My personal lantern rouge

My cycling obsession has had another unexpected consequence: a newfound appreciation for the excellence on display at the Tour de France.

The riding quality on the Tour is not “next-level stuff” for a Cat-7 rider like me.  It is not even next-next-next-next-next-next-level stuff.

So just how awesome is it?

The writers at CyclingTips had a cunning plan. Rather than following the race leaders, they are reporting on the lantern rouge, the name given to the rider at the back of the pack. (That’s lantern rouge, as in the red light at the back.)

Their tone is a blend of humour and respect, because most of us would be lucky to hold this guy’s rear wheel for a few seconds.

In fact, take a look at this; none of a group of serious, experienced riders based in Calgary could match the time of the lantern rouge on the first stage of the Tour, even when re-creating the stage conditions on a much easier local road.

"I'll quit when I fall off my bike"

I am reminded that:

• A little practical experience can transform your appreciation of greatness
• The road is long, so it’s perfectly ok to be pleased with consistent, novice progress
• Cycling is an analogy for everything

[Update, Stage 16]: To the right, pure inspiration for the next time I’m grinding up a hill –

[Update, Stage 17]: With Kenny now in hospital,  his words seem sadly prophetic …