THE HARDEST CLIMB OF THE PYRENEES – COL DE PORTET with Off The Marc!
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Video THE HARDEST CLIMB OF THE PYRENEES – COL DE PORTET with Off The Marc !
Video THE HARDEST CLIMB OF THE PYRENEES – COL DE PORTET with Marc Figueras Grabulosa from Off The Marc YouTube Channel.
THE HARDEST CLIMB OF THE PYRENEES – COL DE PORTET
The Col de Portet is a legendary climb in the French Pyrenees that has left a lasting impression on the world of cycling. This challenging ascent has been a part of the Tour de France in recent years, drawing in cyclists from all over the world to test their limits on its punishing slopes.
The History of Col de Portet
The Col de Portet first made its appearance in the Tour de France in 2018 and has quickly become known as one of the toughest climbs in the French Pyrenees. While the climb itself is relatively new to the cycling world, the area has a long history of hosting the race. In fact, the summit was visited by the race on 10 occasions, with the last winner being Rafał Majka in 2014. The introduction of the new finish at the top of Col de Portet has added an exciting new dimension to the climb, making it a must-visit for cyclists looking to challenge themselves on some of the most demanding terrain in the world.
The Challenges of Col de Portet
The climb to the top of Col de Portet is not for the faint of heart. The first seven kilometers of the ascent are the same as the climb of Pla d’Adet, an old friend of the Tour de France. While the early part of the climb may seem familiar to some, the new finish has added a new level of difficulty to the ascent. The last seven kilometers of the climb are a test of endurance, with no cars or motorbikes allowed on the road, creating a serene environment for cyclists to push themselves to their limits.
The Terrain and Conditions
As cyclists make their way up the climb, they quickly realize the unique nature of Col de Portet. With altitudes surpassing 2,000 meters, the air gets thinner, making it increasingly difficult to breathe. The consistent gradient of the climb, with slopes averaging around 8-10% and reaching maximum inclines of 12-13%, ensures that riders are constantly faced with a grueling challenge. The climb is so unrelenting that there is no respite, and the sheer consistency of the gradient is what makes it particularly punishing for cyclists.
Tactics and Strategy
One of the most intriguing aspects of the Col de Portet is the variety of strategies that cyclists have used to conquer its slopes. Some riders, like Nairo Quintana, have attacked from the beginning of the climb to take advantage of their climbing abilities, while others, like Tadej Pogačar, have bided their time and launched a late attack to secure victory. The element of surprise and the ability to play mind games with opponents make the climb even more challenging, as riders must stay vigilant and be prepared for any sudden moves from their rivals.
The Key Points of the Climb
The final kilometer of the climb is marked by the tunnel at the Col de Portet, a key point that signals the last stretch of the ascent. This is where riders must dig deep and summon all of their remaining energy to push through to the finish line. The tunnel has also been the site of memorable tactical maneuvers, with riders like Richard Carapaz using a poker face to deceive their opponents before unleashing a game-changing attack.
The Final Push
As cyclists emerge from the tunnel and face the final push to the top of Col de Portet, they are met with a formidable challenge. The relentless gradient and thin air make every pedal stroke a battle, and riders must summon all of their strength and determination to reach the summit. The finish line at the top of Col de Portet marks the end of an epic struggle, and riders who conquer this climb earn a sense of accomplishment that can only be achieved by taking on one of the toughest challenges in the cycling world.
Conclusion
The Col de Portet is a climb that has captured the imagination of cyclists around the world, drawing them to the French Pyrenees to test their mettle on its unforgiving slopes. With its rich history, challenging terrain, and strategic opportunities, the climb offers a unique and unforgettable experience for riders looking to push themselves to their limits. Whether it’s the consistent gradient, the tactical battles, or the sheer physical demands, the Col de Portet stands as a true titan of the cycling world, ready to humble and inspire all who dare to take it on.
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