A bit early but, Mega Avalanche 2008

[Conor]

Last time we took 6 months to organise it and still left the ferry to the week before...

Anyway, big thing for this year is the race has been moved two weeks earlier in July,

7th-13th July!!!

For those of you that don't know what I'm talking about it's basically the ultimate MTB experience, 22miles of single track, glacier and rocks descending 2700mts. With 399 other riders at the same time!

Here's an idea:

http://www.youtube.com/watch?v=L51D8oI_1mE

http://www.mournemtb.com/conor/Mountain%20Biking/Mega%20Avalanche%202007/index.html


If you are interested post here.

Due to lessons learned last year, anybody who wants to go MUST pay in full by APRIL 2008. We're aiming for DaveB's van full with 8-10 bikes plus one passenger, plus two cars (my estate plus another decent sized car) with 4 in each car to make it economical. Ferry via Belf-Stranraer and Dover-Calais.

Accommodation will be in Alpe D'Huez through Rob's industry links (basically a week will cost you about £40).

We'll probably leave the sat/sun before the event and leave the day after it. Total cost will be about £400, give or take. There is scope to run this into a two week holiday incorporating a week in Les Deux alps if holiday times and funds allow!


Entry opens in January 2008, www.avalanchetrophy.com


PS, if any girls are interested I know of one or two that are heading over that would love the support! Either contact me or PM Fiorelli on this forum.

[marko]

7th-13th July!!!

happy fookin days, will have no sweat getting off work then!!!! :)

mega avalanche 2007= stella (in moderation of course), puking at 3400m, destroyed rear mechs, smoking the english, sunshine, 'green ice', unhappy french fuzz, sweet sweet miles of trails. LES DUEX ALPS is the place to be and we done nowhere near all the tracks, danny near falling off a 100 foot cliff, 'rob rob rob', anyone for a shucksmith??, spud heads, sideways action, the best section of singletrack in the world, a very sunburnt irish man ;) some fine wines and the best cider in the world, my excellent cooking, smoking the english who thought they were cool (better look next year boys on your expensive rigs), motorway driving, dodgy travel bookings, a scottish fella who got a little bit saturday night Glasgow with us, 'healy healy'!!!

[thetrailbuilder]

fook it im going, £400 is no big deal

[Conor]

I knew that would make you happy!

Last yer the MTBRider lot put on a great show, with an inspirational ride from Conor Mansell who was at the time over coming a huge and painful knee surgery and technically couldn't ride a bike who managed to qualify for the Promo race and come from the back row to finish 173rd ish.

I think DaveB also did well, apparently he qualified for the main race or something.... doesn't matter though as he's a 'roid abuser ;)

[Bloom]

A strong possiblity for me.

I commend your efforts of early organisation. This has potential for the longest thread ever. It'll still be up in the air a few weeks to go!!;)

[Conor]

No it wont! Ferry will be booked in April or so as it's half the price compared to booking it last minute! I'm entering as soon as it enters so I can get another free top and get a decent quali position this time!

When I said £400, that's what it cost us this year, but if we book early and have a couple full cars it'll cost a good bit less.

[thetrailbuilder]

already picking lines from earthed 3 section

[Conor]

You can't pick lines. the lines you pick are the places on the mountain where there are no slow English/Dutch/German riders in front of you!!! Either that or you have to walk!

[thetrailbuilder]

monster t's will sort that ;)

[John_O]

i'm looking forward to this event :-)

[chucky]

I know ive fancied doing this, as have a few mates.

Will consider it for sure.

[Conor]

http://www.findyourflow.org/blog/2007/10/08/mega-2008/

Just checked ferry prices, will be pretty much half the price compared to last time if we book early!

[Speedfreak]

Well, couldn't think of a better way to spend the start of my summer! Hopefully money is good after new bike and races etc, bt if so I'm defo for going over!!! :D

[MrNuts]

I'll prob have to miss out, i'll have a go at most things but this might just be out of my league! There will be enough slow englishmen there without me adding to it.

