For cyclists, the pinnacle of sport is not the Olympics. It’s the Tour de France.
Over 24 days, the runners traveled 3,350 kilometers each, the equivalent of the distance separating Montreal from Alberta.
They had to climb mountains, pedal in the heat wave and were only allowed three days without riding their bikes.
In short, it is an extremely demanding competition, hence its prestige in the sport.
As a cycling enthusiast, I can’t help but admire the athletes who participate.
This year, it was Hugo Houle, from the Israel–Premier Tech team, who caught my attention.
By winning the 16e stage of the Tour de France, Hugo became the first Quebecer to win a stage since the tour was created in 1903.
In Canada, it had happened only once, with Ontarian Steve Bauer, in 1988. Bauer is now the sporting director of Hugo’s Israel-Premier Tech team.
And 3350 kilometers later, Hugo ranked 24e. A Quebecer is the 24e cyclist in the world. It’s not nothing.
I must be very frank with you: I may be in good shape, but I wouldn’t be able to do the stages he did, even less in his time.
But following Hugo on television, seeing his victory in the 16e stage, I was able to get a glimpse of what it’s like to take part in this race.
Thank you for having me — for having made us dream, Hugo.