Presentation of the 2026 season with Radio Cyclo

 
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The 2026 calendar

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  Présentation saison BIKINGMAN 2026

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Presentation of the 2026 season

Cet article Presentation of the 2026 BikingMan calendar est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

The France TV 2025 report

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  REPORTAGE France 3 - BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes

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FRANCE TV 2025 report

Cet article France TV x BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

Discover the 2025 calendar

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  LIVE SAISON 2025 - Les parcours BIKINGMAN

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Cet article Presentation of the 2025 courses est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

An emotional morning arrival

From the early hours of this last day, the finish line was alive with the arrival of brave cyclists who had faced the rigors of ultra-cycling. Starting at 5 a.m., cheers rang out as each rider crossed the finish line, celebrating the incredible feat they had accomplished.

“How are you?” someone asked an exhausted but happy cyclist.
“Great, just in time for croissants!” he joked, despite his fatigue.

Another described his arrival:

“The final stretch was tough, long, and really felt in the muscles. We had to dig deep into our reserves. But we kept going; it was important to hold onto this top spot together—we’re competitors, after all.”

A demanding course and breathtaking scenery

BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes was no easy journey.

“It was really hard, both physically and mentally. The downpours on the Lombarde, today’s heat—all combined with the fatigue made it really tough,” shared one participant.

For many, this BikingMan was the hardest race they had ever done, making the victory all the sweeter.

“This was the toughest event I’ve ever done, but it gives it a unique flavor,” said one, smiling.

Checkpoint 3 in Levens: racing against time and fatigue

Meanwhile, 150 km back at checkpoint 3 in Levens, dozens of participants were still on the course, focused on reaching the finish line before the time limit. At dawn, these ultra-cyclists were gearing up to hit the road again.

“You’re taking on Col de Turini—it’ll probably rain, you’ll be soaked, but it’ll be a real experience,” encouraged a supporter.

Another rider recounted his nighttime journey:

“I arrived at 1 a.m., managed to sleep a bit, which was crucial for setting off strong again. I hope this will be my last day. Fortunately, the good weather is back.”

The atmosphere was both tense and hopeful, with the final kilometers promising to be the toughest yet most rewarding.

The climb up Col de Turini: a formidable challenge

We then caught up with participants on the final leg of the course, mid-ascent on the iconic Col de Turini, a favorite among Tour de France fans. By midday, a small group tackled this climb, one of the most feared on the course.

“We took a beating,” laughed one of them. “The rain, the climb… impressive! But it’s all part of the adventure.”

Despite the difficulty, spirits were high:

“After the rain comes sunshine, with a smile! That’s the magic of BikingMan.”

Others acknowledged the race’s nearing end:

“It’s almost over; it’s really a treat to savor these last moments.” The riders knew they were close to achieving something significant.

The summit of Col de la Colmiane: nearing the end of the adventure

At the summit of Col de la Colmiane, at 1,503 meters, another legendary Tour de France stage, participants realized they were finally close to the finish.

“It’s finally ending—about time! We’ve gone from 10 to 25 degrees in 24 hours; it’s intense,” shared a rider.

Others used humor to stay motivated:

“I’m proud of myself, even if it’s not easy to put up with myself every day. But today, I’m happy—I’ve found a reason to be proud.”

The final kilometers: perseverance rewarded

The last kilometers of BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes are often the most grueling.

“Every pedal stroke is a victory,” explained one cyclist.

For many, the effort was as much mental as physical.

“The lesson is to take each stage one at a time. When there are 200 km left and 7,000 meters of elevation, don’t think about the finish line; just focus on reaching the next checkpoint.”

Others expressed their satisfaction in completing this epic race:

“I’m rewarded for a year and a half of training with intense sessions that required sacrifices in both family and professional life. Finishing in four days is immensely satisfying.”

The final finishers: a triumphant welcome for the “lanternes rouges”

With great emotion, the finish line welcomed the “lanternes rouges” (last finishers) of this edition, arriving with less than two hours to spare before the cutoff.

“We made it!” they declared proudly, met with applause from their fellow adventurers.

“It’s a huge sense of accomplishment,” shared one finisher. “I’m proud to have completed this feat and persevered.”

Another, visibly moved, added:

“It’s like being in a battle. We saw some fellow riders drop out along the way, but those who finish are the survivors. And carrying this ‘lanterne rouge’ is a true badge of pride.”