[marko]

kevin you will be alot better than half the idiots there, must of their bikes had been bought on the way home from the office................

lads even if you don't care about the race just think of this: on the swaaa in a nice sunny country for a week! :) oh yea 20 brews are 5 funny moneys.

[MrNuts]

Let me know if you need a cheap rate for the ferry to scotland, i can get travel agent rates at short notice on p&o through work.

[keyserni]

What sort of bikes are you going bring? What to you take to that sort of event, you dont need pure DH speed you need something that'll take 22 miles of hits which could include other riders.

[marko]

bike is not really important to be honest, people were on big rigs, hardtails, all mountain rigs etc etc. Speed and fitness are not important really, a bit of stamina would help.

[thetrailbuilder]

im bringing a demo 9

[tinkerhil]

im bringing a demo 9

And when it was on the back of my old 306 the car nearly wheely`d

[PBR_Streetgang]

does anyone know what's the nearest airport? is it a good idea to fly in?

[marko]

good idea if you fancy 150 euro tranfers each way.

[miniator]

ooo im tempted...any other davagh boys fancy it?

[PBR_Streetgang]

good idea if you fancy 150 euro tranfers each way.

transfers? is it an internal flight? what's the airports called?

if i go, i'll be coming from stockholm and driving is a definite no no.

[RobS]

grenoble is the closest airport, about an hour and a half away mate.

[Conor]

transfers? is it an internal flight? what's the airports called?

if i go, i'll be coming from stockholm and driving is a definite no no.

I think Geneva/Grenoble is the nearest 'port and it's a good few dozen miles from Alpe D'Huez. All I know is the lads that flew in from Dublin had to pay €200 to get from the air port to the resort.

[Conor]

grenoble is the closest airport, about an hour and a half away mate.

You up for this? Not the same without you mate! Exploding rear mechs and all ;)

[Conor]

Been looking into Ferry prices. Looks like about £300 for a car +4. And that's direct with Stena. No too bad.

race entry opens in a months time :)

[marko]

conor, would you like to stay on another week and do the mountain of hell in les deux alps?

[Conor]

does a bear **** in the woods?

[Hollywood]

I'm a maybe at the mo, depends on work mainly.

[Conor]

Entries open on 14th January!!!

www.avalanchetrophy.com

[Conor]

Bump! Two days to go!!!

[Conor]

Go Go Go!!!!!!!!!!!!

[marko]

thats me entered!only doing the mega as i would rather ride les deux alps an extra day instead of the sprint avalanche.

[BrodyKeeton]

Hey guys, u looking for another body.....Im well up 4 that, been interested in the megavalanche for a while, none of my mates are up4it, id be a cert to make it, anyway let me know....Im Brody by the way....20 years old....

[marko]

where abouts do you live? we done it last year aswel

[Speedfreak]

How the hell do you enter on that site??

[BrodyKeeton]

I live in nottingham, yeah how was it last year? it looks like the ultimate biking experience? Im only a train away from where eva u guys set off from!

[Cotic]

I am going, have space for 2 more, let me know

[BrodyKeeton]

Where are you leaving from?

[Conor]

http://www.activeeurope.com/Events/index.cfm?AC=EventDetails&E=49607

[BrodyKeeton]

What you getting a platinum or bronze pack or summet?

[Conor]

Platinum for me.

We're going Belfast- Stranraer-Dover-Calais.

[Cotic]

Where are you leaving from?


Rosslare more than likely

[BrodyKeeton]

how did ya get there last year, what transport did ya use? I am well up 4 it, its all about the platinum pack 4 me 2....I would be travelling on my own, so would be great to get a lift, or meet up with sum 1 else...

[marko]

we had a car and a van......basically you need a van for all your crap and spares as getting the most basic of things over there is hard enough but crc are only 2days away if it all goes peter tong!

we looked at rosslare last year Peter but not only was it very expensive it was also a total arse pain in terms of timing. .

[BrodyKeeton]

so whats the chances of me being able 2 meet up with sum guys, and basically taggin along.....

[Speedfreak]

Cheers Conor for the link! Need to sort out with my da about me giving him the money and him paying this thing through his card! lol.

What the transport arrangments then, or have these not yet been decided?

[thetrailbuilder]

shotgun ;)

[Cotic]

Woo-yay, entry booked.

[thetrailbuilder]

sorting mine tomorro!!!

[MrNuts]

Lucky Gits, family holiday for me

[Cotic]

I have room for 2 in the motor if anyone interested

[Speedfreak]

shotgun ;)

I'm taller, I need all that leg room up front you see so you'll have to sit behind me with the seat fully rolled back, sorry but these things just have to be done! lol :D

Oh and eh, Mark showed me this when I tried a forum style shotgun for the next Ae Scotland trip...shotgunrules (http://www.shotgunrules.com/)...fair is fair! lol ;)

[thetrailbuilder]

right, didnt want to resort to this, but fight ye for it

[Conor]

Plan so far is:

My car

Pete's car plus two passengers.


Ideally we want to take a van to carry bikes so we can bring two cars with four in each. Failing that it'll be 3 per car.

Nothing is confirmed until I get a deposit and commitment.

Want in my car, then pay me your share of the ferry. Booking it end of next month.

[Cotic]

I am commited, just ordered some Megavalanche specific bits for the Patriot!

[gaulty]

balls to that, dates are no good for me, unless i can take the hole family

[marko]

anyone who is wanting to go should enter asap. si paton has been plugging the mega every since he got back from it last year. Having spoke to alot of people on descent-world i can say the interest in it this year is huge!

for an extra 2 euro you can get a cancellation option up to 10 days before the race. so there is no harm in filling an entry in what so ever!

[thetrailbuilder]

done and dusted, so conor, what day we leaving?? lol

[Conor]

Probably sat 5th July or sunday 6th July. It'll take about 30-36 hours to get there. If we leave Sunday morning we'll not get there until monday evening. If we leave Saturday Morning we'll get there Sunday night, ready for biking on Monday morning.

[thetrailbuilder]

saturday sounds better, whats this guff about medical certificates??

[Cotic]

All set!

[Conor]

saturday sounds better, whats this guff about medical certificates??

If you don't have a race license you need a note from a doctor you're not likely to collapse or die, i.e. if you have any existing medical conditions that prevent you from taking part.

[Speedfreak]

right, didnt want to resort to this, but fight ye for it

Mmmmm...race yee!?? lol

[Conor]

So can we have a quick list of those that have entered?

Me
Mark
Pete
Crilly
?


James, have you entered then?


I was speaking to Ballymena Dave today and him, Stevie D and Barry might be going as Whistler is working out too expensive.

[_Al]

If any of you guys are interested in some plush accomodation at fairly reasonable prices. A bunch of us from Epic and MBCC will be staying in some tricked out ski challets with sauna jacuzzi etc. We had one last year and we'll probably be taking 2 this year. It worked out at €300 for 2 weeks last year but if we fill them about €200. Its looking good for filling them as we only have 7 places left to fill. If this interests you let me know.

[Conor]

Keep you posted on that one Al!!


Just got a quick ferry qoute. Going to be around £350 for a 10 day return on the ferry for a car plus 4.

Ferry + fuel + tolls will be circa £180 each.

Just emailed Nutt for a quote, should drop the Ferry price by £50-£75 or so.

[Cotic]

I canny wait

New front forks and rear shock ordered for the 66

[thetrailbuilder]

£180 is ok, what about a shagpad?

[MREGAN]

Nutt travel will probably be best for you guys but I just got an email from stena line. They are having a sale on travel to france, spain via Britian. £100Single just a thought for you. Enjoy your trip.

