Tempo). I did a lot of riding in high zone 2 / low zone 3 - below my anaerobic threshold. I did this indoors, on Zwift and on the Rollers (I love the rollers). Also I did a number of easier Sportives before taking on La Marmotte or the Fred - and also a blisteringly difficult once called The Struggle Dales and another in Exmoor . So I’d very much recommend this style of training for La Marmotte and also Sportives in the UK with climbs - but not super steep climbs (Struggle Dales is better prep for the Fred) Good luck with the training - and I’ll be at La Marmotte in 2022 also 💯
Great video! And funny to see that people will always smash the little dam near Allemond full gas before finding out that the top of the Glandon is a long-long, long ride away. You paced it perfectly.
Cheers Gerben 🙏 - indeed I’d wandered why people suddenly increased their pace 🤣 - it is indeed a very long climb, but very very absorbing and beautiful 🤩
awesome video phil, well put together. It was like i was there
Thanks ever so much Chris 🙏 - we’re super chuffed that you feel the video gives you an authentic flavour for the event, that was the objective 💯 . One day I hope to film in Australia, to give the Europeans a taste for your continent 🤞. Hope all is well 👍
Awesome once again dude. Catching up now back from work trip to Poland
Cheers Jason 🙏 - I hope Poland was productive 💯 Now work travel is back on the agenda, I find myself having to fit that in too. Not easy 😅
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Ye was good, was there 10 long big hour days bit sorted the job. Got a 3 little rides in also so that was ok. Finding the work, play, family balance is tough
Great video Phil, that looked beautiful & brutal at the same time. Great achievement. Looking forward to seeing the Fred video.
Cheers Ian 🙏 - it’s sure it’s stunning - but relentless is the word! Near the bottom of the Alpe I really did want to get off the bike 😅. The Fred video is in edit - hoping it will be ready for this weekend 👍
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy TBH I think you’d be superhuman if you weren’t at your limit after that. Brilliant ride, as I’ve said before truly inspirational to the “older gentleman” shall we say that you can achieve your goals if you work hard enough 👍🏻
That’s beyond kind of you Ian 🙏 - and agreed it’s a massive endeavour - very attritional. And for sure so so pleased you agree with the ethos of the channel - we older riders can achieve a lot more than would ever be thought possible with the right training, nutrition and recovery - that’s the bit I find most important. I can feel amazing - and then overdo it for 10days on the training and it takes a lot of R&R to recover. And for sure after these big rides - I’ve learnt (through error) the need to give my self a much easier week after 💯
Unreal that 💪 your fitness is incredible!! Congrats!
Thanks ever so much Janek 🙏 - it’s a truly sensational event and an incredible challenge - so I very much appreciate you reaching out with such amazing support 👍💯
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Hahaha i love that "i will never get on a bike again" just come back to finish watching 😂that was me the first time i rode my bike in the lakes as people on e bikes flew past me haha!
In the nicest kinda way it's great to see someone else suffering on a bike!!
@@JanekDetko to suffer to serve Janek 🤣
2016 was the last time I was riding up the glandon, absolutely cycling paradise.. must get back over for next summer 😷😃 superior road surface indeed 👌
Agreed Chris - cycling paradise 👌. And the Glandon from the West and Galibier from La Grave are absolutely on another level - so so beautiful and incredible road surfaces and engineering 💯
Brillant content and down to earth bloke.i have a 200k/3500m ride in the mountains around tuscany italy tomorrow,this gives motivation.Thanks I have subscribed and liked
Thanks ever so much Rob 🙏 - that’s extremely kind of you and very motivating for me !! Best of luck for your epic day out - what a place for an adventure 🤩💯
Smashed it and just so motivational
Thanks ever so much Rob 🙏 - and I’m beyond happy you found it motivating - for sure it’s worth the effort to train for 💯👌
great video thanks
Cheers Global Nomad (love the idea of living your sign off 👌💯 )- hugely appreciated 🙏
Great Job Phil, congrats for this epic climb tour👍💪 respect for racing and simultaneously video making, big profi👏
Also more exciting as the ZRL with Backpedal? We have a C-Battle with them (EMEA C3), I think you know them😊
Thanks ever so much Stephan 💪 - that’s very nice of you to say so! It’s an added challenge to manage the cameras and batteries etc 😅. Yes - ZRL is here, and I’m looking forward to taking part once I have my WattBike back. And no doubt you and Marco and the rest will have a ton of fun battling it out 😁💪✊
A rainbow of carbon and lycra 😆 superb video, what an effort ! The blue Willier can be proud.
