The “queen stage” – and we were really feeling the heat. Cannot say so much about the stage today by pictures as we had to focus on the ride and to refresh during the breaks. It was quite a long and tough day, that’s for sure. We spent a lot of time time to get through the big city of Brussels towards the EU parliament.

We spent pretty much the entire day out in the sun. We set off quite early from the eastern edge of Brussels and made our way right across the city, partly along some lovely, long stretches of bike paths. Even with generally excellent infrastructure, though, a ride like that can be pretty exhausting – especially with a large group. Or even two large groups. 😉 But we pulled it off. We had a meeting with the EU Commissioner from Denmark (the country where Team Rynkeby was founded 25 years ago) – a high-profile event for both sides. Team Rynkeby is a huge deal in Denmark; it is perceived very differently there – or rather, it enjoys a completely different level of popularity and status. And then there was the photo op in front of the EU Parliament. So, this is where all those mysterious decisions get made. 😉

But when you’re in Brussels, you have to take a (quick) look at places like that, of course. It was all good. Eventually, the landscape turned more rural and the weather got warmer. And even more warmer. That’s when mistakes can happen – like taking the wrong exit at a roundabout. 😅

This all was organised by our team mate Matthieu, who is arranging such a meeting every year (for instance, last year we met the Luxembourgish politician Jean Asselborn, see here).

Eventually, the route out of the city became easier. And greener. And after what felt like two hours – as it started to warm up – we really got into a flow.

And by the way like last year, a team mate has celebrated his special day. Happy birthday David! Hope you enjoyed your “special decoration” again. 😉

You really look forward to the next break, which means not just sustenance and refreshment, but also a chance to rest. Especially when there wasn’t much time for breakfast (my own fault). Today was by far the hottest day of the tour so far, featuring one of two very long stages covering over 180 km. There was also a fair amount of elevation gain; the climbs were well distributed along the route, with frequent ups and downs. After a few attempts, we all got quite good at using the momentum from a descent to tackle the next ascent – exactly what those of us with more experience always recommend. And that makes it so much more fun.

We also had fun chatting and joking around. At times, though, you could tell that the quality of the gags was slipping a bit – clearly a case of too much sun and time together on a bike. At the same time, we’re really gelling as a team. Spending a whole week riding together is an intense experience, even though the group lineups keep changing – basically every day. Since riding in France, I pretty much enjoy passing villages. Much more than in Germany. 😉

As mentioned a few days ago, everyone has their own box for the personal essentials that can be accessed quickly during breaks (so you don’t have to go digging through your luggage). These boxes are numbered to find the own box back easier. What a luxury (and the result of experiences during the past years). However, the box numbers were the distinction today. Even and odd box numbers were used to set up two groups for the day.

Eventually, though, you stop thinking about that – especially when you’re enjoying the beautiful landscapes and panoramas of France. Time and again, you’re treated to stunning views that you sometimes almost fly past. It’s not always easy to capture those impressions, certainly not while riding (no photos while riding). At least I can shoot a few clips with my action cam. Spontaneous ice cream breaks were part of the day, too. Had I been riding alone, I probably would have stopped at a cemetery more often to cool my head. Still, it was bearable as it was.

However, St. Quentin is a nice and cozy French town is a city in the Aisne department, Hauts-de-France, northern France. It has been identified as the Augusta Veromanduorum of antiquity. It is named after Saint Quentin of Amiens, who is said to have been martyred there in the 3rd century. Pretty much liked the view from my room’s window.

Also, due to lack of space in the garage for all the bicycles, some of us were allowed to keep their bike in the room. A kind of a reminiscence to the 8th stage in 2024. 🤪 With a happy end this time. 😉

And as always, I never tire of highlighting the good cause involved. Simply put, we are raising funds for the German Childhood Cancer Foundation (Deutsche Kinderkrebsstiftung), which in turn supports local projects, affected families, and cancer research.

I would like to take this opportunity to sincerely thank everyone who has supported my personal campaign, “Cash for Kilometer,” and – by extension the German Childhood Cancer Foundation. I encourage everyone else to do some good as well. I am riding not only for myself and the families affected, but also on behalf of everyone who is backing my efforts to help others. You can find the details on how and where to get involved right here.

Last but not least:

Map of the day, stage six: Brussels to St. Quentin (F)

Statistic of the day: