Regular readers will be familiar with Mike Cotty’s astonishing exploits in the high mountains of Europe, but his latest challenge is demanding, even by Mike’s standards.
The RCUK columnist and Mavic ambassador, will roll out of Conegliano, Italy on Monday (August 4), riding in the shadow of Mont Blanc as he heads to Chamonix and onwards in a 1,000km ride punctuated with 21 mountains, and taking in some 23,000m of elevation.
Mike’s route will take in the Dolomites, Eastern Alps, and Swiss Alps back-to-back. His route will cover a veritable who’s who of iconic climbs, including the Giau, Falzarego, Pordoi, Stelvio, Gavia, Bernina, Splügen, San Bernadino, Oberalp, Gottard and Neufenen.
Mike’s new challenge follows his succesful ride last August across the Alps on a journey from Evian-les-Bains to Nice – a route tackled non-stop over 677km, which included 17 mountains and16,000m of climbing.
It comes hot on the heels of an attempt on the Tour du Mont Blanc record by fellow Mavic ambassador, Nicolas Roux. The Frenchman came close to breaking the record of 11 hours and 40 minutes for the 334km ride, which follows a route that includes five mountain passes in three countries, with 8000m of climbing. Only the most savage weather conditions prevented Roux, twice a winner of L’Etape du Tour, from breaking the record. You can read the full story here.
You’ll be able to follow Mike’s progress live, courtesy of the Map My Tracks App, and on Mavic’s Facebook and Twitter platforms.
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