[Speedfreak]

James, have you entered then?

Well, slight problem...you see there a M3 frame for sale on Descent-World, and I'm waiting for the dude to get back with the size and price. It's £900 with saints cracks, Avid brakes etc, some pretty expensive gear with it so the frame itself might be cheap enough. Sooooo, if that's the case I'm thinking of getting it! :) I'll be getting a nice wee sum of money over the next couple of weeks you see, so if it's not sold by then and the size and price is right......:rolleyes:

If not, then Mega shall be entered! ;)

[marko]

an m3 for £900 brizzles, feck me how much bhp does she have? race ya in my 206 :p

[Speedfreak]

358 bhp, it ****s 206's! lol ;)

[Conor]

OK, been researching the ferry options.

basically as it's over the twelfth holidays the ferry form belfast-stranraer is going to be about £80 more than normal. And it will book up very quickly.

I'm going to book my car in with three passengers through Nutt tomorrow.

Leaving the Sat before the Mega and returning on the Monday after, with the Stran-Belf ferry on Saturday evening.



PS James, don't be a a square, **** the bike and go on the holiday. You have no idea of how good it is.

If I had the choice between biking for a year over here on a sweet bike and riding for a week in the Alps at the Mega and not be able to ride for the rest of the year here...... the latter every time.

[Cotic]

Ferry booked

[marko]

james think about it, an m3 or watching me puke at 3400metres??

i know which one i would pick! :)

[Conor]

Yeah James, the best part of the trip is laughing at Mark most of the time.

Who's in my car then?

[marko]

raises hand and asks to be taken over to france for more shannigans

[thetrailbuilder]

me!

[Conor]

OK!

My Car:

Mark
Joanne
?Crilly
?James

Rules:

My car has a 6 CD changer. I have three slots, each passenger has one. Those be the rules.


Remember Pete has 2 spaces in his car as well. Not sure about DaveB's plans yet.

[Cotic]

If the two spaces dont get filled I will have to go in a Norman no mates stylee

[Conor]

Doubt it. More bikers will crawl out of the wood work soon enough! Entry has only been open a couple days!

Last year we had a shortage of passengers so just split them evenly between the cars.

[chucky]

Im lurking in the background.

Not sure what way my works going to be, but once i have a better idea ill see what rooms left.

[RobS]

I reckon my car would like a little visit to it's mother-land, will have to try and see what the fook I'm at ASAP.
I heard they were drafting in the SAS after the local gendarmes couldn't handle the spate of petty theft last year!!

[Speedfreak]

God damn frame is a small! Ah well, Mega here I come! :D

Count me in for your car Conor! ;)

Now, need to get my arse into gear and enter this thing asap! lol

Oh, and is there any way this can be entered by phone or something? I have no cradit card, and my ma and da don't like using there cards on the net (for obvious reasons)!

[marko]

go to the active europe website and i am sure there will be a phone number ya can ring, failing that i have the A-Teams number...........


james you posted that at 1.50am, does school not start at like 9.30???haha

[marko]

Guys,

66% of Mega Entries so far are British!!!!!
The limit is 1,400 riders and they are already half full, don't miss out guys..

Cheers.

Si..
www.Descent-Gear.com
For 661 Protection.

get on it asap fellas

[Cotic]

*wonders how many posts there will be by the time we get to France*

[Conor]

God damn frame is a small! Ah well, Mega here I come! :D

Count me in for your car Conor! ;)

Now, need to get my arse into gear and enter this thing asap! lol

Oh, and is there any way this can be entered by phone or something? I have no cradit card, and my ma and da don't like using there cards on the net (for obvious reasons)!

PM me your DOB, license number (if you have one), home address landline number etc.

