“There is no drop bag service and there were no energy bars.” This is true, but randonneuring is meant to be self supported and it’s not meant to be a race. I did it in 2019 and was given advice to not use drop bags and to get food / water in between controls. Your pace was phenomenal, but I think the ride organizers are more concerned with the 99% of riders just worried about finishing, not finishing first.
I have never taken part in anything big like this but I always thought that in a self supported event, any outside assistance is forbidden by rule? If it is secetly done by all the leading athletes that diminishes their effort greatly imho since planning the food and water gathering is part of the achievement. Your pace was phenomenal though!@@MattPage
@@MattPage Thinking about this again I agree with you. This morning when I watched the vid, you highlighted what is a subtle nuance being someone (yourself) wanting to finish first (top ten)? Against someone (others) who are riding the brevet as it should be ridden, and that is to get around under their own power being self sufficient - in essence what an audax is. On this note I think it was naïve of yourself to believe that there would not be an issue with your drop bag, when the people in charge of said drop bags would not be aware that any one who was using their drop bag service would be looking to get around at speed. Because all people should be doing is just looking to get around which is what a brevet is ridden for. And it's on the above point that I agree with you. Brevets are all about self sufficiency and getting around and providing that controls are well stocked there should be be no need for outside help. And those that want to get around at speed - crack on. FWIW LEL 2025, it has been announced no outside assistance at all, it's to be banned. Chapeau on the effort, I also agree that PBP as a route is boring, what attracts people is the history of the event (second oldest cycling event in history first run in 1891 as a pro ride). The cycling heritage around that region, the Badger (Hinault comes from a town about 50k north of Loudeac). And the locals, of which you had first hand experience in the vid riding through that village where everyone was out cheering you on. Not uncommon to get a lot of people out on the route day and night doing this. Chapeau again.
@@MattPageEveryone having the same is quite important. If it is a race. It is a thought provoking experience. Agonising for you, given your goals. Maybe I think having a go at the scenery is bit of a low blow, given that the event dates from the era of single speed bikes and any hill after 300km is a big hill. And maybe I love France and French and the French as much as I love bikes, and it is such a big festival of all that, that for me just being fit enough to go to that party would be a joy. But I understand what you were trying to do. From other stuff besides bicycles I recognise a bit of my own psychology in your DNF. That if a thing is worth doing it is worth doing well, and perfectionists don't go through hell for just OK. Would it be fair to say you entered the PBP in the hopes of recording a good time? With that lost, was it difficult to find a completely different motivation half way round? Just enjoy it, like you proposed to camera, was never going to stick with you and PBP, it might seem. When I rode Mont Ventoux (from Dieppe) I can't imagine what seeing it as a competition might have done to my head, and my capacity for distance, for enjoying it, and as a result of that, for going quick. I was awed by your LEL vid. PBP must be so much a bigger party, the atmosphere. Partly just numbers, roadside enthusiasts, public support. But also prestige, excitement, myth, history, the build up. The fact it was once, in the past, a race. Do you think PBP being A Big Thing is part of why you set out so quickly? Maybe the lack of big crowds or anything suggesting Alpe d'Huez on the LEL is also an asset for you, in doing a fast time, given how much psychology enters into stuff. Language and foreign parts. Were you well rested before the départ? Those supported riders that you tried to keep up with from the start, and so much effected how many matches you burned early on, do you know how many of them finished?
I admire your honesty Matt but I get the impression for all the prep you did that not enough time was spent on the actual event. I take your point about the monotonous roads and scenery but the route profile shouldn’t come as a surprise. Neither should the lack of bag drops. Although there is an unofficial race element to PBP ultimately these events aren’t setup for racing and for people to set fast times so I don’t think it’s fair to complain if the controls/organisation don’t play to that. I think they do a good job given the huge volume of riders and I never had to wait for a bed or queue too long for food despite catching the main bunch of riders around Brest after starting on Monday morning. LEL has a quarter of the riders and a longer course ensuring a greater spread. I’m sorry it didn’t work out for you but I think you’ve also missed out on what makes the event special, which is the way it’s so embraced by the locals and you are cheered on from start to finish. The thing that hit me when I got back to the car this morning was how quiet it was for the first time since I rolled out.
When you look at the profile, it looks "spikey" and I know the m/km is more than LEL, so I expected some hills, but it didn't feel like that. And the issue is not lack of bag drop, but how poor the company who provided it were, and I know I am not alone in thinking that. There needs to be more consistency. In some controls you pay more for food, and limited choice, but others they have huge choice and its much cheaper. The queue for hot food at Loudec was quite long, so I went for the basic options instead. As I say in the end, the support is great, and that section rolling through the crowd was very memorable, and the general support beats anything we have here.
Interesting. This was my first PBP and I thought the organisation was spectacular, especially considering there were over 6000 starters. I had heard horror stories about queueing for stamps and places and beds but none of that happened to me. The amount of climbing is roughly 1000m per 100km so that's also typical for brevets. I found the scenery beautiful rolling hills. No significant climbs though.
Maybe we saw things a different way. There seems to be a lack of co-ordination between stations, with some having different things, charging different prices. Pre-event the information and available, and the content on the website is shocking, and hopefully you would agree with that? The volunteers were brilliant, but perhaps just someone to ensure each has similar offering.
@MattPage I totally agree that it was impossible to predict what would be available at each station. This is one reason I also went with the drop bag option. But that went wonky for me for other reasons. Really enjoyed your video BTW. Interesting to see how it works at the pointy end of the field.
