A combination of many things, the most important being : long hours of training ( see a Coach or talk to a CCC rider) + a focused mind + the right riding kit ( “learn to layer”) + a well prepared bike + recovery skill + good fortune!

As you explore your physical limits you will discover a lot about yourself. This is partly due to spending much time on your own on long climbs, alone in your own space, but also due to the strong bonds created between riders. We can often help each other even without words. Others prefer company and chat. After a day or two, riders usually find a ‘ride-pal’ or two. We start stages together and we usually see most of the group at the feed stops, but re-grouping is not imposed, except for safety reasons.

The ethos of the events is based around encouraging self-sufficiency since instant vehicle back-up cannot be promised if weather takes a sudden turn for the worst at altitude. Our three vehicles look after your baggage, supply two roadside feed stops, and allow the mechanic to get to you if needed. After the ride, you look after yourself ( massage, stretching) : much pre-event advice is given on this.

Stages 1-3 are about finding your own sustainable pace and settling into that. Stop yourself pushing a bit more ‘because you feel good’. Stage 4 is the test stage : your body and mind might both start to wobble a bit. Stage 5 is all about getting to the Rest day. Stages 6-10 should be the reward if you have got through the first half. Severe fatigue may begin to set in; heartbeat may stay lower than usual. But self-belief and an intense sense of connection with your body and with the mountains will grow. Bonds with your co-riders will take on a new dimension.

Some riders will arrive at the hotel at 18.00hrs, others at 20.00hrs. Sometimes later. There is never a race. A mutual, bonding sense of respect grows within the group by which the fastest riders connect with the slowest. Each rider must find their pace, their space on the road. Faster riders often encourage slower ones earlier in the day. Diversity of ability is unavoidable but is never a problem. Average daily ride-pace will vary roughly from 18 to 26 km per hour.

Your adrenalin level goes up noticeably and training becomes easier! From January you will receive a monthly “advice bulletin”, covering pre-event topics such as training, your bike, clothing, nutrition, packing for and getting to the event, and on-event ones such as navigation, daily routine and off-bike personal admin.