First proper day of the tour and most people look a bit shabby this morning – I think a few went ugly early last night.

Bathed in sunshine, beautiful French countryside – what could be better.

Lunch by the lake, and the 50 milers tucked into most of it!! A bit like the grand national – we had a few fallers, some horses with no riders and a few stars – especially the 17 people who beat their personal best for distance today.  Not so sure about the nine 80 milers that took a shortcut – now known as the 78 milers!

Tommo, Alec and Ray managed to get involved in a professional cycling race in Chantepie – some very confused marshals and riders but the boys were grateful for the clear ride into town. Darth Vader (Mike Smith) managed to get through the ride despite having to breathe through four orifices.

Thank to Paul for bringing a Kiwi garmin which caused absolute chaos, well done Joe for beating the work record sugar measurement with 26 (diabetics need to stay below seven) and Gary Teetotal Shedful Lewis managed to accumulate seven fines – all beetroot juice.

Hydration is key…..

Tommo needed a bit of a lie down!

Stretching / pole dancing with Stuart!

YMCA