Day 3 in the Alps and the FIreflies faced some of the toughest conditions of there lives. The Col D’Iseran, the second highest road pass in Europe at 2763m. Sideways snow, ice on the road and freezing temperatures and wind chill below -15C!
When the last of the riders came to the top the feeling of elation and achievement was amazing. But the Gendarmerie were at the top and we had to get off quick. The descent was treacherous and with no feeling in our hands the brakes became useless! Many of the riders took shelter where they could. In tunnels, shepherd huts and some just exposed on the side of the road with nowhere to go.
With bikes and riders stranded the support team relayed up and down the mountain to bring us all down. A great team effort meant that everyone was safe and the bikes retrieved. After a brief sojourn in a cafe we managed to warm up and continue with the ride.
For those that suffer we ride.
