Cyc'd European Tour 2014 - Day 4 the "Rest" Day

Today was our rest day so after a bit of a late start of course we got back on the bikes for an amble out to a lake for a bit of relaxation. As it wasn't a formal ride day we all broke out our fashion kits. Flynn took out kit for the day with the Deadkooks Attaquer kit. 

I thought (being a rest day) I wouldn't have to write about today but turns out there was still plenty of riding to be done. First up there was discussion of a TT course the Embrace Sports guys had setup around the lake. After some strava stalking the course was discovered and the goals set. 

The ride out to the lake was picturesque just like every other ride in France with rolling hills and sprawling countryside. Of course being in the French countryside there was still plenty of climbing to be done. In fact the first turn out of the chateau put us into a climb the equivalent of the backside of Mount Cootha, just to start the day. 

Once at the lake we split into a few groups. There were those who wanted to relax and soak up the sun while they caught up on some important reading. 

The rest of the riders headed out for a recon lap of the lake TT course.

After a recon lap the sensible ones stopped for coffee while Matt, Craig and Stephen took on the TT course. 

The 3 boys buried themselves on a windy day to post some amazing times and coming in 3rd, 5th and 6th on road bikes. 

We all stopped back at the cafe for burgers before enjoying the the hospitality of the lake. Of course as most of us are all crazy cyclists a few of us headed out to check out the TT course a few times. 

Of course RJB went out for a solo lap and decided that the 14km wasn't quite long enough so decided to extend it down to the local town :)

We headed back to the chateau through town for some supplies at the local bike shop. The night was a little subdued although Flynn did decide to practice his bike handling skills before heading out to another mountain tomorrow. 

Today is our last night at the chateau as we head out in the road to tackle some if the higher French peaks. 

Tomorrow is our longest ride, finishing with the Col du Aravis (and another chance to take out Col du Couz) 

Thursday: 

Green Socks -> after heaps of nominations Stephen for time trialling himself pale on a rest day

Pink Socks -> Matt for smashing the TT in the wind and getting 3rd overall on a road bike.