Well first the good news, the massive cold front including sleet and 2 cm hail passed north of us and went to North Italy, the Italians cany have it. Now the bad news, all the high winds etc and rain associated with such a cold front are still in central France where we are.

We probably did the worst 55k’s I have ever done, we actually gained 1600 metres in ascent and at times on the flat we were down to 15kph into the wind it was so strong. One of our number (you can guess which one) was heard to say it was almost as bad as having a baby.

The photo is at lunch after 55ks when we had all had enough, wondering why we had paid money to do this. after this Marie wisely decided that as she was the only one who had actually experienced childbirth she should chat to Phillipe in the van about things !! Wise lady however she did the hardest part, in the afternoon it was better, but better is a relative term remember.

Tomorrow is another day, off to the bar to see how Peter and Marks butts are

Au revoir