Fancy riding the toughest stages of next year's Tour de France? If the answer's "Oui!", act fast - the final few Taster packages on next year's Tour de Force are now on sale.
If you haven't yet heard, Tour de Force is a unique cycling challenge that allows amateur cyclists to ride the exact route of every stage of the Tour de France each year, a week ahead of the real thing. Riders can choose to do the whole Tour - known as 'Lifers' - or pick from a number of shorter 'Taster' packages offering between two and ten stages.
It's a formidable challenge, with a typical stage being at least 100 miles long and packing enough climbing to satisfy the strongest grimpeurs. Even a so-called flat sprinters' stage will often feature 1500 - 2000 metres of ascent - but the good news is that riders are fully supported with feed stations and mechanical support all the way, along with ample opportunity to enjoy the stunning scenery over a coffee en route.
The 2017 Tour de Force will start in Dusseldorf on Saturday 24th June and will end 21 stages and 3,516km of cycling later in Paris on Sunday 16th July.
All the 2017 Lifer places have now sold out, but that doesn't mean you can't take part - there are still a limited number of Taster places left. So whether you fancy tackling some epic cols in 'Southern Climber's Week' - riding stages 12-18 through the Pyrenees and Alps - or just a special weekend in the south of France on stages 10 and 11, there's sure to be a package for everyone.
Prices start at £460 and include accommodation and top-class meals and feed stops. Riders also have to commit to a fundraising target: Tour de Force is organised to raise money for the William Wates Memorial Trust, a charity that helps disadvantaged youths. The result is a uniquely rewarding experience that lets cyclists indulge in the challenge of a lifetime, while helping others at the same time.
For more information on the Taster packages available, and to sign up for your chance to ride the Tour, visit www.tourdeforce.org.uk.
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