Day five of the Knight Frank Cycle to MIPIM is a big day in all senses – kilometres covered, metres climbed and the amount of rain cycled through in the shortest amount of time. It’s the second longest day of the event – 255km from Chalon-sur-Saône to Valence so it’s going to be a BIG day.
Stage 1 is 49km from Chalon-sur-Saône to Pont-de-Vaux. The peloton heads out into the dry morning, led by Team Lockton. At the first stop, coffee, hot chocolate and croissants are served up by friendly staff in a small café on the town square.
On stage 2, the first spots of rain are felt but they do not materialise into the forecast rain. The peloton, led by Team Civic, wends its way down long straight roads through pretty villages and towns. We are now deep in the Burgundy-producing region and the sun seems to be coming out after the chilly temperatures of the previous stop.
Lunch at the Bird Park of Villars-les-Dombes is very pleasant: the sun’s come out with intention and the riders are fed amazing baguettes made by the catering team.
The third stage – led by Team Vectos – is 51km to Saint-Quentin-Fallavier, along more very long, flat and straight roads.
Spirits in the peloton seem high and, after a quick refuel at the break, the peloton, powered by M&Ms and sugary fizzy drinks (a heady combination) heads out for stage 4. It’s 55km and five climbs – a sharp, sudden change to the previous three stages. Everyone is riding really well together, splitting into smaller groups so they can ride at a comfortable pace. The group makes good time into the final stop of the day – possibly the other favourite stop of the ride: it’s pizza time!
For the fifth and final stage into Valence, the weather unfortunately makes good on the forecast and, after being relatively kind all day, it tips it down. It continues pelting it down (“It’s like being in a washing machine”) as the riders conquer the final 47km – a feat of concentration and endurance to ride safely into the city in the dark. A lot of cold and wet riders make their way to their hotels for well-deserved hot showers and dinner.
The team are now 255km closer to their final destination – amazing work by everyone after an incredibly tough, long day.
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