Thomas Voeckler

The French racing legend now runs his Cyclo Thomas Voeckler Challenge through the scenic Portes du Soleil. Here’s what it takes to conquer it

ALL WELCOME

“Perfecting your cycling technique means building up a range of skills. I’ve designed the four cycling routes – from 40km to 120km – in this challenge to do just that. We have a variety of climbs and timed races on these scenic Alpine roads, including those I trained on during my racing career.”

MOUNTAIN PASSES

“The ‘Grand Parcours’ is the most physically challenging route – it takes in tough forest-lined climbs and four mountain passes on both sides of the Swiss-French border. You need to have good legs and a strong mentality in the mountains – it’s the place to practise your fighting technique.”

STIFF COMPETITION

“We offer timed races for serious cycling enthusiasts, and less competitive trek options for casual riders. The strongest ones can do the 116km two-day adventure – the more challenging a course or race, the more you learn about yourself and other riders. You develop a sense for body language, learning about the riders around you, how they’re affected and how to better them.”

ROUND TRIP

“The variety of terrain enables riders to experience different aspects of cycling, from being able to talk as you ride during the flat stages, learning as you go, to the physical demands of the mountain climbs where the talking is to yourself – using your mental cues to deal with the strain of the climb.”

MANAGE EXPECTATIONS

“I’ve always maintained that a long day in the saddle will contain several races and each climb to a summit is a finish line in itself. By taking that approach it helps to break down the challenge into manageable sections and ensure the overall ride is as enjoyable as it is rewarding performance-wise.” To join Thomas on future challenges, or find out more about cycling Portes du Soleil, visit cyclothomasvoeckler.com