I guess it really depends where you come from. I found the road never to be flat and boring. For me it felt like a climb after a climb, with only the start and end having a bit more flatter sections. But I live in a country where most climbs are only a few hundred meters long, if you're lucky to find a climb at all. I think the main reason to take part of the event is the atmosphere and other riders from all over the world you can meet on the road. I managed to form some nice partnerships along the way. It was an experience like no other. Definitely the hardest ride I've ever done, but also the most memorable.
I'm glad you enjoyed it. I can see how it could be enjoyable for some perhaps. I've been fortunate to have ridden many places around the World, and it doesn't rank anywhere near the top - for me.
Hi Matt, I have followed your series and others who provide great info and their own personal goals, information and experiences. Sorry you are so deflated. I completed PBP (68 hours) and do agree the really fast start the first water break was nuts, with literally 2 taps and loads of riders at the same time. I had a great overall experience, but didn't have the lofty goals (first 1200 km ride for me and first PBP) that you had. The best control was Villaines on the way back where I was greeted by 100s of people ans school children who chaperoned me to get food. I also has stomach issues on the way to Mortgane (return to Paris). I stopped at a small hut with 5/6 locals who took great care of me. They gave me a deck chair to sleep on for an hour. I was in a bad way at that moment. The locals along the route was hugely supportive and a real pleasure. You are clearly super strong and it makes sense how deflated you are and the problems staying with the front group who has support. As BradleyDean said; its the other 99% who are in a different league that the event is focused on. I have enjoyed your videos and glad you are sharing the highs and lows. I hope you spirit bounces back quickly!
Maybe it's just the way the French can be "c'est la vie". Areas such as the website, pre-event info and getting answers to questions are areas that need improvement. It might be a historical event, but some areas need to move forward.
Thanks for being so transparent and for making a video despite it not going your way! Really appreciate it 👍 We briefly spoke when you dropped off your drop bag on Saturday. I mentioned that I use conventional sugar and it worked well again. You can buy 1kg bags in supermarkets and then carry that with you and dissolve it in your drinking water. Works well for me 🙂 All in all, I agree with everything you said regarding PBP. Was definitely my first and last time here but looking forward to LEL 2025 already again!
I feel for you. I was the Aussie guy chatting to you on the start line. Once that voice in your head starts saying “what the hell are you doing” it is very hard to keep going, particularly if the event isn’t going to plan. Chapeau for the video with the raw emotions. It’s not failure. It’s experience. Bravo!
These are all fair and honest points, Matt. Sorry it didn't work out on this occasion. Will continue to enjoy your videos, and look forward to happier adventures for you in future!
Good work Matt, can totally understand how sometimes things get a bit boring! It’s nice to have your opinion on it as I feel lots of people like to justify racing big events like this regardless of their quality just to get their Strava kudos or Instagram likes.
Yeah you’re gonna need a support car for a fast time here, that’s quite traditional but doesn’t mean unsupported riders haven’t been in the first few back in the past. Thanks for recording your thoughts
I know the 2019 fastest was unsupported, so it is possible. Maybe he was experienced, and knew what to expect? I think riders can learn a lot from their first attempt if they want to ride unsupported.
Pretty honest summary Matt, looks like you could ace the ride and I know how you feel abandoning as I did the same at Dreux on the way back on my last go. However you said you did a lot of prep pre-ride but the route is well known and I am surprised that you didn't seem to know that it is a pretty flat ride and that it is meant to be self-supported. Yes the Vedettes have support at controls but they are the minority, everything else about the ride is advertised in advance, LEL is different but so is every ride. I do agree that the French support this event much better than anywhere else. I would suggest that the flatness is part of the history i.e. this was a pro ride in the beginning and often motor-paced, why you didn't research the route wasn't clear. But well done on an honest opinion of 2023 PBP
I think you were in the wrong place, PBP is a big party where you're supposed to make friends along the way and really enjoy yourself, if you want to race you need support otherwise you stand no chance and, in the end, will be hugely disappointed. Hard not to find monotonous roads on a mostly flat route but people don't do PBP for the scenery. I liked your video and your honesty about how you felt. ciao.
This comes across as being an honest review of your "race" with some nice reflection at the end of what went wrong. Theres no point in slogging on when your not enjoying yourself, so your decision to pull the plug when you did, seems like a sensible one. As with all non sucessful endevours, its a learning point from which to come back stronger for the next one.
Those hiccups could be hypoglycemia, although I saw your prep and the PH gels/chews should have taken care of that. But then if the gut wrench issues caused acid reflux then that can also cause hiccups. I'd take a packet with you of Gaviscon/Pepto at certain times to see if it helps. Also, avoid any high fibre foods, that shuts the gut process down taking in sugars. I'd also try to take on more solids (bars) for as long as possible before using gels. So eg. 3 bars in the hr but 1gel. I find my long rides it took more training to get the gut right and the riding was the easy part! Chapeau on getting there though.
I'm looking at all options, and I did read that, but I don't think it is hypoglycemia. I'm good at eating - up until it happens - so it's almost the opposite. It has happened 3 times, every one ~18hrs into a big event/challenge. One was just gels/chews, another just "normal" food, and this was gels/chews to ~10hrs, and a mix beyond that. I'm going to look into my medication more, and see if that could have some possible effect, as I never had gut issues before, and it has only started happening since things have changed.
Really gutted for you after seeing you put in all the effort and planning. I also DNF'd after Loudeac - couldn't keep any food down which made me lose my focus and motivation. Even up to that point I wasn't really enjoying it - in a way I'm glad you had similar reflections on the event (although I was simply aiming to get round rather than setting a good time like you). Fingers crossed the next event goes better for you.
