The Criterium du Dauphine Libere has never claimed to be the Tour de France, but any race that includes Le Mont Ventoux among its parcours certainly has its merits.
Ventoux isn't the highest or the steepest peak, but perhaps no other climb is more feared, respected, or fabled among cyclists. Its mystical stature stems from years of deforestation during the 12th Century. The resulting barren lunar-like landscape leaves cyclists at the mercy of the elements. At the summit, winds have been clocked as high as 193mph during certain seasons.
The summit was also the location of Tom Simpson's death during the 1967 Tour de France. Under the influence of amphetamines, Simpson rode past exhaustion and collapsed still attached to his bike. A memorial, fitting of the surrounding environment (inset), marks this tragic occasion.
Follow the action of the Dauphine's Stage 4 online at Cyclingnews or Velonews or watch the ascent on Cycling.tv.
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