So here goes..

Well I'm finally in the South of France ready and rearing to go. Em and I set off from Sussex at around 10am on Friday and finally made it to our hotel in Lourdes about 27 hours later following a night in a tent at the motorway services! Another 5 hours and we'd made the trip to Pau, registered, queued (for 2 hours!) for a Mavic bike tune up and were back in the hotel. I feel like I've already completed an endurance event!

I now have a belly full of pasta and other goodies, the bike is ready with number in place, the bib number is attached to my shirt and all clothing, bottles, gels and energy bars are laid out ready to go. The alarm will go off at 4:45am and all that will be left is to drive to Pau and start pedalling. Can't wait now.

The Pyrenees have yet to reveal themselves as they were shrouded in cloud today. However, the forecast is great for tomorrow (if hot!) and I'll have plenty of time to acquaint myself then.

To all my fellow Etapists - have a great ride. Bon courage!