Thanks ever so much Pierre-Alain 🙏 - a rainbow indeed 🌈 😁 - definately a place for you and Angela to explore with the bikes and/or e-bikes, so so so beautiful 🤩
Great effort. I think you must have passed me on the Alpe. My 4th Marmotte and I was in a whole world of pain. I rode the Glandon with Steve from Liverpool and he caught me on the Alpe. Have a click through and you can see my story of the day.
Thanks ever so much 🙏 and I just checked out your video. Really lovely edit - and amazing to get up the Alpe when feeling so under par !! Agreed on your comments about the impact of altitude - hit me hard too! I look forward to more videos from your channel
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Thanks for subscribing - subs growth is a bit slow!!!! If you find yourself in my region please give me a shout. I'm close to Chamonix Mont-Blanc. In a normal year we have a 'mini' marmotte type event most weekends from the end of May and we are less than an hour from Geneva so it is possible to fly in on the Saturday and out on the Sunday night.
Great ride.
Thanks ever so much ! 🙏 This is a truly wonderful event, very beautiful and uplifting 🤩. Definitely makes all the difference by the time you hit the final climb of the Alpe 🥵
This was truely EPIC! The "never doing that again" moments are what define endurance athletes, IMHO. It is also in those darkest moments we learn the most about ourselves and what we are capable of and ultimately how we grow as individuals. Then we will do it all again 😀.
So congratulations on getting it done 🎉🎊🍾❗️❗️
What was your fuelling strategy? How many carbs, salts and electrolytes were you taking each hour??
Dominique - thanks ever so much - and you’ll love the area when you holiday there with your wife 🤩💯. For sure I’ve learned to try and stay calm and just do what I can when I feel the need to stop - the final ascent of Alpe d’Huez was pretty dark indeed for me (from about turn 20!!) For fuelling I used gels and beta fuel plus Velo forte bars -aiming for 80g carbs per hour. The oranges at the feed stops and a bit of Coca Cola we’re extra - but super super welcome. Paul Hamblet go me a supply of LMNT electrolytes from the USA - and I had x2 sachets in 2 of my bottles 👍
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Sounds fantastic!! Having seen you do this Fondo I feel I need to attempt this next year. Will see when registration opens.
Top effort Phil.
Cheers Ethan - much appreciated 🙏💯
Nice video. I’ve finished it 8 times in the last 10 years but was a DNF this year as bailed at the bottom of the Alpe. Still searching for the elusive gold time so back again next year
To complete it 8 times is on another level Simon 💪- max respect ✊. I really didn’t much feel like riding up the Alpe by the time I got to it😅 What’s a gold time - didn’t even know they graded the times
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy thanks Phil. You’re an excellent climber from the video. Gold times are based on age. I think age 20-29 is around 7 hours 40, 30-39 is 8 hours 13. My 40s age group gold time target is 8 hours 39. I got close in 2019 with 8 hours 52 but wasted too much time stopping at top of Galibier and bottom of Alpe. I see you did 7.59 which is excellent.
A hope you mince pied you eye's out at some point..... YOU SIR ARE A BORN WINNER 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Thats beyond kind of you FTW 😊🙏 - and too too generous ! More a grinder than a winner - but a wonderful compliment thanks ☺️. It was very emotional finishing La Marmotte - but didn’t have much time to contemplate it, because we had to get straight in the car and travel back to London - for work - so was all a little rushed 😅
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Mate, you are to humble, but I mean every word I say, the world needs more people like you in it, keep being you, that's all that matters 👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻👏🏻
Stuart from London looks like Chris Froome in disguise 🥸. Great video!
