Mark has just got back from France where he has competed in the latest Etape du Tour (the mountain stage of the Tour de France that 15000 amateur road cyclists can have a go at before the Tour gets there next week). This year was the stage from Megeve to Morzine, with 2900m of climbing in 122km of racing (www.letapedutour.com). About 12000 finished and Mark, doing his seventh Etape, avoided being swept up by the ‘Broom Wagon’ and finished in 6hrs 48 mins. He has successfully finished all, consistently finishing around average for age, and two thirds down the list of all finishers.
The main threat to life this year wasn’t the corners or the descents (tough there were several serious accidents again). The threat this year was heat exhaustion on the Joux Plane climb. 35 degrees by mid-afternoon and despite litres of water to drink and water sprays, many (about half) were walking up or flaking out under trees. Salt balance, fluid intake and nourishment become very difficult once gastrointestinal trouble starts as it did for many. There was no stopping Phillips – he has learned that restarting is worse!
Despite the dangers, cycling is worth it. Eco-friendly, low cost, energising, Vitamin D elevating, low impact bone strengthening and fitness maintenance. It can even be the fastest form of travel in London, and you don’t even have to go to the gym later if you cycle to work. And if you would like to compete in the Etape du Tour, Mark would be happy to tell you all about his experiences. He may tell you anyway!
Mark is keen to stay eternally youthful through exercise and he is committed to helping his patients do the same.
