There are times in our lives when doubt creeps in; when we start to question our choices; when we wonder whether we’ll make it through. If you’re old enough, you may have even lived through an episode like this. If you’ve ever climbed Mont Ventoux from the north side, the existential crisis is personified in this stretch of road:

Quite appropriately, this 3km stretch of 12% road begins midway up a very hard climb, also appropriately just after a long section of easy riding. Depending on your physical fitness, the extra weight you are carrying, or how many times you’ve climbed Ventoux, the uncertainty can creep in slowly (everything is slow at 12%) or hit you once you see the first sign that announces the ramp up. This sign, incidentally, also tells you that you have 11km to go to the summit of the toughest climb in France.

I’ve had all sorts of experiences on this wall, including an almighty bonk 13 years ago that obviously has left a lasting impression. I’ve also ridden up this with ‘diamonds in my legs’, which is kind of how I felt today, although I was trying my damndest to keep those diamonds from turning to dust by staying in Zone Two.

Keeping in my philosophical mood, I give you my favorite Ventoux quote from Paul Fournel, a French philosopher and cyclist:

Ventoux simply feeds back your fatigue and fear. It has total knowledge of the shape you’re in, your capacity for cycling happiness, and for happiness in general. It’s yourself you’re climbing. If you don’t want to know, stay at the bottom.” 

I’m nearly always glad I go up. Ventoux can answer a lot of questions.