The fourth day of BikingMan Origine Alpes Maritimes 2024 marked a turning point in this extreme endurance race. Time is running out as the 120-hour limit approaches, and participants cling to the goal of completing this 1,000-km race across the Alpes Maritimes. Here are the highlights of this day, which saw the top three cyclists reach the podium and the final efforts of others still pushing toward the finish line.
Podium finishes (morning)
The day began with the arrival of the top three participants in Valberg, crowning Jean-Michel Maurin as the winner, closely followed by British cyclist Harvey Bird and Laurianne Plaçais. They shared their first impressions after reaching the podium:
“It’s incredible; I didn’t come here to win, just to take part. I never thought I’d get to this level, and it’s an amazing feeling! Aside from some knee tendon pain, I’m actually not that tired overall; it’s not as bad as I expected!” said Jean-Michel Maurin, visibly moved by his victory. “It was magical and at the same time so tough with the terrible weather and freezing temperatures. But we went through incredible places with wild animals, and those are really the good memories.”
Laurianne Plaçais recounted her race experience and the tough moments she faced:
“After 600 km, things start happening; you stop counting kilometers, everything frees up, and that’s what pushed me to go for the second loop.”
Harvey Bird admitted the difficulty of the race, explaining that he spent the first 24 hours hating it, but eventually found the experience rewarding.
Cyclists nearing Valberg (morning)
While the top three savored their victory, many other participants were still on the course, especially within the last 100 kilometers. Passing through the Gorges du Cians provided a moment of respite for some cyclists, who could finally appreciate the scenery despite their exhaustion:
“It’s like life; it’s hard at first, but then you enjoy it,” said one exhausted but happy rider.
Anthony Nessi, catching his breath, added:
“It’s brutal, the second-to-last one; you have to be patient. That’s the key, patience from start to finish!”
Others showed resilience despite mechanical issues and accumulated fatigue.
The ascent of Col du Buis (afternoon)
Participants also tackled Col du Buis at kilometer 590, a 15-km climb with an average gradient of 5%, including sections reaching 10% in the final kilometers. Despite the improved weather, the effects of the previous days were still felt. Cyclist Guy Berton shared:
“It’s okay, but yesterday took its toll; it’s tough—my body’s taken a real beating!”
Col du Buis tested participants’ determination, but the hope of nearing checkpoint 3 in Levens kept them moving forward.
Approaching checkpoint 3 in Levens (late afternoon)
As they neared checkpoint 3, cyclists gathered, sharing stories of the last few hours. Some enjoyed the long-awaited sunshine, while others rested and took a moment to recharge before setting off again. One participant reflected on the striking contrast between rain and fair weather:
“It’s pretty strange, because now we have sun, but I imagine it’s only temporary.”
The race now continued under more pleasant conditions, allowing riders to finally enjoy the beauty of the Alpes Maritimes.
The final challenge of Col de Turini (end of day)
Col de Turini, located at kilometer 860 after checkpoint 3, presented one last challenge for many participants. The rain returned, adding even more difficulty to this already demanding climb. A participant shared his exhaustion:
“This climb was endless—the worst part, I think, is how irregular it is, like a roller coaster.”
Despite everything, riders persevered, determined to overcome this last major hurdle before nearing the finish line in Valberg.
The fourth day of BikingMan Origine Alpes Maritimes 2024 was filled with emotion, from celebrating the victory of Jean-Michel Maurin, Laurianne Plaçais, and Harvey Bird to the determination of every participant who continued to battle the elements. With over 40 riders dropping out among the 128 initial participants, this race has proven just how challenging ultra-cycling is. Still, those who remain are driven forward by the desire to cross the finish line.
The final hours of the race are approaching, and day five promises to be decisive for all cyclists still in the race. Join us tomorrow for the last chapter of this epic adventure across the Alpes Maritimes.
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