He does indeed, dunphyc3 👌😁 - if only we both had his power! And thanks ever so much - thats very kind of you🙏
Respect Phil , brilliant video content , would love to tackle that challenge but at 66 years of age my legs might have other ideas 😂 , well done next Fred Whitton Hmmm🤔🤔
Thats very generous of you Brian 🙏 - it’s a pleasure to film and edit these up, and so pleased you enjoyed 👍 It did take me about a week to recover from the sustained exertion, but the steepest gradient is about 10-11% (and not for long) during the bottom of the Alpe and last bit of Galibier - so if you are able to sustain and nice zone 2, and have a good bike fit, it is doable as we age. Going up the Alpe, I really did wander how I could even contemplate the Fred…. A very different challenge as you’ll see 😁
I attempted this a few years ago. Suffering serious gastric distress, I had to bail at the foot of the Alpe and head for the hotel. Really enjoyed the day for a 200lb rider
Crikey Coldcustard !! To make it all the way up The Glandon, Telegraph and Galibier with even mild gastric distress is on another level !! 💪✊ Not surprised you bailed at the Alpe. Massive respect - and for sure one to revisit when you are ready - absolutely epic event 👌
The right gearing helps too with a ride like that
Absolutely Troy 💯 - I used a compact with a 32 on the rear - easier to keep seated and spin up Alpe d’Huez 👍
This is my dream ride. Fantastic to see so many on rim brakes despite how damp it is.
Wouldn’t it be better to execute this granfondo earlier on in the year with perhaps a more lighter, warmer, dryer set of conditions?
Anyway, Sir, I salute you.
Hi Adam - it is indeed a dream ride for me also 💯🤩. And indeed the irl brake is still supremely popular 👌. La Marmotte is meant to take place end of June for the reason you say - but was postponed to early Sept due to the pandemic restrictions. I highly recommend it - incredibly well organised and very friendly people 👍
It's been a long wait, but worth it!!
"Never ever again.... (until the next time)" :D :D
Cheers for waiting Chris 🙏 - we have quite a backlog videos - so I can confirm plenty more to come !! A must do event this one 👌
great stuff - you are inspiring me to give one of these events a crack! although im a 6'6" lankey 94kgs....i am sure its doable
Cheers Mark - and for sure it’s 💯 doable. You’d need to focus on getting comfortable with big blocks of upper zone 2 and also practicing eating 100g carbs per hour - because the eating, hydration and electrolytes is as important as the fitness👍
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Thanks Phil - really appreciate the reply! Great content I'm really enjoying it all.
one word magnafique
Three words back, Bernie … too too kind ! 🙏😁
spectacular. “beats the chimbley-pots, sir,” as sam weller says (“pickwick papers”, ch.16)
Cheers FFF 😊🙏 - and as ever a beautiful cultural reference ! The industrial chimney pots are once again rare and quite handsome 😁
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy fun fact. during the long vac in 1908 t. e. lawrence cycled 3500km around france. without the option, as the magistrates say, of di2, meilensteins, or beta fuel.
@@foundfoundfound1 yep… that would have been proper emotional on those bikes also. I saw a couple of guys complete a documentary where they tried to replicate an early TDF route on the original bikes - longer stages, and much much slower … looked like hell (beta fuel or not!) 😅
At about 200 watts still made you look like you was flying. Oh those views.
Cheers Grim 🙏. I hope you and the boys are well, Sir 💯👍. Yep - the 200W got me a long way out there - the gradients aren’t too bad for all but the Alpe…. Which was a bit …lot of a slog 😅
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy All good my end Phill. Just got a new job. 12 hour days 5 days a week. Well talking of 12 hour days. I've got to go bed. Up at 4.30 am. Looooong days
@@GrimReaper-bu9bu seriously hard work ! Best of luck with it Grim 💯
Great achievement!, congratulations, BTW very nice cycling glasses, what are those if I may ask?
Thanks ever so much Codefoto 🙏 - that’s super kind of you to say so! I’ve a number of different pairs of these sunglasses - and love them - they’re POC Aim 👌
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Thanks, checking them out!
Nice video. Stunning views and good explaination of the pacing plan. Staying at 190-210 watt.. What was your ftp at the marmotte?
