Parkinson’s UK is offering the opportunity to take on one of cycling’s toughest challenges, and there’s still time to sign up.
A regular feature on the Tour de France, Mont Ventoux is the largest mountain in Provence, France. Nicknamed the ‘Giant of Provence’ it stands 1,912 metres above sea level.
The Parkinson’s UK Ventoux³ challenge on Saturday 18 June, will see cyclists climb all routes of this notoriously inhospitable mountain, including Bédoin, the most famous and difficult ascent, in just one day. The gruelling triple ascent involves more climbing per kilometer than any existing sportive event – more than 50km over the 137km ride.
Those taking part will be following in the cycling tracks of Chris Froome, who became the first British cyclist to win the Tour de France in 2013.
Last year, participants included Game of Thrones actor Enzo Cilenti and his father Pietro. Conquering Ventoux 3 times in one day wasn’t enough for the pair who successfully completed the feat on a tandem.
One keen cyclist who has decided to test his nerves and stamina on Ventoux is Parkinson’s UK’s Director of Fundraising, Paul Jackson-Clark. Paul has strong family connections to Parkinson’s, which was all the motivation he needed to sign up. What will make Paul’s Ventoux³ attempt even more exceptional is the novel way he plans to power himself to the summit.
Paul comments, “I’m a passionate “Brommy” and cycle mine to work every day. Brompton are now very kindly donating an incredible cyan blue 6-speed model, specially modified for hill-climbing – I hope that includes mountains!”
Cyclists who complete the triple ascent become a member of the Club des Cinglés du Mont-Ventoux – The Mont Ventoux Madman Club.
There are a limited number of places left for Ventoux, and registration will close on April 1st.
For more information, please contact Sarah Collard on 0207 963 9305 or contact events@parkinsons.org.uk.
Leave a Reply