Calling all French chefs, bouchers, patissiers, fromagers, boulangers, restuarateurs, charcutiers or anyone else in the restaurant industry.

The only thing the French love more than cycling is food.  So every year for more than 20 years the French have combined the two and held a national cycling championship solely for workers in the restaurant profession – National Cycling Championships Gastronomic Profession.

Organized by Club Cycliste des Toques Blanches, the race attracts dedicated competitive chef-cyclists from all over France, awards national tri-colored championship jerseys and takes place every autumn.  This year it is Sunday 4 October in Wissous, just outside Paris.

For 2020 the event is expanding to also include professionals in the hotel/hospitality industry.

Races will run on a 2.3km circuit with total distances varying from 50-74km depending on category.  Categories include under 45 years-old, 45-59, 60-69, 70+ and Women.

Registration is only 25 euros and no racing license is needed, but like all cycling races in France riders must present a valid medical certificate.  In addition, proof of citizenship and employment in the hospitality or restaurant trade is required.

More information available here.

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