We found a nice shady spot at the end of the gardens that was set up slightly to overlook the obelisk and the Champs-Elysees beyond, as well as a nice view of the Eiffel tower. We spent a few hours enjoying the view, relaxing and playing around, etc. as the crowds gathered. Late in the afternoon the energy picked up as a large envoy of the sponsorship vehicles paraded into town from the Rue de Rivoli into the Champs-Elysees, up to the Arch de Triumph, and back down the Champs-Elysees. Shortly after, the lead vehicles came through and we got to watch the cyclists zoom through the route.
As part of the finish of the race, the cyclists make this loop through the Champs-Elysees around the Louvre and up the Rue de Rivoli eight times. Our spot was a great vantage point to take in the overall race. After two loops, we quickly descended to street level on Rue de Rivoli. Watching the cyclists zoom by just a couple feet from the rail was exhilarating (we were lucky to be on the inside of the route that they clung to) and we remained here for the finish of the race.
During the final lap, the crowd cheered the wave of cyclists and then surged with cheering again for the last racer coming down to the finish line. Matt and I were in a shocked slow motion moment as he sat up in his bike to respond to the crowd while simultaneously throwing something into the air. Through the tight crowd it landed right between Matt and I and Matt quickly bent down and came up with the racer’s riding gloves! Here he his posing moments after getting his exciting souvenir.
Paris Time
What a deal - only someone from Helena could get a glove. You need to tell Will Ackles about that, since he is such a bicyclist. It is hard for us to believe that you could even see the race, much less get that close! However, since you left the Mariners have tanked. Is there any connection?! We love reading about your adventures, even if we get our comments out of order. Love, Mom
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