BBOX training camp in the volcanoes of France

Time flies!!! 3rd day of camp in Parentignac, the ancient volcanic region of France. South of Clermont Ferrand and right next to Issoire wherever we ride too from here we have long gradual climbs to cover. The boys arrived on wednsday morning and right after lunch we went to test the terrain. Long stretches resemble the far west of the US, colorado mountains with gorgeous tall pine trees lining the roads....We covered 110kms with over 1500m of +elevation...
Yesterday we went out and did threshold rides on the flats 2x20' and in the afternoon we returned to cover 110kms more + elevation. Today was strength work on an 11km climb twice and tomorrow we'll cover 200kms with 3300m of +elevation. The best day so far, especially after the TTT tuesday in the tour, 4 bikechanges, 3 flats, and a crash was wednsday...we were 10kms from the finish of our ride and the radio blasted out that Thomas' group had regained 1 minute it had lost several kms earlier. the boys were all riding next to the car with all of us euphoric that Thomas Voeckler was in the front and very capable of winning. Igniatiev took off, was bought back, took off again and as soon as Thomas came and went we were beside ourselves! We rode in suspense with the car radio screaming, us holding our breath until Thomas crossed the line his arms raised so high. We finished the ride smiling, proud, and hoping that another rider will play the same song again soon!
cheers for now
marion