The end of BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes: a legendary race

BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes has finally come to a close, marking the third stop of the Ultra Cycling World Championship season. But the adventure doesn’t stop here: the “555” race has already begun, a 500-km journey to be completed in 55 hours in the Alpes Maritimes.

Before concluding, let’s take one last look at the final standings: Jean-Michel Maurin wins this edition, followed by Hervé Bird and Laurianne Plaçais. Eighty participants crossed the finish line, highlighting the difficulty and grandeur of this challenge.

Next stop: BikingMan Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes

The next BikingMan, the fourth of the season, will be held in Auvergne-Rhône-Alpes, starting on July 21 in Villard-de-Lans. Until then, thank you for following along on this incredible adventure through the Alpes Maritimes. Take care, and get ready to experience new emotions with BikingMan!

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Cet article BikingMan Alpes Maritimes 2024: the epic conclusion on day 5 est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

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 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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Cet article BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes 2024: day 4, the decisive stage before the finish est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes is the third event of the season in the self-supported ultracycling world championship. Spanning a single 1,000-kilometer course through the Alpes Maritimes, participants must conquer 22,000 meters of elevation gain in under 120 hours—five days of complete autonomy, with no external support for food, sleep, or repairs.

Axel Carion, founder of the BikingMan races, highlights the uniqueness of this event:
“This loop from Valberg to Valberg passes through iconic checkpoints in Briançon and Italy, including the Finestre and Lombarde passes. Participants will experience a variety of legendary Franco-Italian climbs in total immersion.”

The stages alternate between long climbs and descents across breathtaking landscapes, creating a course tailored for experienced endurance cyclists.

Participant insights: Strategies and expectations

Georges André “Giorgio” Camp-Rubi, a veteran with eight BikingMan races under his belt, approaches this edition in the Alpes Maritimes with optimism:
“I feel well-prepared this year. Experience has taught me how to manage tough moments.”

He reflects on his previous participation in BikingMan Brazil, a race that underscored the importance of embracing pain as a gateway to extraordinary experiences.

Axel, while detailing the technical challenges of the course, also shares advice for newcomers. The long ascents and steep gradients demand immense physical and mental resilience. According to him,
“For amateur cyclists, this course is a unique opportunity to push their limits and discover legendary locations, supported by the event’s dynamic atmosphere.”

A demanding course across France and Italy

For this edition, the event takes on an international dimension, incorporating sections in Italy. Axel explains that the idea of this “Franco-Italian duality” stems partly from the historical connection between the Alpes Maritimes and Italy, as well as the untamed beauty of the Italian passes. However, unpredictable weather and the closure of the Bonette Pass due to climatic conditions required constant route adjustments.

The stages feature a variety of challenges. Axel warns that climbs can stretch up to 30 kilometers, and the Lombarde Pass on the Italian side will test cyclists with its steep gradients. The descriptions of the mountains oscillate between admiration and caution, reflecting the essence of the race.

Preparation and perspectives of first-timers

Marion Joubert, a newcomer to BikingMan, approaches her first participation with a mix of apprehension and motivation:
“Sleep is my main concern, but I’m preparing to stop when necessary.”

She is ready to embrace the unknown, drawing on her background in multisport raids that also require endurance and resilience. Her strategy includes scouting potential rest spots and resupply points.

For Marion, this race is both a personal challenge and an opportunity to immerse herself in stunning landscapes:
“This kind of event is a chance to step out of everyday life and create unforgettable moments. Sunrises are incredible, and the scenery is a great source of motivation.”

Her approach involves pacing herself carefully and incorporating rest periods to maintain her stamina.

Clément Bancon, participating in his fifth BikingMan, plans to forgo sleep on the first night. Having successfully used this strategy before, he feels confident in his ability to manage fatigue and weather conditions:
“By optimizing sleep phases, you can save time without exhausting yourself.”

For Clément, ultracycling is a delicate balance of performance and enjoyment, and the Alpes Maritimes course represents an ideal mix of escape and physical challenge.

The challenge of mountain weather

A central concern for all participants is the unpredictability of mountain weather. Axel predicts cooler temperatures, offering relief after a recent heatwave in the region. However, rain is likely, and the combination of cold and wet conditions poses a destabilizing risk, especially on descents where hypothermia becomes a concern.

