This cycle trip starts in France and finishes in China. It is run by the Federation Francaise de Cyclotourisme (FFCT) and is not for charity, it is aimed at publicising cycle touring and also has links to educational projects. Departure is from Paris on 16 March and arrival is in Beijing on 3 August - just before the Olympics. On two days we will accompany the Olympic torch. It took some effort to get onto the list. There was an exhaustive selection process (including writing accounts of rides in French, writing application letters, and lots of expensive medical tests). About 100 participants have been selected. Most, of course, are French. Most, of course, are men. However, there are about 15 foreigners ... Spanish, Canadian (or rather Quebecquois), German, Danish, Belgian, Luxembourgeois etc - and yours truly,
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