Honestly it was amazing. Having never ridden in the alps before It was such a fantastic way to experience the climbs, with an amazing team and people that know the area. The event felt like such a celebration, really encouraging support crews, and from the minute we landed at Geneva, to bike checks and daily stretching and of course alongside you on the roads.
All of the people taking part were really happy to be there. Whether you were cycling the Matterhorn (aka Rosé route), Kili or Everest, there were no egos or bike snobbery, everyone was there to have fun. And when you’re surrounded by pro athletes and Tour de France competitors to have a natter to on the way up the climbs it makes it quite a surreal experience.
Big Mountain Challenge was the most fun thing I did all year on two wheels with the most awesome group of people imaginable. I'm doing it again this year. Come and join us, I promise you won’t regret it!
I took part in the Everest cycle in 2019 and can only describe it as being 100% the definite highlight of my year. Having the support of Mavic, High 5, Chain Reaction made it so much easier. People really pushed themselves and supported each other, excellent organisation and a relaxed, friendly atmosphere with awe inspiring scenery and incredible Tour de France climbs. I really can’t rate it highly enough, 10/10!
Four days, 299km and it was fun from start to finish, and more importantly it was all for a great cause. I’m a newbie to cycling but everyone on the Big Mountain Challenge made me feel welcome. As soon as I crossed the line I signed myself up for next year!
I was a total cycling newbie when I did BMC in 2019. I’d never ridden in the mountains before .. the longest ride I’d done was London - Brighton when i was at school about 30 years ago!! But the BMC “rose route” pace actually proved generally comfortable (okay, mostly!) and always adapted to the needs of the group.
Getting to the top of Le Semnoz was a proud and emotional moment, and I couldn’t have done it without Gaby (guide rider) by my side, smiling and shouting words of encouragement, and the banging tunes from Rob and the tour van :). The whole event included a big range of abilities, which made it accessible and fun whatever your ability and experience. Another big plus of the rose route was the excellent mountain restaurant lunches at the top of the climbs.
Combined with the wonderful team camaraderie and spectacular views, it all made for a brilliant few days. The support for the rides and organisation of the event were also incredible..such a privilege to enjoy that support as a newcomer, and also very reassuring. I would thoroughly recommend the experience, even if you have not cycled in the mountains before. It’s a few days I won’t forget.
Big Mountain Challenge: such happy memories. One of the BEST experiences of my life!!