[papasmurf]

God damn frame is a small! Ah well, Mega here I come!


http://cgi.ebay.co.uk/2006-Ellsworth-Dare-Large-Ano-Green-Frame-DHX-5-0-Coil_W0QQitemZ230212867214QQihZ013QQcategoryZ98083 QQrdZ1QQssPageNameZWD2VQQcmdZViewItem?_trksid=p163 8.m122

nice size for you. Sintey is 6ft 5" and he rides one ;) ;)

[Conor]

you're a bad man Drew :)


Right, James is in.

My car so far:

Me
Mark
Joanne.
Crilly



James.... I'll give you a lift to Belfast then you are with Pete. Either that or you are stuck in the back with Mark and Crilly!!!

That'll serve you right for not entering until now :)

[Conor]

James, WTF is your email address???!!!

[Speedfreak]

Pm'ed you there!

Thanks very much man! :) I'll throw you the dosh soon, I get it on monday so anytime next week!

I'm happy going with Pete (front seat?), as long as he stays behind someone and doesn't pull any wild moves in his motor (I like my life Pete! ;) :p)

[Cotic]

Fookin 211BHP and a wee tuning box ;-)

I changed the motor btw James

[Conor]

Found a cheap hotel in Calais.

€45 for a tripple room for a night ::yikes::

[Cotic]

I am not sharing a room with Conor and James ffs! ::yikes::

[Speedfreak]

What motor did you get then Pete? 211bhp should be good fun! lol :)

Conor, we not doing that cheap accom. thing you's did last year? Or was that a one off perk from someone!? lol

[thetrailbuilder]

i dont mind paying more for better accomodation

[marko]

i want a chalet with a hot tub.

[thetrailbuilder]

rubbing a mate up the right way at the mo to sell me his spesh sx trail cheap

[Speedfreak]

rubbing a mate up the right way at the mo

Duuuurty DOG!!! I'm glad I'm not in the back of the car with you and Mark now! lol ;)

Oh, and if we get a room I am not sharing a bed with someone, and if there is a double I'm having it...anyone who disagrees can sleep in the bathroom...in the shower, with it running on cold water!!! lol :p

[barry_kellett99]

May be of interest to anyone who hasnt booked a ferry from Dover to Calais.
Dont even know if thats the way you are going, but anyway:
http://www.hotukdeals.com/item/138761/massive-four-day-sale-from-10am-p-o/


Actually - on reading the comments below it, doesnt seem to be anything special of an offer :o

[Conor]

Quality find BK!!! £52!!!

And here's me about to pay Nutt £125!!!

[barry_kellett99]

Oh, ok then, so it is a good deal?!

Superb!

[dave hank]

:-) hi to all you crazy horses riding the megaavalanch, dave & a.j from hull are entered for the 1st time, had a look on google earth at the course ::yikes:: , what we were after was a bit of advice on were to stay, any sensible offers or people who would like to rent a chalet, thanks dave & a.j:)

[Conor]

Pete, who is going in your car so far? Is it just Crilly.

DaveB has pulled out so bike carrying options have changed! I've got four in my car, can we stick one person and/or bike in your machine to lighten the load for me?

I'm going to be booking accommodation this week. Anybody else wanting to tag along with us? Anybody got a van!!??? Going to get a chalet that sleeps 8-10.

Dave Hank, you and your mate sorted yourselves out yet?

[Cotic]

Conor I can take 3 blokes plus bikes max, do I have to share a car with Crilly? ::yikes::

Make room for me in the accomodation?

[Conor]

Conor I can take 3 blokes plus bikes max, do I have to share a car with Crilly? ::yikes::

Make room for me in the accomodation?

Sure.

Just need you to take one bike I think. Or maybe just some luggage. Planning on three frames on the bike wrack with wheel and luggage in the boot. Boot is huge.

mark is trying to get more people to go, we know a guy with a van...

[Speedfreak]

Am with Pete then? Your car is clearly full Conor!

Btw, due to you not living close by £70 was spent on my sis's 18th, so you will get your dosh...just not as soon as I had hoped. Advice - Don't get pissed then take your bank card to Belfast when you go out for someone's 18th, silly, silly, silly idea! lol

[Conor]

Am with Pete then? Your car is clearly full Conor!

