Day 2: From the Global Cycling centre in Aigle to Monkey Town Lutry!

February 24, 2025:

Riding the track at the International Cycling Union in Aigle

It was an exciting start to a great day with Philippe Duperrex at the ICU Center Mondial du Cyclisme in Aigle, after a tea and talk it was business time when Tommy came over to tell us that Philippe Simon, my "track cycling coach", was ready to take me for a ride on the famous vélodrome! I did not know that "piste riding" comes from France... that is why the blue section at the bottom of the track is called the "Côte d'Azur" in all vélodromes around the world. This is a "bande d'arrêt d'urgence". The special bike with one gear and no breaks is designed for track riding with elevated pedals so they don't hit the wooden floor. You start riding on the flat section and gradually climb as you speed up. Speed is what allows you to stick to the track and not fall down. If you brake it is game over... you go down... not good.

With expert guidance from Philippe I was able to ride like a pro (albeit not as fast) in no time!!! An exhilarating experience that I wish every cyclist!

I made it from Aigle to Lutry just in time for a great lunch in good company at the Hotel-Rivage. It was a special day and I joined the team with Maria, Kelene and the boys to wish Alvaro "Feliz Cumpleaños" for his 30th birthday!