Thanks for sharing, interesting to hear. I guess to a certain extent you can either try and ride it fast/go for a time/stay with leading groups, or ride it to enjoy it, but not necessarily both at the same time - but admirable that you at least made the effort to switch from one to the other. In my view, no shame whatsoever in packing if you’re not enjoying it - as a friend of mine says ‘we’re not playing for a row of houses’. If you like scenery you might like mille du sud (1000km), I think it is still running every year. It’s definitely harder to finish in time than PBP in my opinion. I’ve done it, once, back in 2012.
That could be a fair assessment, but normally I'd be fine to just roll by if the riding was more enjoyable. I've been given a few events to look at now, but I will add that to the list too. I love France, and the Alps, but haven't much in the south.
Sorry to hear about how it turned out. Even though the sport is branded as self-supported, mass participation events will always require strong official support and logistics, lest the local infrastructure and services get completely overwhelmed. When those expectations aren't met, it compounds how heat, exhaustion, and stomach problems can tint things negatively. Curious about the experiences of those mid-pack and at the tail end of things compares to yours. Looking forward to following along with your future events.
From the video section at Loudec, you can get some ideas. I had more photos and videos I hadn't used, but it wasn't well organised at all. Huge numbers must have been expected there, but it wasn't coping well.
Sorry to see this Matt as I have really enjoyed the build up to this and your journey. You are still working things through and everything is raw but I am sure you will be back in four years time, and would of gained much from this.I am sure next time you will achieve your goal well.
I agree with you Matt that the controls were so varied. You never knew what you were going to get. For me in mid pack that's just inconvenient for guys like you up at the front it means you can't plan and as you say have to have support. It seems like each control operates in a vacuum and that they don't share best practice or ways of working. People rave about the organisation of PBP but it can't hold a candle to LEL (which by the look of things will raise the bar still further in 2025). I enjoyed your honest review! Be interested in seeing what you do next.
Great honest video. Shame about all of the unfortunate uncontrollable events but well done to you for finding the grit to still chase the lead groups after the mishaps! Also knowing when to call it. All the best fella 👍
A lot of people care more about the idea of cycling an ultra-distance than being surrounded with beautiful landscapes. Or they'll lie to themselves and build conviction it was worth it. I've yet to see a photo of the PBP that makes me think: "this is beautiful I want to go".
Well done for trying. I'm surprised that you were surprised that the route was flat? Maybe if you'd managed to keep up with the leading group it would have all seemed different. Thanks for your view on what I think is a great event.
When you look at the profile, it doesn't have many flat areas, but I should have looked more at the maximum elevation. Someone said it has more climbing per km than LEL, although I find that hard to believe. But they were my biggest reasons for expecting more hills.
I recommend the Italian 1200 Transalp or the German 1200 which also goes over the Alps. The scenery is breathtaking all the time plus nice climbing. Small events but lots of supply options along the way. Few of the Italians spoke English but no language barriers at the German event.
Is the German 1200 you're referring to run by ARA München? I've been riding their events for years. The routes are superb. But they are 100% self supported. The 1200 route looks beautiful. Was added for the first time this year.
Thanks for putting this out, and sorry it didn't work out the way you wanted. I've done PBP but never fancied LEL because I just didn't like the idea of so much distance with our tender British drivers! Maybe I got it backwards...
The boring roads would kill me. If was in a good mixed group of friends I could make up for the monotony but I can’t say this event excites me enough. The long distance aspect is interesting but even then the terrain is not interesting enough for me. Well done on getting through.
A fair assessment Matt. The event is an emotional experience for many riders and as such it is rare to get an objective report. I think you have described some of the negatives of the event. It is an ambiguous affair inasmuch as being a race or a tour. We chatted on the train back to Rambouilllet. The volunteers are amazing and as long as there are no exceptional events the system works. Out of the ordinary events and it gets very messy. I thought the controls were chaos, facilities poorly signposted. The drop bag service provided by a third party organisation was frankly disgraceful and a rip off. That reflected poorly in my opinion on the organisation. The LEL is by a magnitude better organised.
Love your videos Matt. Shame about how this one went. I was really excited to see how you got on when I saw you were riding it, after I watched your LEL video. Just out of curiosity what do you use to film yourself on the bike? Is it a Go Pro with a handle? Keep up the good work, looking forward to your next adventure 👍
Your review confirms my own feelings. I’ve only ever done bikepacking races. I thought I was strange that I don’t care about PBP despite its popularity. The event rests on its history. Whether they run it well or not, people will still show up. I prefer 100% self reliant. If things go wrong, it’s my fault or at least it’s my responsibility. I’m gutted for you that things outside your control ruined all the work you put in to do this ride.
I am fortunate as the riding I have at home is much more scenic. Until Brest it was very bland. But the drivers were good, and the road surfaces are also excellent.
I always thought Paris Brest Paris was historically the longest self supported group ride. I haven't ridden it. I didn't know about the supported racing aspect.
Sorry to hear this Matt - I myself had to abandon from heat stroke (started Monday morning so had the full day in the heat and things got pretty dodgy for me) My wife and father-in-law volunteered at the control in Loudeac and were pretty scathing about the lack of organisation there. Sounds like it was absolute chaos. I'll be back for 2027 to finish but definitely hear you re: LEL, WAWA and others. Thanks for the fab videos. Joe
It was scorching hot! I struggled out of Brest, despite going easier by then. I had to divert off route to find a shop and get more water, and I'm sure others would have struggled too.
For most people, the satisfaction is ‘just’ in finishing and the ambiance of the villages. The route is (or was) rolling rather than flat but agreed not very interesting. If you want scenery, get into the hills and mountains. Having support crews doesn’t really seem to be in the spirit of being self-reliant. I can’t comment on disorganisation at any of the controls but that was not my experience in an earlier edition. The food available was fine for its purpose, to fuel long distance riding. But racing requirements may differ. Personally I hate energy gels and the like but each to their own.
I appreciate everyone is different, and just like the shot coming through the village, some areas the support is brilliant. That alone wouldn't be enough to get me back though.
What you say about the route is true for a fast rider. It doesn't feel quite so flat if you're not so fast or riding something that isn't a standard road bike. You're right that you need support to be fastest, otherwise you can still be very fast unsupported if you know how it all works but you still won't be able to match fully supported riders aiming to be fastest. Getting Butler and John Warnock tried in different years and were hampered as well. I agree that the route isn't special but I think it's quite nice. It's the atmosphere that makes the ride. You got the best of the crowds being in the front bunch. They lose some enthusiasm after several thousand riders have been through. You was probably too far ahead of the main bulge of PBP, so I am guessing you wasn't riding in a constant flow of cyclists of all kinds. That's a big part of the fun for me. I doubt I would ever want to just ride the route but I do like riding the event and not as a race. Maybe I will go for a fast time one time, but I know that unless I have a good support crew, even if I am fast enough, it's unlikely I will be first finisher. Maybe enter a bikepacking race if you want to race? Sounds to me like you'd enjoy those a lot.
I can't remember if there was a small group of ~10 ahead at the time, or if I was the very first through the crowd - but wow! A few seconds glimpse of what a TdF Alpe d'Huez stage must be like. As much as I would love to see what would be possible with a fully supported attempt, the time it has taken from normal life this year, I wouldn't bother in the future.
@@MattPage I agree. Unless you ride a lot of Audax anyway, PBP is a bit of a ball ache, considering you usually just pay the entry fee and turn up for most events. It used to be even worse before on line entry.
I do several a year, but finding a mix of not being able to drive and relying upon public transport, plus having to find the BRM events within set dates. It has meant more time away from the family than I would have liked. All the events have been good though, mostly local which has meant great roads (I am biased 😄).
@@MattPage You're backed into a corner in SW Wales. That doesn't make it easy to get to events. I ride to them but I live in probably the best place in the country for that and it does take time.
I usually watch the PBP on the road between Plumieux and the long straight stretch that goes to La Cheze before arriving at the Loudeac control where I spent my school years. This year the route was different and less interesting on this stretch of road. My friends, with the heat you must have suffered and the withdrawals are logical. I live in the south of Morbihan and 4 young people were taking part. I love this world-famous race, and it's a shame the Russians weren't there, as politics should never interfere with sport in general. Kenavo
Flat? Flat? There were no mountains but it was relentless hills all the way up down up down. I agree that LEL is a better event though. Food was crap at the controls and the food options in rural villages was terrible. Roadside support in villages made the event. Audax is not a race- not in the spirit of the event.
Strictly speaking is not an Audax. It is a timed event, unlike most other similar events, so there will be competition. But no winner, no prizes, no podium.
@ConcertGrande there was at least one Russian... he kept everyone else awake by his snoring in the "couchage" tent at Gouarec on the way back ! Probably not one of the faster ones you were thinking of.
Rode tandem 1991 with wife, even then the disparity of those with little (us none really) and MUCH was obvious. At some point it is impossible to just take pride and enjoyment in HOW you did it and not just feel you did it with to much handicap.
I agree with your last 4 minutes. PBP has the history and the crowds but in every other way, I much prefered LEL. I did PBP because it would be rude not to, but I wouldnt do it again. Actually I doubt I'd find the will. Luckily, there are many other 1200k rides out there.
MM is very good (but perhaps not the first 400km of flat or last 400 if they reverse the route as I heard they might) Organisation seemed a bit quirky when I rode about a decade ago. Some controls you're well looked after, others, not so much... Bristol Glasgow Bristol is the hardest Audax I have ridden. Some off road in that one which isn't for everyone but I thought the route was very good.
“There is no drop bag service and there were no energy bars.” This is true, but randonneuring is meant to be self supported and it’s not meant to be a race. I did it in 2019 and was given advice to not use drop bags and to get food / water in between controls. Your pace was phenomenal, but I think the ride organizers are more concerned with the 99% of riders just worried about finishing, not finishing first.
Actually I agree with you, or at least to a point. I think everyone should have the same, so no support crews, or pre-planed roadside assistance.
I have never taken part in anything big like this but I always thought that in a self supported event, any outside assistance is forbidden by rule? If it is secetly done by all the leading athletes that diminishes their effort greatly imho since planning the food and water gathering is part of the achievement. Your pace was phenomenal though!@@MattPage
Good point. Agree there should be no support for anyone, otherwise it's not an equal baseline.
@@MattPage Thinking about this again I agree with you.
This morning when I watched the vid, you highlighted what is a subtle nuance being someone (yourself) wanting to finish first (top ten)? Against someone (others) who are riding the brevet as it should be ridden, and that is to get around under their own power being self sufficient - in essence what an audax is. On this note I think it was naïve of yourself to believe that there would not be an issue with your drop bag, when the people in charge of said drop bags would not be aware that any one who was using their drop bag service would be looking to get around at speed. Because all people should be doing is just looking to get around which is what a brevet is ridden for.
And it's on the above point that I agree with you. Brevets are all about self sufficiency and getting around and providing that controls are well stocked there should be be no need for outside help. And those that want to get around at speed - crack on.
