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THE TOUR DE FRANCE

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FOIX - Ariège (09)

Each year in July, Midi-Pyrénées sets its pace to the rhythm of the Tour de France. Some of the most strategic stages of the contest take place in the region. These do of course include mountain stages where climbers get the chance to break away from the peleton. Their route traditionally features the great Pyrenean passes, starting with the legendary Col du Tourmalet (2,115m).

2010: the centenary celebration of the Tour de France in the Pyrenees
In 1910 the Grande Boucle went through the Pyrenees for the very first time. Like real pioneers, the participants had to brave eleven peaks in less than three days... This was extraordinary for the time! With no derailers and no technical assistance, they left at 3.30 am clocking up the kilometres for over 14hrs. Even the top cyclists had to put their feet to the ground to reach the summits... It's not surprising that they were treated like heroes upon arrival!
The Tour de France will be pulling out all stops for this celebration, one hundred years after this first stage ran through the Pyrenees, with no less than two ascents of the Col du Tourmalet scheduled, with the second ascent marking the arrival of a stage. Centenary celebrations will also be held in Ariège and Haute-Garonne, during the Revel>Ax 3 Domaines and Pamiers>Luchon stages. A wonderful show on the horizon!

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