Both Clément and Marion emphasize their preparations for these elements, each packing appropriate gear. Marion highlights the difficulty of combining rain and fatigue, particularly as wet descents increase danger. Despite these challenges, Axel views unpredictable weather as an integral part of the adventure, enhancing the intensity of the BikingMan experience.

A unique event in organization and setting

Axel reflects on the logistics and efforts required to ensure participant safety despite unforeseen constraints. He expresses gratitude to the Alpes Maritimes department and Italian authorities for their support in organizing this cross-border race. With limited access to mountain roads, coordination with local authorities was essential to ensure their availability and safety.

He also emphasizes the uniqueness of this race within the ultracycling landscape:
“This is a route few people will ever have the chance to ride in their lifetime. It’s also a collective challenge where every participant contributes to the event’s unique atmosphere.”

Giorgio adds that the duality between autonomy and camaraderie—where each cyclist manages their own journey while being part of a collective adventure—is what makes BikingMan so captivating.

Goals and motivations of participants

As a veteran, Giorgio aims to savor every moment of this edition, having learned to embrace challenges and manage tough phases. For Marion, the primary goal is to finish the race, ideally within the time limit and without excessive fatigue. Meanwhile, Clément hopes for a top-15 finish while staying mindful of his pace and physical limits.

Marion concludes by encouraging more women to participate in such events:
“Once you overcome the barrier of the first participation, you realize the adventure is within reach for everyone and incredibly rewarding.”

Axel agrees, explaining that BikingMan promotes diversity among participants and aims to make endurance cycling more accessible to all.

The eve of an epic adventure

For participants, BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes 2024 represents a unique opportunity to explore the beauty of the Alpes Maritimes from an extreme and immersive perspective. The course, both exhilarating and daunting, promises to create lasting memories for cyclists, whether they are beginners or seasoned veterans.

On the eve of the start, everyone seems ready to tackle the challenge, armed with different strategies but united by a shared passion for ultracycling and exploration.

Axel concludes by emphasizing that BikingMan is not just a cycling race but a human experience where every difficulty overcome strengthens the bonds between participants and pushes them beyond their limits.

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Cet article Prologue of BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes 2024 est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

Participating in an ultracycling race is always an adventure full of challenges and surprises.

BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes is an intense race through the French Alps. The route, the weather conditions, and the demanding ascents all contributed to making this experience an unforgettable memory.

Summary of Day 3: Valberg and the Col de la Couillole

Welcome to the third day of BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes. We are in Valberg, the location of checkpoint 2 and the finish line. Before reaching this point, we had to cross the Col de la Couillole.

Early in the morning, we met participants tackling this ascent after a rainy night.

Ascending the Col de la Couillole: In Difficult Conditions

The previous night had been marked by torrential rains, making conditions particularly challenging. Several participants shared their impressions, mentioning the difficulty of cycling in the rain and cold. The climb to the Col de la Couillole, peaking at 1678 meters, was tough after such a rough night. The 17 kilometers of ascent with an average slope of 6% was a real test for the tired legs of the cyclists. Despite this, the first rays of morning sunlight brought a welcome comfort, helping to lift the participants’ spirits.

A small group of cyclists arrived at checkpoint 2 in the morning, sharing their nighttime adventures. They spoke about the difficulty of descending in the rain, the need to brake constantly, and the challenges posed by the extreme weather conditions. Each had a unique story to tell about the trials they had overcome.

Reflecting on the Route: The Col de la Lombarde

Before discussing the battle for victory, we must look back at the route to the Col de la Lombarde, situated at 2350 meters. This pass was particularly feared due to the torrential rains and freezing cold that accompanied it. Participants faced daunting conditions but showed incredible determination.

The Race Leaders: Jean-Michel Morin, Lorian Placé, and Harvey Bird

Three ultracyclists stood out at the front of the race: Jean-Michel Morin, Lorian Placé, and the Briton Harvey Bird. They continued their progression, tackling the last cols before the finish line. Jean-Michel Morin took a significant lead, crossing the final ascents with unwavering determination. The Col de Turini, well-known to cycling and motorsport enthusiasts, was one of the last major challenges before the end of the race. At this point, the cyclists had already covered more than 800 kilometers, making each pedal stroke even more demanding.

