Ever since I created my race calendar in winter, the Haute Route has always been that "big adventures" been in the back of my mind. A week of just cycling, the most difficult mountain stages, across the Alps, in any weather, armed only with a bike and backpack to experience this premiere with 500 other crazy people - the first thought of it gave me goosebumps!
My partner Mavic, as one of the main sponsors, gave me the opportunity to take part in the Haute Route. As at the Tour de France, Mavic follows the tour entourage and helps the starters with all material-related matters. That was my only support - but the Mavic guys had to take care of 500 starters - not just me! That's why it was just as big a challenge for me all around as matching myself with the competition on the 17 mountains!
I traveled to Venice on Thursday, so I still had time to mentally prepare myself, because the Haute Route was one of the hardest races I've started in so far. I was nervous and a good placement at the beginning was very important to me. I managed this perfectly when I was able to break away decisively before arriving at the Gavia Pass and was able to win the first part of the day.
On the 2nd stage through the Dolomites, I was able to conserve my strength to attack again on the following queen stage. This time already 80 kilometers before the finish with two passes still in mind. At Passo Tonale, being chased by my pursuers, I gave everything, desperately wanting to defend the stage win at Gavia Pass and my lead. I gave 110 percent up to the last kilometer, until I got the information that my pursuers had given up. Victory was certain and I was overwhelmed.
Rain and cold during the time trial on the Stelvio Pass couldn't slow me down, just like him
View of the next difficult mountain stages in Switzerland. Another day's victory and even more self-confidence were the successes of the day. I was able to rest a little for the next three stages, peppered with climbs. From here on, the route was no longer familiar to me and an even better perspective awaited me around every corner.
With temperatures below zero and fog but dry, we continued over the most beautiful passes in Switzerland: Julier, Oberalp and Furka passes, just to name a few. Also on stage 5 I had the best legs and fastest times on the climbs. On the 6th day, my opponents took their revenge, but despite a long solo chase I saved second place at the finish in Crans Montana. The rest suffered for the attack and ended up far behind in the classification.
The last stage – the freestyle to Geneva! My goal was to give my friend Roman the best possible support and to shake off as many riders as possible with him on the rear wheel. No sooner said than done - Roman fought like a lion and, after my preparation, won the stage with ease - his biggest success so far!
The Haute Route was an experience for all starters! Weather, circumstances and shared passion made many friendships and created lasting memories. Thank you to everyone who helped me and made my start possible! Actually intended as a preparation, the victory is like a gift for me - in front of Mavic's eyes - a great satisfaction and great relief after a difficult season so far.