Cheers Paul 🙏 - it’s a sensational route 🤩. My FTP at the time was about 280W👍
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy thnx for the insight
Kudos phill 👍👍. What is the development on your bike for this kind of event? Thanks
Thanks ever so much Cedric 🙏- very kind of you 👍. I had a compact on the front and a 32 on the rear cassette (Dura Ace)
Congrats / Great vid. Did it in 2019 and so great reminder , its always a bit of a blur . Yeah the flat / valley sections drag on a bit eh and with hindsight i burned too much before Alpe Duez and blew up.
Makes me want to do it again next year - cheers
Nice one Andy 👌 - and thanks ever so much 🙏 . For sure it was a great tip to save the energy in the valleys.. because I was on my limit to sustain 200W up the Alpe - was a massive massive slog 😅
Great video, well done!! Out of interest - what gearing were you riding?
Cheers Matthew 🙏 - thats much appreciated ! Compact and a 32 on the rear 👍
What an epic challenge! And you completed it, Phill! Fortunately, in a couple of days your brain will block out the worst parts of that experience, and you will be starting to consider doing it - or something similar - again! :D
Awesome day for all the Backpedal associated riders out there it seems. Ruben's P40 was massive, and Kaj...was that the correct pronunciation of Kaj's name. That's probably the biggest reward of them all. I can't remember who said it, but someone said a while ago that they looked forward to you trying to pronounce his name. :P Hopefully that convinces him to jump onto the BAKPDL teams soon ;P
On top of it all, you upload this just as you've been out for another Backpedal-flavored crazy ride with Nick Brownbill in northern Wales. Nick, our own mad scientist. No cakewalk for sure, that ride. xD
Thank you Lord Of the Lego ! 😁 This was a proper tough challenge - and for sure I’ll be back next year with Ed and others . Ruben, Twan, Kaij and Peter were literally on another level - and their placing a reflect that. No way on earth I could have hung with them. But we know the secret sauce now… Applestroop !! 😁. I can report that the climbs Nick and I just completed we’re the hardest I’ve ever encountered- bar non. 100km of riding there feels like 160km in most other places 😅
Yeah the pronunciation was spot on! Nice work Phill ;) As for jumping onto one of the BAKPDL teams... We'll see about that, who knows??
22 minutes; this could be a bit long to watch, I thought. I was wrong! I must come back around the world to ride this, when I can, as I've put it off before and one is not getting any younger.
Hi Lautoka - and thanks very much for checking this out 🙏. So pleased you enjoyed it - and for sure, if you get the chance to travel in 2022, it’s a must. Absolutely sensational part of the world 🤩 and an incredible well organised event 👌
@@BikeRacingWithoutMercy Thank you. We used to live in Toulouse, so I'm always keen to be back in la belle France.
Note No 2 and 3 coming in is Belgian Franky Bru and the sweede Håkon Holmberg both at the age of 57. ........Old and made of steel an eperienc. Respects
That is indeed worthy of maximum respect, Anders 💯✊
Phil, how much harder than the Fred Whitton is this? I have done the Fred and found it hard but achievable and am now looking for the next challenge
Hi Chris - I found La Marmotte easier in that I knew that it was a question of pacing and eating enough carbs. The gradient doesn’t go much above 10% and for the most part it’s 5-7% - so if you keep pedalling all is well. Whereas on the Fred there is 1000m less climbing - but on Honnister, parts of Newlands, Hardknott and Wrynose and a few other small kickers there are super steep 20-30% gradients, and points where you have to go very deep. I found La Marmotte. More attritional - and at the bottom of the Alpe would have loved to have stopped, but knew that if I just kept pedalling my 200W all would be ok. I was a withered at the end of both! I likely didn’t eat enough carbs during both rides also - I burn about 150g per hour at endurance pace and should have been eating / drinking at least 100g per hour on the bike 👍
"withered"...! :):)
I’ve some way to go to reach your illustrious heights Paul 😅 - withered is the word ! And oddly enough I can confirm that North Wales creates exactly sensation 🤣🤯
well in lad
Cheers Yoni - super kind of you 🙏
Phil did you ever think off doing Harry Potter audio books 😜😂
🤣 Michael - yep I missed a calling in the arts there!