DAY 16 TOUR DE FRANCE CHALLENGE | CYCLING EVERY STAGE PLUS THE TRANSFERS | MOUNTAIN STAGE 12 | Amy Cycling Adventures
Video DAY 16 TOUR DE FRANCE CHALLENGE | CYCLING EVERY STAGE PLUS THE TRANSFERS | MOUNTAIN STAGE 12 with Amy Cycling Adventures
Video DAY 16 TOUR DE FRANCE CHALLENGE | CYCLING EVERY STAGE PLUS THE TRANSFERS | MOUNTAIN STAGE 12 with Amy Cycling Adventures YouTube Channel.
DAY 16 TOUR DE FRANCE CHALLENGE | CYCLING EVERY STAGE PLUS THE TRANSFERS | MOUNTAIN STAGE 12
Amy’s Cycling Adventures: A Journey Through the Mountains
On the 12th of July, Amy embarked on Day 16 of her epic cycling challenge, tackling a daunting mountain stage that promised both beauty and hardship. The total ride was 180.6 km with several challenging climbs, including the infamous coldest Soya and the notorious Porteram. Each ascent presented its own set of challenges, but Amy was determined to take them all in her stride, despite her nerves and a few setbacks along the way.
Preparing for the Climb
As dawn broke, Amy rose at dawn to beat the heat and prepare herself mentally for the day ahead. The early morning chill in the air was a welcome relief from the heat rash she had been dealing with. However, the prospect of climbing the daunting mountains made her feel like “a snail up the climbs,” but she reminded herself, “Snail pace wins the race.” With this mantra, she set off from Ash, ready to conquer the first ascent.
The Route Ahead: What to Expect
The first climb on Amy’s agenda was the 1.3 km Coate de Lambatimal, averaging 6.3% gradient, serving as a warm-up for what lay ahead. Following that, the coldest Soya, stretching 11.8 km with a 7.3% gradient, awaited her. The climactic journey through the mountains was to culminate in the Porteram, a grueling 13.5 km climb averaging 7.8% gradient. The combination of altitude, distance, and gradient would challenge any cyclist, and Amy was no exception.
As she started her ride, the exhilarating scenery of the Pyrenees surrounded her. Glistening under the sun, the mountains stood tall, promising awe-inspiring views yet challenging climbs.
Finding Motivation Along the Way
With each turn of the pedal, Amy faced doubts and fears about her climbing ability. However, she found motivation in unexpected places. Cheerful locals appeared sporadically, offering encouragement and good spirits, reminding her why she embarked on this journey in the first place. Encountering another challenging climb, the mental support from fellow cyclists and locals rejuvenated her spirit. At one point, she envisioned herself as “a mountain goat,” fuelled by the kindness of those around her.
Weather and Challenges
The weather presented its own set of challenges. As dark clouds loomed overhead, predicting rain, Amy pulled on her raincoat, determined not to let the elements dampen her spirits. “I’m not made of sugar paper,” she laughed, braving whatever the weather would throw at her. Indeed, amidst the rain and cold, she found herself reveling in one of the most beautiful days of the journey. With stunning mountain views surrounding her, Amy pushed on, knowing the finish line would be worth every ounce of effort.
Conquering the Mountains
The moment finally came when Amy began her ascent of the coldest Soya climb. “This is it,” she thought as she began the climb. The average gradient of 8% proved to be a significant test of her endurance. But with each turn of the crank, she counted down the feet remaining as if it were a countdown to victory. Five hundred feet left, then four hundred—each milestone gave her the confidence to push through the fatigue.
The Joy of Achievement
Once reaching the top, the elation was palpable. “I made it!” she shouted, joy radiating as she gazed upon the stunning vistas. Freshly unveiled mountains stood against the sky like giants, and the cool breeze brought relief after an intense climb. Celebrating her achievement with fellow cyclists, she felt the kinship of shared struggles and joys.
The descent that followed allowed Amy to catch her breath and relish the scenic beauty. With the sun breaking through the clouds, she felt as if every doubt had melted away, leaving only gratitude and exhilaration in its place. She was far from done, however; another climb loomed ahead, but she felt invigorated, buoyed by her earlier triumph.
The Final Stretch
As she approached the penultimate ascent, fatigue began to creep in. Amy’s legs were heavy with lactate, and every pedal stroke felt like a battle. The sun blazed high above, but she refused to surrender to exhaustion. Encouragement from Kyle, her support partner, buoyed her spirits. “Come on, you can do this!” he cheered, sharing in her journey and urging her up the last few arduous climbs.
With less than 1,000 feet remaining, she dug deep within her reserves, summoning every ounce of determination she possessed. The mental battle raged, but Amy kept her focus on the summit. “Less than a kilometre,” she repeated, a mantra that fuelled her through the last stretch. The thrill of nearing the top amidst breathless views of sprawling mountains kept her going.
Reflections on the Journey
Finally reaching the highest point of her day’s journey, Amy felt a wave of satisfaction wash over her. She had conquered parts of the mountain that had previously seemed insurmountable. With her surroundings transforming into a spectacular tapestry of nature, she understood the essence of her adventure. The challenges, both physical and mental, were not just hurdles but stepping stones to personal growth and resilience.
As she descended, heart racing with triumph, she knew that this stage was more than just a cycling challenge; it was an opportunity for self-discovery, reflection, and gratitude. Today had been a test, but it was one that she approached with nerves and excitement alike—and emerged victorious.
Looking Ahead
Amy’s journey continues, with more stages and climbs awaiting her. Each day presents a new array of challenges and experiences, but she carries with her the memory of the mountains and the triumph of overcoming personal barriers. “Onward to Paris,” she thought, smiling at the journey ahead. With determination and a heart filled with joy, Amy is ready to tackle whatever comes next on her cycling adventure.
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