Victory for Jean-Michel Morin

Jean-Michel Morin eventually won the BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes, his first victory in the ultracycling world championship. He outpaced Lorian Placé and Harvey Bird, showcasing a remarkable performance despite the tough conditions.

This race was a true test of strength, both physically and mentally. I learned to push my limits, persevere despite difficulties, and appreciate every moment, even the toughest ones. The encounters and lessons from this experience will remain etched in my memory.

The BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes is more than just a race. It’s an adventure that tests the resilience and determination of every participant. Traversing magnificent landscapes under extreme conditions and crossing daunting cols is an unforgettable experience. For anyone seeking the ultimate ultracycling challenge, this race is a must.

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Cet article BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes 2024 – Summary of day 3 est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

Nighttime ascent of Col du Finestre (early night)

After checkpoint 1, participants launched into a nighttime battle toward Italy, facing the Col du Finestre at 2,178 meters. This 20-km climb, in freezing temperatures, proved extremely tough for the cyclists.

Several shared their thoughts, including one exhausted participant who humorously stated:

“We’re really savoring this climb. It was brutal. I can’t describe it any other way. It was practically attempted homicide.”

Sylvain Uhrweille added:

“You’ve got to be a bit off your rocker to do this, anyway.”

Guillaume de Spoelberch, sitting outside a bank doorway, shared with his usual humor:

“I found a beautiful spot after knocking on every hotel door and getting yelled at by the guys!”

The climb felt endless for many, but sunrise brought a spectacular view, rewarding their superhuman efforts.

Col de Vachera under the rain (morning)

The day’s second challenge was Col de Vachera, located at kilometer 320. Unfortunately, the sun didn’t show up, and cool, rainy weather accompanied the ultracyclists throughout the climb. One participant described the challenges encountered:

“My cleats are completely worn down, I can’t stand properly on the bike anymore. I’ll have to find a bike shop in Valberg if I want to keep going.”

The steep slopes of the pass, exceeding 10%, combined with the relentless rain, made this climb even more punishing. Despite the difficulties, cyclists were able to admire historical World War II remnants along the route.

The ascent to the chapel of Madonna del Coletto (afternoon)

In the afternoon, cyclists continued through the Piedmont region of Italy, heading toward the chapel of Madonna del Coletto at kilometer 430. This 6-km climb, with an average gradient of 9%, was a true challenge, made worse by increasingly heavy rain and thickening fog.

One participant shared his relief:

“It’s good that the rain has stopped a bit. It was really tough, and it stings a little, but it’s nice to be back on narrow forest roads.”

The chapel, a pilgrimage site, offered a temporary shelter for cyclists, allowing them to catch their breath before pressing on.

The icy challenges of Col de la Lombarde (late afternoon)

Col de la Lombarde, peaking at 2,850 meters, was one of the major trials of the day. The weather was especially harsh, with rain, cold, and fog accompanying participants throughout this 20-km ascent. One cyclist remarked:

“This climb in the rain and cold—it’s a real test. You can’t see a thing; it’s really hard to stay motivated.”

Crossing the pass, cyclists moved from Italy back into France, ready to tackle the descent toward Isola 2000.

Col de la Couillole and the race to checkpoint 2 (end of day)

The last major challenge of the day was the ascent of Col de la Couillole before reaching checkpoint 2 in Valberg, located at kilometer 539. Jean-Michel Maurin took the lead, ahead of Laurianne Plaçais. Despite the difficult weather, he managed to keep an impressive pace.

Participants’ feelings at this point were mixed. Laurianne Plaçais confided:

“This isn’t the best race experience I’ve had. More than once, I asked myself where the fun was in this, especially since riding in the rain isn’t my thing, so I wondered why I was even doing this in these conditions.”

“And did you find the answer?”

“No, it’s just that I’m a little crazy, and I won’t quit. But if I didn’t have any pride, I would have given up.”

The second day of BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes 2024 reshuffled the provisional standings, with Jean-Michel Maurin in the lead, followed by Laurianne Plaçais and British rider Harvey Bird. The course, made even more challenging by the weather, tested the resilience and determination of the ultracyclists.

Col de la Lombarde proved to be a pivotal point in the race, and the cyclists are already preparing to face the next challenges. Stay tuned for tomorrow’s recap of day 3 of this ultra-cycling epic across the Alpes Maritimes.

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Cet article BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes 2024: a rainy, cold day 2 est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

Here’s a recap of this epic first day, where every participant tested their limits against this formidable course.

First impressions before the start (morning)

Before the big start, excitement was palpable among the 120 participants, who felt a mix of anticipation and apprehension. Some shared their goals and thoughts, like athlete Bruno Laffargue, who told us:

“It’s hard to describe the feeling. A bit of impatience, a bit of worry… it’s a mix of all that. But I’m thrilled to be here.”

Others, marked by past events, were determined to push themselves. One cyclist who hadn’t finished the Corsica stage said:

“Right now, I haven’t completed a full BikingMan. The idea is to really test my body.”

The ascent of Col de la Cayolle (10:00 – 14:00)

The race began, and riders set off toward their first major challenge: Col de la Cayolle, located at the 50-km mark. Twenty kilometers of climbing awaited them, offering a majestic view. At the summit, early riders like Guillaume de Spoelberch shared their impressions:

“What a beautiful pass, wow! But it leaves its mark.”

At 2,326 meters, Col de la Cayolle is a symbolic passage in the BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes. The weather wasn’t entirely favorable at the start, with very cool temperatures and some rain. The riders prepared for a 30-km descent toward Briançon, where the weather would continue to play a crucial role.

The steep slopes of Col de Pontis (14:00 – 17:00)

The afternoon led cyclists to the day’s second big challenge: Col de Pontis. Although it’s only 5 km long and peaks at 1,300 meters, its slopes reaching 11% were impactful. A participant shared his surprise:

“This pass is tough! I didn’t think it was this steep, but it’s okay, it’s still early so I can handle it, and no rain, so that’s good.”

Gérard Rancon added:

“Ah, finally, an incline! I’m calm now. You can’t tell by looking at me, but I feel great!”

Despite the climb’s difficulty, the spectacular views of Lake Serre-Ponçon offered visual relief. This artificial lake, built in 1961 for hydroelectric energy and to irrigate local farmland, is one of Western Europe’s largest, stretching about twenty kilometers and accompanying cyclists on their route toward checkpoint 1.

Checkpoint 1 at Briançon and early reflections (17:00 – 20:00)

At the 185-km mark, cyclists reached the first checkpoint in Briançon. The leaders had already set a blazing pace, with Sébastien Pailly, winner of the BikingMan Euskadi the previous year, crossing the checkpoint first in under 7 hours, followed closely by his competitors.

The mood at this stage was mixed. Some were pleased with their strong pace, while others were beginning to feel the first signs of fatigue. One participant shared:

“I feel intense pain in my legs; I may have started out a bit too fast.”

The first night and the approach to Italy (20:00 – midnight)

As night fell, participants prepared for their first nighttime challenge. Heading toward Italy, they faced Col du Finestre, at an altitude of 2,178 meters. The temperatures dropped, making for a very cold night, especially for the top three, Sébastien Pailly, Jean-Michel Maurin, and Laurianne Plaçais.

“I’ll ride all night; whether to stop or not will make the difference,” said Jean-Michel Maurin, determined to push on without a break.

The provisional standings are:

1. Sébastien Pailly – 6h 57m
2. Jean-Michel Maurin – 7h 05m
3. Cédric Le Pennedu – 7h 23m
4. Laurianne Plaçais – 7h 23m
5. Guillaume de Spoelberch – 7h 34m

Day 1 of BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes 2024 offered a glimpse into the difficulty of this ultra-cycling event. Majestic mountain passes, varied weather conditions, and breathtaking scenery accompanied participants through this first stage.

This was just the beginning of a demanding race where every pedal stroke counts. Join us tomorrow for day 2, as the ultracyclists continue their epic journey through the Alpes Maritimes, ready to face new challenges.

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Cet article BikingMan Alpes-Maritimes 2024: the start of a breathtaking challenge on day 1 est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.

The veterans of the race: final kilometers and a first-time triumph

By 10 a.m. on Friday morning, the veterans of the race, three men aged 67 and 68, were advancing through the last kilometers. Fueled by weeks of preparation and sheer willpower, they approached these final efforts with a mix of excitement and fulfillment.

“It’s a big moment because we really spent so much time preparing, and now, being 10 km from the finish is emotional,” Didier Carfantan shares.

For them, this challenge symbolizes more than physical performance: it’s a testament to passion and unwavering determination despite the years. By noon, the three veterans cross the finish line in Le Cannet, celebrating their journey with a well-earned accomplishment. They leave behind hundreds of kilometers, elevation gains, and obstacles they overcame together, embodying the very spirit of ultra-cycling.

Rising pressure for the remaining participants

As some reach Le Cannet, about thirty cyclists are still fighting through the last 300 kilometers, where the pressure of the ticking clock grows heavier. The majestic landscapes of Daluis Gorge offer a visual reprieve, yet also announce the final daunting ascent: the Col du Buis. This peak near Saint-Auban, less than 80 km from the finish line, represents the ultimate obstacle in this challenging course.

Between emotion and achievement: the return home

Throughout the afternoon, a steady stream of cyclists arrives at Le Cannet. Among them, Jean-François Daniel, who is deaf, celebrates his arrival with palpable emotion.

“The finish is a mix of emotions, memories, and images etched in my mind,” he shares.

These moments of introspection are precious for these cyclists who, by following the set path, immerse themselves in a profoundly introspective experience. This journey, while physical, becomes a personal voyage, often symbolizing self-discovery and pushing beyond one’s limits. For Jean-François and many others, this race highlights the mental and physical preparation that went into each pedal stroke, helping them overcome self-doubt and concerns about potential mechanical issues or injuries.

At 52, married and a father of two, Franck Wendling sees this experience as a departure from his comfort zone:

“I wanted to get back to the essentials: eating, finding shelter, and above all, pushing my physical limits.”

The rain continues to fall, a constant reminder of the harsh realities of this challenge. Over the last 40 kilometers, cyclists pedal through downpours, adding complexity to each turn of the wheel.

“We even crossed a waterfall right on the road,” shares one participant.

Despite the weather, the support from teammates and friends remains a core pillar of this journey. One cyclist, who almost quit on Monday due to heat exhaustion, finds encouragement in his riding partner:

“I helped him hold on till the end. That’s my greatest satisfaction from this race.”

Striking landscapes and unforgettable memories

Cyclists speak of extraordinary landscapes, surprising encounters, and unexpected moments.

“It’s incredible to see marmots scampering by during an ascent. We don’t get that in daily life!” shares Amélie Plennevaux.

These glimpses of natural beauty offer a counterbalance to the moments of pain and fatigue, providing an emotional equilibrium on this intense journey.

Alexandre Besenval encapsulates this balance, noting:

“In 48 hours, we faced extreme heat, hypothermia, mechanical breakdowns, and moments of discouragement. But each time, we get back on the bike.”

Indeed, mental endurance remains at the heart of this adventure.

Final efforts and crossing the line to cheers

As the day draws to a close, the last rays of afternoon light guide the final cyclists through the final sections of the course. The earlier finishers gather near the finish line to welcome them. The sense of accomplishment is profound, and for some, this journey exceeded all expectations.

“It’s an achievement I made despite my doubts,” confesses Caroline Godher, still moved.

This feeling of pride mingles with physical exhaustion and the challenges they’ve faced.

In the early hours of Saturday, Gabriel Martin, the final finisher of BikingMan France, crosses the finish line with less than five hours to spare before the 120-hour limit.

“I was the last of the group all the way, but it doesn’t matter; the important thing was to finish,” he says humbly.

Exhausted but triumphant, he embodies the core spirit of this race: persevering, no matter how long it takes, to achieve a personal goal.

An unforgettable ending to an epic journey

This BikingMan France 2023 wraps up with intense emotions, indelible memories, and personal stories of perseverance. The 105 finishers of this epic adventure are its heroes, each with a unique story and challenges overcome. From scorching heat to thunderstorms, this race will be remembered for its breathtaking landscapes, challenging climbs, and the courage of those who saw it through to the end.

Participants are now invited to the next stage of the season, BikingMan Aura, set to begin in Beaumont-lès-Valence on August 7. Until then, the spirit of BikingMan lives on in the hearts of these cyclists and their supporters, staying connected through social media and live tracking to relive the moments of this race.

Find us on:

• Website : bikingman.com
• Instagram : bikingman_ultra
• Facebook : bikingmanultra
• Strava : / strava  

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Cet article Final day of BikingMan France 2023: day 5, between rain, pushing limits, and emotional finishes est apparu en premier sur BikingMan.