Biking the Marmotte!

The day after we returned from Paris, we drove to Alpe d'Huez so that my biking fanatic husband could ride in the Marmotte. This is a grueling 174km cyclo sportive that starts in Bourg d’Oisans and covers four epic "Tour de France" climbs: the Col du Glandon, Col du Telegraphe, Col du Galibier and, finally, the 21 hairpin bend climb to the ski station of L’Alpe d’Huez.

Here is a close-up of Rob's expression as he crossed the finish line after 8 horrific hours. He's thinking "Why on earth did I do that?" Rob has biked the 200 mile LOTOJA race 5 times now, but he claims this one was the most painful. (Nonetheless, he wants to do it again next year. Crazy!!!)

Here is Rob with his proud family. I don't think Rob was very conscious at this point. He just needed some food and rest. (I picked up some take-out pizza and as I carried it back to our hotel, every cyclist nearby sniffed at it longingly.)
While Rob was suffering up steep climbs all day, the girls, KaRynn and I had a great time hanging out in Alpe d'Huez. I actually biked up Alpe d'Huez that morning. (I took my time as I'm THREE MONTHS PREGNANT -- fortunately all the expert cyclists that normally crowd the climb were gone doing the Marmotte.) And the Alpe d'Huez finish line was loaded with fun activities for the kids -- including this huge beach volleyball sandpit.

Here Mommy, do you want to try some sand? It's delicious.

The girls also found a bouncy castle. As a veteran LOTOJA supporter, I must say that this is the way they SHOULD do LOTOJA. No need to drive from station to station to feed your cyclist -- the food was all provided. And no need to find things to entertain your kids while you wait at the finish line -- free entertainment everywhere!

The view from our hotel at the top of Alpe d'Huez. Beautiful, isn't it?!