FWIW LEL 2025, it has been announced no outside assistance at all, it's to be banned.
Chapeau on the effort, I also agree that PBP as a route is boring, what attracts people is the history of the event (second oldest cycling event in history first run in 1891 as a pro ride). The cycling heritage around that region, the Badger (Hinault comes from a town about 50k north of Loudeac). And the locals, of which you had first hand experience in the vid riding through that village where everyone was out cheering you on. Not uncommon to get a lot of people out on the route day and night doing this.
Chapeau again.
@@MattPageEveryone having the same is quite important. If it is a race. It is a thought provoking experience.
Agonising for you, given your goals. Maybe I think having a go at the scenery is bit of a low blow, given that the event dates from the era of single speed bikes and any hill after 300km is a big hill. And maybe I love France and French and the French as much as I love bikes, and it is such a big festival of all that, that for me just being fit enough to go to that party would be a joy. But I understand what you were trying to do.
From other stuff besides bicycles I recognise a bit of my own psychology in your DNF. That if a thing is worth doing it is worth doing well, and perfectionists don't go through hell for just OK. Would it be fair to say you entered the PBP in the hopes of recording a good time? With that lost, was it difficult to find a completely different motivation half way round? Just enjoy it, like you proposed to camera, was never going to stick with you and PBP, it might seem. When I rode Mont Ventoux (from Dieppe) I can't imagine what seeing it as a competition might have done to my head, and my capacity for distance, for enjoying it, and as a result of that, for going quick.
I was awed by your LEL vid. PBP must be so much a bigger party, the atmosphere. Partly just numbers, roadside enthusiasts, public support. But also prestige, excitement, myth, history, the build up. The fact it was once, in the past, a race. Do you think PBP being A Big Thing is part of why you set out so quickly? Maybe the lack of big crowds or anything suggesting Alpe d'Huez on the LEL is also an asset for you, in doing a fast time, given how much psychology enters into stuff. Language and foreign parts. Were you well rested before the départ?
Those supported riders that you tried to keep up with from the start, and so much effected how many matches you burned early on, do you know how many of them finished?
I admire your honesty Matt but I get the impression for all the prep you did that not enough time was spent on the actual event. I take your point about the monotonous roads and scenery but the route profile shouldn’t come as a surprise. Neither should the lack of bag drops.
Although there is an unofficial race element to PBP ultimately these events aren’t setup for racing and for people to set fast times so I don’t think it’s fair to complain if the controls/organisation don’t play to that. I think they do a good job given the huge volume of riders and I never had to wait for a bed or queue too long for food despite catching the main bunch of riders around Brest after starting on Monday morning. LEL has a quarter of the riders and a longer course ensuring a greater spread.
I’m sorry it didn’t work out for you but I think you’ve also missed out on what makes the event special, which is the way it’s so embraced by the locals and you are cheered on from start to finish. The thing that hit me when I got back to the car this morning was how quiet it was for the first time since I rolled out.
When you look at the profile, it looks "spikey" and I know the m/km is more than LEL, so I expected some hills, but it didn't feel like that.
And the issue is not lack of bag drop, but how poor the company who provided it were, and I know I am not alone in thinking that.
There needs to be more consistency. In some controls you pay more for food, and limited choice, but others they have huge choice and its much cheaper. The queue for hot food at Loudec was quite long, so I went for the basic options instead.
As I say in the end, the support is great, and that section rolling through the crowd was very memorable, and the general support beats anything we have here.
Interesting. This was my first PBP and I thought the organisation was spectacular, especially considering there were over 6000 starters. I had heard horror stories about queueing for stamps and places and beds but none of that happened to me. The amount of climbing is roughly 1000m per 100km so that's also typical for brevets. I found the scenery beautiful rolling hills. No significant climbs though.
Maybe we saw things a different way. There seems to be a lack of co-ordination between stations, with some having different things, charging different prices. Pre-event the information and available, and the content on the website is shocking, and hopefully you would agree with that? The volunteers were brilliant, but perhaps just someone to ensure each has similar offering.
@MattPage I totally agree that it was impossible to predict what would be available at each station. This is one reason I also went with the drop bag option. But that went wonky for me for other reasons. Really enjoyed your video BTW. Interesting to see how it works at the pointy end of the field.
Maybe chill a bit and just enjoy?
That's exactly what I attempted, and soon got bored. I get no enjoyment from riding slowly, unless the scenery and roads are worth it.
I guess it really depends where you come from. I found the road never to be flat and boring. For me it felt like a climb after a climb, with only the start and end having a bit more flatter sections. But I live in a country where most climbs are only a few hundred meters long, if you're lucky to find a climb at all.
I think the main reason to take part of the event is the atmosphere and other riders from all over the world you can meet on the road. I managed to form some nice partnerships along the way.
It was an experience like no other. Definitely the hardest ride I've ever done, but also the most memorable.
I'm glad you enjoyed it. I can see how it could be enjoyable for some perhaps. I've been fortunate to have ridden many places around the World, and it doesn't rank anywhere near the top - for me.
Hi Matt, I have followed your series and others who provide great info and their own personal goals, information and experiences.
Sorry you are so deflated. I completed PBP (68 hours) and do agree the really fast start the first water break was nuts, with literally 2 taps and loads of riders at the same time.
I had a great overall experience, but didn't have the lofty goals (first 1200 km ride for me and first PBP) that you had. The best control was Villaines on the way back where I was greeted by 100s of people ans school children who chaperoned me to get food.
