THE COLD AN WET - Le Pave - Pont-ThibaultD

Le Pave - Pont-Thibault

We got up and  had a change in plans. We had planned to see the pave at Gruson, but opted for Pont- Thibault as the section of pave is much longer. (1400 meters ). These are the famed cobbles of Paris-Roubaix, the "Hell of the North".

We arrived at the route exit and drove till we found a nice pull out where we parked the car. We met a couple from Texas who are following the tour on their honeymoon. They rented bikes and car in Paris and are doing some camping along the way. We also met a most gracious couple from Belgium who had a camper with a TV we call could view under their canopy . 

We are about 200 meters from the routes entrance to this section of Pave. My first impression is one has to be crazy to ride the pave on a dry day. Today's weather is rainy and the pave is slick, very very slick. Scary slick. 

We walked this section of the route into the small town of Ennevelin. A small quaint village, with nothing more than a church, school, coffee shop/ gas station. We found the patisserie and bought some delights to supplement our breakfast. 

It is now 1100 and we have seen a few team cars scouting the route, some le tour sales vehicles. I am a sucker for a hat, so I got one. 

There is a viewing platform going up across the way where those spectators will be dry. Is seems like it will be a very wet stage. We have taken shelter in our car, 

We have just learned the sections 5 & 7 of the pave will not be part of the course, as it is too dangerous as they are down hill sections. We have also learned the Caravan will not be passing our section of the course. 

It continues to rain. Yet we did walk this complete section as we wait for the start. As we were able to watch the start and ensuing race, we were able to follow the progress and see the many crashes and the crash which ended le Tour for Froome. This was a sad moment. 

We watched with anticipation and after the Peloton entered the first section of Pave we prepared to find our spots on the course. I feel the weather probably affected the number of folks along this section, as it rains and blew continuously. We were glad to such a comfortable viewing situation considering the conditions. I am glad we have good gear for the weather, a little more warm clothing for teh top would be nice, but had to travel light. 

Lynn and I found a spot near a puddle of water, yes we knew full well we might get splashed but such a condition helped in keeping the camera view clear. 

Gendarmes and official vehicle approach and then the yellow timing motor bike. Next the riders pass in a blur as the pave shakes their tired cold bodies. Then the many team cars fly by and spray water from the puddle. Yes we did get a pinch wet but worth every minute. 

We regroup many a new acquaintance  we and splashed with mud, but we are warmed with teh elation of the event. We gated around the TV with a cup of soup to warm our insides. We stay and watch the finish as Lars Boom wet and covered with mud crossed the finish line. 

What an amazing day, so lucky to meet great people. Days like today make travel a great adventure filled with many many grand memories. Yep LIFE IS GOOD. 

Tomorrow we will go to the start in Arras.