2024 Success!

A brief look back at this international historical rise of the Ballon d'Alsace.

This is already the 8th edition, for which the Historically team had set a recurring theme, why change a formula that works?

Therefore, it came as no surprise that the city of Belfort hosted the event on 16 and 17 August in the magnificent Place de l’Arsenal at the foot of the famous Lion in the town centre.

Around 160 crews were registered and took part in the administrative and technical checks on Friday afternoon and Saturday, much to the delight of the spectators.

The audience was very engaged on both days, with certainly more than 10,000 people continuously filling the competing park, much like at a funfair. The always available pilots played along, answering many questions and fulfilling photo requests.
A beautiful atmosphere of shared passion, reflected in the smiling faces beneath the wonderful sun.

Saturday, late afternoon, after a precise and brief briefing, we set off for the long-awaited moment of the parade, a 4 km journey through the streets of Belfort, ending in the historic centre. The drivers demanded more, and the spectators too. It was not uncommon to see them packed three or four deep, applauding the cars.

Sunday relocation and climate change.
The start in Lepuix and the entire ascent were covered by persistent rain, accompanied by thick clouds. The fog served as a reminder that we were indeed in the Vosges, with visibility severely limited from 1000m onwards.
What can I say about the road, it was very slippery, it was sporty, much to the delight of some, especially the Belgian teams who were used to this kind of grip, they had fun

However, there were four climbs, allowing the most demanding riders to cover just over 50 km on closed roads, a score on historic climbs.
Regarding the layout, the new improvised campsite behind the football pitch was unanimously approved thanks to the kind support of the Giro-Lepuix Football Club. A well-levelled, stabilised ground, wide aisles and a very precise layout welcomed around 80 teams, equipped with Barnums, motorhomes, etc. The others, who just came with a caravan, could set up on the large neighbouring meadow.

Still new, we don't have a year without improvements. Historically, the VIP area was located right at the start line. Two large tents, a refreshment bar, the food served on-site and the spectacle before our eyes were a real treat that all guests appreciated.