Btw, due to you not living close by £70 was spent on my sis's 18th, so you will get your dosh...just not as soon as I had hoped. Advice - Don't get pissed then take your bank card to Belfast when you go out for someone's 18th, silly, silly, silly idea! lol


Not sure yet.

In total there are 6 of us between two cars, I've booked the ferry for four, but of course somebody can jump in/out after the crossings.

[marko]

I've booked the ferry for four, but of course somebody can jump in/out after the crossings.

i'm probably the best swimmer so i will jump out and meet you's in Calais

[Cotic]

Is it Crilly or Mr Freak in with me?

[Conor]

Crilly. I have to pick Speedfreak, Mark and Joanne up on the way to the ferry so Crilly with you makes sense to me. If he annoys you you can throw him in the boot or something.

[Cotic]

I am not spending two days in a car with crilly, no fecking way

[Cotic]

On a lighter note I fitted the new rear shock to the Patriot today, seems pretty damn good (for an air shock on a big hitter).

Getting the Manipoo spv TFtuned also so I will have the option

[Speedfreak]

I am not spending two days in a car with crilly, no fecking way

Hahaha, he's not going to take offence to that, nuh uh, not one bit! lol

[Conor]

Right guys. Entry for the sprint race is full and I'm sure the entry for the Mega is pretty much full as well.

Just looking at the schedule on www.avalanchetrophy.com there are timed practice runs this year.

[marko]

here the main race is on saturday so we can get clean loaded that night :)

[thetrailbuilder]

here the main race is on saturday so we can get clean loaded that night :)

CLASS

[Conor]

here the main race is on saturday so we can get clean loaded that night :)

I saw that... I think it might be a ****-up on their site though. I think that's actually the schedule for the SPRINT race. Not sure though. If it is right then we lose a day on last year :( But we can get blaaacked :)

[Conor]

I've been reading it again and it does look like the whole event has shrunk by two days!!

Practice starts on the TUESDAY, sprint DH is on the WEDNESDAY Mega quali is on FRIDAY and race is on SATURDAY.

That doesn't leave much time for riding Les Deux Alps :(

We've booked ferrys so we'll be there sunday 6th to monday 14th. That means no lift passes on either Monday 7th or Sunday 13th. Or am I wrong??

http://www.avalanchetrophy.com/megavalanche-alpe-dhuez-38-programme.html

[marko]

lift pass is monday 7th to sunday the 13th inclusive. so we still have 7 days riding

[Conor]

You guys OK sharing the same sort of flat we had last year but a bit bigger ? There will be five of us. Prices are a lot higher than last year :(

Ferry(s) booked. £307 in total.

[Cotic]

Conor, have you got accom for me?

[Mac]

Did any of you get the mail from Ride Oisans - the lad that Steve has partnered up with on the "News" page? It may interest you -

MEGAVALANCHE Whilst we have been finishing off the website we have been inundated with emails asking if we are going to be set up for the Mega !

The answer to this is YES ! So here is the deal

We provide you with :

accommodation tuesday 8th july to 15th july 2008
a comfy bed in an alpine chalet up in Alp D'huez
continental breakfast organised by our resident host Lucien ;-)
evening meals on 6 of the 7 nights with beer and wine
uplifts from the race finish on thursday and sunday (race day)
monday after the mega we will take you over to les deux alps to experience the downhill and freeride trails
All this for just 600 Euro (approx 450 pounds) - you just need to turn up and ride your bike ! We will be taking bookings via the website from middle of march - but if you wish to reserve a space now email us at info@rideoisans.com

[Conor]

Conor, have you got accom for me?

Yes. Flat for me, you , crilly, marko and james. Joanne is staying with girls she met last year. She's scared of us. And rightly so ;)

[Fiorelli]

Yes. Flat for me, you , crilly, marko and james. