My husband's girlfriend....

People often have a funny reaction when I mention that my husband's girlfriend always comes on holidays with us, and here is a photo of his precious companion, his pride and joy Cervélo.

She's the cycling equivalent of an 18 year old Spanish au-pair: young, sexy, attracts attention, and importantly, doesn't nag or answer back.  So how have I long accepted my status as Cycling Widow? Well there's that old saying if you can't beat them, join them. So let me introduce my cycling "raison d'etre", newly appointed Leopard Team member, Fabian Cancellara, aka Spartacus, as he's known in the cycling community. I wonder why?

 

Of course, if you check out some video footage of this guy, you will see his true divinity - in interviews, he's funny, loyal, and "nice". Yes, and happily married. A great team player, an all rounder!

Here's a 4 minute montage of his 2010 victories, entitled "Fabian Cancellara is God". No exaggeration then.
http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=RcNBkQXPFog&feature=related

I'm really looking forward to the Classics in March/April to see if Fabian can repeat his victories, and of course the Tour de France in July will be a 3 week window to gaze and ponder his divine status..... It's a shame that we won't be in Pézenas this July to see him (and the rest of the Tour) pass through on the way from Limoux to Montpellier, but it would probably be too much for me anyway!

If Fabian is the new Leopard, does that make me a cougar?????

Tour de France 2011 - Pézenas

The Tour de France last came directly through Pézenas town in July 2006, although it has been close to the route every year. It's very likely going to make its way here again this year on the way from Limoux to Montepllier. In this photo from 2006, you can see the peleton cruising through the main square, with the Hotel Moliere in the background. The atmosphere is just electric with the air of anticipation building all day. It's a great way to learn about the French, their culture and values. When they speak about passion, it's most visible in their love of the national sport. Although we can't be there this year, we will be watching avidly on TV, the next best alternative. Our holiday home is currently available during that time if you're interested! Check out more details on this blog.

Tour de France 2011 - Allez Le Tour!

Stage 15 of this year's Tour de France will see the cyclists come very close to Pezenas - The Tour regularly passes through Languedoc - on Sunday July 17th they will cycle from Limoux to Montpellier, taking (it's hotly rumoured) the back roads around Pezenas and Montagnac. Without doubt it will be a spectacle, and if you've never seen the Tour "live", don't miss it. Colour, excitement, passion, it's all there! Defying its critics, it's by far the most popular sports event in France, and if you witness it, and get caught up in the atmosphere, you'll understand why. Vive Le Tour!