Team Rynkeby Berlin goes to Paris - Day 1

Day 1: Berlin – Bernburg

What a successful start to a new adventure. It all began many months ago, but the real big event, the trip to Paris, was now approaching. For me personally, the day began with a short drive to the Brandenburg Gate. We all met at this historic and iconic place for a small but wonderful ceremony, along with a Swedish team which is starting from Berlin. That ceremony in itself was impressive, because it’s usually not possible to hold a (small) event at the Brandenburg Gate. It became possible by our team mate Matthieu and the French ambassador. Then, we were praised for our commitment by the French ambassador, the Berlin Senate as well as by family members and friends. Pierre, a cyclist from last year, also organised croissants. That rounded off the morning. Then, we were sent on our way, so to speak.

Berlin, Prenzlauer Berg

It was a good start, but as so often happens, the journey out of Berlin, out of this big city, takes time, with what felt like a stop-and-go. At some point, almost 30 km behind us, Ingela, the team captain for the past few years, greeted us on the side of the road and wished us a safe journey. That was a very nice gesture.

At the beginning, everything had to settle down. Despite all the training and practice rides as a group, today is a bit different, and everything will work out better over time. But we’re talking about fine-tuning here. Nothing that could pose any danger to us. And over time, everything went more smoothly, especially once we left Berlin and Potsdam behind.

Overall we had good weather all the day. Mostly sunshine, just a few clouds but lots of head wind. Not permanently but enough so that you could feel a significant difference between the first, second and third row. These 6 riders within the first 3 row are being called a “wind-shield” as they rotate frequently unlike the rest of the group. I will be part of these six riders for the entire tour and will coordinate this group as well as one entire group (out of two groups). This role will be called “navigator”. Since we are 34 riders we will ride in two groups, however, each of the groups will be led by its captain and a navigator.

A navigator is responsible for the cohesion and safety of the entire group and coordinates the group of the six leading riders. Depending on the traffic situation, this can include decisions regarding direction of travel, speed, and overtaking actions. Or, during uphill climbs, they can allow the group to temporarily break up so that everyone can ride at their own pace and the group can reunite at suitable points. If necessary, they can also coordinate measures with the accompanying motorcycle riders ahead, e.g., for a short break or to let car drivers behind us pass.

Time passed quickly, and after just under 50 km, we took our first break, which, as always, was lovingly prepared by our service team. They prepared a small buffet for us that left nothing to be desired. After a few discussions, we were able to continue more or less smoothly until the next break.

Coincidentally there was another chance for a short in a village and – thanks to Anita we had a little joy on a public playground before we continued towards Zerbst, the place for our second break.

We have arrived in Zerbst after nearly 127 km. I know that sounds crazy to many people. What a long distance. But we’re prepared for it. After all, we still want to go to Paris. In Zerbst, we were greeted by a representative of the mayor and two “princesses.” We had also taken a break here last year, but this time right in front of the town hall. The city of Zerbst also contributed a donation. Fantastic.

Less pleasant was an obvious forest fire just outside of Zerbst, which could be seen from a distance. At least the smoke was. As we drove past at a distance, it gave us a queasy feeling knowing that a forest was burning nearby. Shortly after, we had to take a ferry across the Elbe. A fire department approached us with its blue lights flashing. I’ve never seen a fire department take a ferry on its way to an emergency before. I hope the fire was extinguished quickly.

After that, it was “only” about 40 km to Bernburg, today’s destination after a total of 171 km (+600 meters of elevation gain). Bernburg is worth seeing with its charming, small old town. This was also the finish of the first stage last year, so everything was still somewhat familiar. Several riders who have participated in this tour in recent years have accompanied us up to this point. Starting tomorrow, we’ll be riding as the actual Team Rynkeby Berlin 24/25.