UPDATE 22 August 2023: American Nick Dehaan is the first rider to reach the finish, averaging 29.18kph to stop the clock at 41:46:30 and set a new Paris-Brest-Paris record. Story and results HERE.

Every four years, cyclists from all across the globe train hard, qualify to participate and travel to France for one of the most daunting and challenging amateur cycling events in the world, Paris-Brest-Paris Cyclosportive.

This year 6720 riders started the 1219 kilometer out-and-back route on Sunday 20 August, with a goal of completing the route within the allotted 90 hour timeframe – with no exceptions allowed.

It is no easy task…

Along the route riders are required to stop in Villaines-la-Juhel twice, once on the way out and again on the way back. They must electronically check in, “Otherwise, they are disqualified,” warned Christian Bullot, member of the organization in Villaines-la-Juhel. It is a way to track and record a rider’s progress, while helping prevent would-be cheaters from gaining an advantage. Although not an official race, the event is timed from start to finish…thus, for many it is very competitive. German Hajo Eckstein winning the 2019 edition in 43h49’.

With riders required to stop in Villaines-la-Juhel (twice), the town is transformed into a 24hr cycling village, complete with 28 language interpreters, 300 beds, a huge dining tent, showers, two bike mechanics and of course professional medical staff consisting of 26 doctors, nurses, aides, physiotherapists, etc.

To help the bike village run smoothly over 500 volunteers work parking bikes, serving meals and helping riders recover so they can get back in the saddle. Thousands of spectators also gather in Villaines-la-Juhel at all hours of the day to create a party-like atmosphere and cheer on the riders – yes, cycling is huge in France.

The next edition will take place in 2027, but in the meantime you can ride along virtually with a rider (if you know one) by tracking their progress at this year’s Paris-Brest-Paris HERE (Note: tracking website may be unavailable due to very, very high demand).

Photo Credit: Paris-Brest-Paris

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