I also has stomach issues on the way to Mortgane (return to Paris). I stopped at a small hut with 5/6 locals who took great care of me. They gave me a deck chair to sleep on for an hour. I was in a bad way at that moment. The locals along the route was hugely supportive and a real pleasure.
You are clearly super strong and it makes sense how deflated you are and the problems staying with the front group who has support. As BradleyDean said; its the other 99% who are in a different league that the event is focused on.
I have enjoyed your videos and glad you are sharing the highs and lows. I hope you spirit bounces back quickly!
Maybe it's just the way the French can be "c'est la vie".
Areas such as the website, pre-event info and getting answers to questions are areas that need improvement. It might be a historical event, but some areas need to move forward.
Thanks for being so transparent and for making a video despite it not going your way! Really appreciate it 👍
We briefly spoke when you dropped off your drop bag on Saturday. I mentioned that I use conventional sugar and it worked well again. You can buy 1kg bags in supermarkets and then carry that with you and dissolve it in your drinking water. Works well for me 🙂
All in all, I agree with everything you said regarding PBP. Was definitely my first and last time here but looking forward to LEL 2025 already again!
I feel for you. I was the Aussie guy chatting to you on the start line. Once that voice in your head starts saying “what the hell are you doing” it is very hard to keep going, particularly if the event isn’t going to plan. Chapeau for the video with the raw emotions. It’s not failure. It’s experience. Bravo!
Definitely, although with things you can't control is it hard to learn from.
These are all fair and honest points, Matt. Sorry it didn't work out on this occasion.
Will continue to enjoy your videos, and look forward to happier adventures for you in future!
Thank you
You should be proud of what you done, that was tough.
Gutted for you Matt. So sorry. Youll always be a star👍
Matt, thanks for your honesty. Feel gutted for you considering all the effort & planning that went in to this.
There's always the next event.
Thank you
Good work Matt, can totally understand how sometimes things get a bit boring! It’s nice to have your opinion on it as I feel lots of people like to justify racing big events like this regardless of their quality just to get their Strava kudos or Instagram likes.
Thank you.
Damn. Bad luck mate. Thanks for the video and I hope you give it another go.
Sorry to hear this Matt, look forward to your next adventure.
Yeah you’re gonna need a support car for a fast time here, that’s quite traditional but doesn’t mean unsupported riders haven’t been in the first few back in the past. Thanks for recording your thoughts
I know the 2019 fastest was unsupported, so it is possible. Maybe he was experienced, and knew what to expect? I think riders can learn a lot from their first attempt if they want to ride unsupported.
At least LEL will not be allowing support vehicles in the next event, making it a more fair experience for everyone
Yes, I think that is a good move. I doubt PBP will follow, and it might be harder to police.
You made the right decision Matt and thank you for your honest opinion. 👊
Pretty honest summary Matt, looks like you could ace the ride and I know how you feel abandoning as I did the same at Dreux on the way back on my last go. However you said you did a lot of prep pre-ride but the route is well known and I am surprised that you didn't seem to know that it is a pretty flat ride and that it is meant to be self-supported. Yes the Vedettes have support at controls but they are the minority, everything else about the ride is advertised in advance, LEL is different but so is every ride. I do agree that the French support this event much better than anywhere else. I would suggest that the flatness is part of the history i.e. this was a pro ride in the beginning and often motor-paced, why you didn't research the route wasn't clear. But well done on an honest opinion of 2023 PBP
I think you were in the wrong place, PBP is a big party where you're supposed to make friends along the way and really enjoy yourself, if you want to race you need support otherwise you stand no chance and, in the end, will be hugely disappointed. Hard not to find monotonous roads on a mostly flat route but people don't do PBP for the scenery.
I liked your video and your honesty about how you felt.
ciao.
Chwarae teg. A huge effort and always a welcome back here in the green green grass [and hills] of home! Da iawn ti.
This comes across as being an honest review of your "race" with some nice reflection at the end of what went wrong. Theres no point in slogging on when your not enjoying yourself, so your decision to pull the plug when you did, seems like a sensible one.
As with all non sucessful endevours, its a learning point from which to come back stronger for the next one.
Those hiccups could be hypoglycemia, although I saw your prep and the PH gels/chews should have taken care of that. But then if the gut wrench issues caused acid reflux then that can also cause hiccups. I'd take a packet with you of Gaviscon/Pepto at certain times to see if it helps. Also, avoid any high fibre foods, that shuts the gut process down taking in sugars. I'd also try to take on more solids (bars) for as long as possible before using gels. So eg. 3 bars in the hr but 1gel. I find my long rides it took more training to get the gut right and the riding was the easy part! Chapeau on getting there though.
I'm looking at all options, and I did read that, but I don't think it is hypoglycemia. I'm good at eating - up until it happens - so it's almost the opposite. It has happened 3 times, every one ~18hrs into a big event/challenge. One was just gels/chews, another just "normal" food, and this was gels/chews to ~10hrs, and a mix beyond that.
I'm going to look into my medication more, and see if that could have some possible effect, as I never had gut issues before, and it has only started happening since things have changed.
Really gutted for you after seeing you put in all the effort and planning.
I also DNF'd after Loudeac - couldn't keep any food down which made me lose my focus and motivation. Even up to that point I wasn't really enjoying it - in a way I'm glad you had similar reflections on the event (although I was simply aiming to get round rather than setting a good time like you).
Fingers crossed the next event goes better for you.
Thank you, and I hope you are also able to find something new to challenge yourself on.
Thanks for sharing, interesting to hear. I guess to a certain extent you can either try and ride it fast/go for a time/stay with leading groups, or ride it to enjoy it, but not necessarily both at the same time - but admirable that you at least made the effort to switch from one to the other. In my view, no shame whatsoever in packing if you’re not enjoying it - as a friend of mine says ‘we’re not playing for a row of houses’.
If you like scenery you might like mille du sud (1000km), I think it is still running every year. It’s definitely harder to finish in time than PBP in my opinion. I’ve done it, once, back in 2012.
That could be a fair assessment, but normally I'd be fine to just roll by if the riding was more enjoyable. I've been given a few events to look at now, but I will add that to the list too. I love France, and the Alps, but haven't much in the south.
Sorry to hear about how it turned out. Even though the sport is branded as self-supported, mass participation events will always require strong official support and logistics, lest the local infrastructure and services get completely overwhelmed. When those expectations aren't met, it compounds how heat, exhaustion, and stomach problems can tint things negatively. Curious about the experiences of those mid-pack and at the tail end of things compares to yours. Looking forward to following along with your future events.
From the video section at Loudec, you can get some ideas. I had more photos and videos I hadn't used, but it wasn't well organised at all. Huge numbers must have been expected there, but it wasn't coping well.
Thank you for your honest review of PBP. Perhaps as a next you might want to look into Tour Des Stations Ultimate 1000. I think it has more support!
I'll look into that one, thank you 👍
Sorry to see this Matt as I have really enjoyed the build up to this and your journey. You are still working things through and everything is raw but I am sure you will be back in four years time, and would of gained much from this.I am sure next time you will achieve your goal well.
I won't be back, and I know that 100%. This year has taken so much time for all the qualification and prep that I know it won't be worth it.
I agree with you Matt that the controls were so varied. You never knew what you were going to get. For me in mid pack that's just inconvenient for guys like you up at the front it means you can't plan and as you say have to have support. It seems like each control operates in a vacuum and that they don't share best practice or ways of working. People rave about the organisation of PBP but it can't hold a candle to LEL (which by the look of things will raise the bar still further in 2025). I enjoyed your honest review! Be interested in seeing what you do next.
Thank you Guy, I am glad others see it too - although perhaps it is because we have been spoilt by LEL? I hope you had a good ride yourself.
Great honest video. Shame about all of the unfortunate uncontrollable events but well done to you for finding the grit to still chase the lead groups after the mishaps! Also knowing when to call it. All the best fella 👍
Thanks 👍
A lot of people care more about the idea of cycling an ultra-distance than being surrounded with beautiful landscapes. Or they'll lie to themselves and build conviction it was worth it. I've yet to see a photo of the PBP that makes me think: "this is beautiful I want to go".
Well done for trying. I'm surprised that you were surprised that the route was flat?
Maybe if you'd managed to keep up with the leading group it would have all seemed different.
Thanks for your view on what I think is a great event.
When you look at the profile, it doesn't have many flat areas, but I should have looked more at the maximum elevation. Someone said it has more climbing per km than LEL, although I find that hard to believe. But they were my biggest reasons for expecting more hills.
I recommend the Italian 1200 Transalp or the German 1200 which also goes over the Alps. The scenery is breathtaking all the time plus nice climbing. Small events but lots of supply options along the way. Few of the Italians spoke English but no language barriers at the German event.
They sound great, and I love the Alps, and Italy. With Italy everything is said with the hands anyway, so no need to learn the language 😁
...or come to our 1234km event in Pennsylvania Sept 25 2024. Google PA Randonneurs.
Is the German 1200 you're referring to run by ARA München? I've been riding their events for years. The routes are superb. But they are 100% self supported. The 1200 route looks beautiful. Was added for the first time this year.
You didn't come into the mindset of PBP you finish it on the train. Nice lesson in normal.
Sorry to hear that.
Soul destroying, to be let down by things out of your control. Gutted for you. Just be thankful you called it day and didn't push on and risk injury.
Thanks for putting this out, and sorry it didn't work out the way you wanted. I've done PBP but never fancied LEL because I just didn't like the idea of so much distance with our tender British drivers! Maybe I got it backwards...
There is no denying, French drivers have more respect for cyclists in general, but I don't remember any problems at LEL. It's mostly on quieter roads.
The boring roads would kill me. If was in a good mixed group of friends I could make up for the monotony but I can’t say this event excites me enough. The long distance aspect is interesting but even then the terrain is not interesting enough for me. Well done on getting through.
Hard luck, brother.
A fair assessment Matt. The event is an emotional experience for many riders and as such it is rare to get an objective report. I think you have described some of the negatives of the event. It is an ambiguous affair inasmuch as being a race or a tour. We chatted on the train back to Rambouilllet. The volunteers are amazing and as long as there are no exceptional events the system works. Out of the ordinary events and it gets very messy. I thought the controls were chaos, facilities poorly signposted. The drop bag service provided by a third party organisation was frankly disgraceful and a rip off. That reflected poorly in my opinion on the organisation. The LEL is by a magnitude better organised.
Love your videos Matt.
Shame about how this one went. I was really excited to see how you got on when I saw you were riding it, after I watched your LEL video.
Just out of curiosity what do you use to film yourself on the bike? Is it a Go Pro with a handle?
Keep up the good work, looking forward to your next adventure 👍
Thanks Daniel. It's a GoPro 10, with a shortened handle, not the official GoPro one.
@@MattPage spot on thanks mate 👍
Your review confirms my own feelings. I’ve only ever done bikepacking races. I thought I was strange that I don’t care about PBP despite its popularity. The event rests on its history. Whether they run it well or not, people will still show up.
I prefer 100% self reliant. If things go wrong, it’s my fault or at least it’s my responsibility.
I’m gutted for you that things outside your control ruined all the work you put in to do this ride.
On the plus side you got to ride your bike for 3 days in beautiful countryside. There will always be another day...
I am fortunate as the riding I have at home is much more scenic. Until Brest it was very bland. But the drivers were good, and the road surfaces are also excellent.
I always thought Paris Brest Paris was historically the longest self supported group ride. I haven't ridden it. I didn't know about the supported racing aspect.
I didn't realise quite how big it is for some, and how important it is overall.
when resarching the event, i was wondering why they not choose a round trip. the route is more or less the same from and to brest.
Sorry to hear this Matt - I myself had to abandon from heat stroke (started Monday morning so had the full day in the heat and things got pretty dodgy for me) My wife and father-in-law volunteered at the control in Loudeac and were pretty scathing about the lack of organisation there. Sounds like it was absolute chaos. I'll be back for 2027 to finish but definitely hear you re: LEL, WAWA and others. Thanks for the fab videos. Joe
It was scorching hot! I struggled out of Brest, despite going easier by then. I had to divert off route to find a shop and get more water, and I'm sure others would have struggled too.
For most people, the satisfaction is ‘just’ in finishing and the ambiance of the villages. The route is (or was) rolling rather than flat but agreed not very interesting. If you want scenery, get into the hills and mountains. Having support crews doesn’t really seem to be in the spirit of being self-reliant. I can’t comment on disorganisation at any of the controls but that was not my experience in an earlier edition. The food available was fine for its purpose, to fuel long distance riding. But racing requirements may differ. Personally I hate energy gels and the like but each to their own.
I appreciate everyone is different, and just like the shot coming through the village, some areas the support is brilliant. That alone wouldn't be enough to get me back though.
What you say about the route is true for a fast rider. It doesn't feel quite so flat if you're not so fast or riding something that isn't a standard road bike. You're right that you need support to be fastest, otherwise you can still be very fast unsupported if you know how it all works but you still won't be able to match fully supported riders aiming to be fastest. Getting Butler and John Warnock tried in different years and were hampered as well. I agree that the route isn't special but I think it's quite nice. It's the atmosphere that makes the ride. You got the best of the crowds being in the front bunch. They lose some enthusiasm after several thousand riders have been through. You was probably too far ahead of the main bulge of PBP, so I am guessing you wasn't riding in a constant flow of cyclists of all kinds. That's a big part of the fun for me. I doubt I would ever want to just ride the route but I do like riding the event and not as a race. Maybe I will go for a fast time one time, but I know that unless I have a good support crew, even if I am fast enough, it's unlikely I will be first finisher. Maybe enter a bikepacking race if you want to race? Sounds to me like you'd enjoy those a lot.
I can't remember if there was a small group of ~10 ahead at the time, or if I was the very first through the crowd - but wow! A few seconds glimpse of what a TdF Alpe d'Huez stage must be like.
As much as I would love to see what would be possible with a fully supported attempt, the time it has taken from normal life this year, I wouldn't bother in the future.
@@MattPage I agree. Unless you ride a lot of Audax anyway, PBP is a bit of a ball ache, considering you usually just pay the entry fee and turn up for most events. It used to be even worse before on line entry.
I do several a year, but finding a mix of not being able to drive and relying upon public transport, plus having to find the BRM events within set dates. It has meant more time away from the family than I would have liked. All the events have been good though, mostly local which has meant great roads (I am biased 😄).
@@MattPage You're backed into a corner in SW Wales. That doesn't make it easy to get to events. I ride to them but I live in probably the best place in the country for that and it does take time.
I usually watch the PBP on the road between Plumieux and the long straight stretch that goes to La Cheze before arriving at the Loudeac control where I spent my school years. This year the route was different and less interesting on this stretch of road. My friends, with the heat you must have suffered and the withdrawals are logical. I live in the south of Morbihan and 4 young people were taking part.
I love this world-famous race, and it's a shame the Russians weren't there, as politics should never interfere with sport in general.
Kenavo
I prefer the ultra endurance rules that require a rider to be fully self supporting. A much fairer system. I would love to see this applied.
Absolutely, although I doubt they will change anything.
Flat? Flat? There were no mountains but it was relentless hills all the way up down up down.
I agree that LEL is a better event though. Food was crap at the controls and the food options in rural villages was terrible.
Roadside support in villages made the event. Audax is not a race- not in the spirit of the event.
Strictly speaking is not an Audax. It is a timed event, unlike most other similar events, so there will be competition. But no winner, no prizes, no podium.
@ConcertGrande there was at least one Russian... he kept everyone else awake by his snoring in the "couchage" tent at Gouarec on the way back ! Probably not one of the faster ones you were thinking of.
Rode tandem 1991 with wife, even then the disparity of those with little (us none really) and MUCH was obvious. At some point it is impossible to just take pride and enjoyment in HOW you did it and not just feel you did it with to much handicap.
Well done Matt, you are leagues ahead of me and most other cyclists.
I agree with your last 4 minutes. PBP has the history and the crowds but in every other way, I much prefered LEL. I did PBP because it would be rude not to, but I wouldnt do it again. Actually I doubt I'd find the will. Luckily, there are many other 1200k rides out there.
I've started looking into others, and maybe MM in Italy?
MM is very good (but perhaps not the first 400km of flat or last 400 if they reverse the route as I heard they might) Organisation seemed a bit quirky when I rode about a decade ago. Some controls you're well looked after, others, not so much... Bristol Glasgow Bristol is the hardest Audax I have ridden. Some off road in that one which isn't for everyone but I thought the route was very good.