We have a terrific team, the mood is wonderful.

The Alexis le Trotteur and the city of Alma welcomes us on a terribly cold day.......

We leave Mount Laurier at 6 am so as to arrive in Alma by the afternoon. We have to register, find lodging in the host city, and attend the opening ceremonies.

Day 1: Critérium in the streets of the city

I am familiar with this place, as I trained here several times during the past few weeks. There are a lot more competitors than is normally the case for this time of year and everyone is very excited.

Patiently, I remain hidden in the main peloton with Vicky Dubé a little bit ahead of me but not so much so that I lose sight of her. The moment to attack comes in the last lap, following the last rurn. In the final sprint, I beat Audrey of Contrecoeur to take the Silver Medal.

Day 2: Hébertville Road Race

There are tough climbs and the weather has turned cold. I remain with the main peloton but always close to the front. Just before the finish line, Audrey is certain of taking 2nd place, but I nip her just at the wire. A sprint as I like them!

Day 3: Team Time Trial (CLME)

My teammates are Franceska Legris, Guillaume Nourry and Philippe Fyen-Gagnon. Everyone is super motivated. My medals which I have won so far encourage the others and everyone wants the Silver Medal and that is what we won! Staying together on the final climb was a very hard job! We are all very happy, but this is nothing compared to the joy our parents feel.

Photo, Michel Fyen-Gagnon

Day 4: Individual time Trial (CLMI)

Now I am afraid. I want a medal for all the world, but I remember Val d'Or. I am the last, or very nearly the last of all the cyclists to start and I want very much to rest, but I must do this last race. How can I fail when I have such good supporters. Abel, my teammate from Laurentides, does not leave me until right before my start. He encourages me to get on my bike and I leave in a downpour. Thank to his encouraging words, I win the Silver Medal. I could not really believe I had won a third medal, but this one (the time trial medal) is my favorite one.

It is a long journey home. We arrive at Mount Laurier at 3 am. What memories we have! This was a wonderful adventure!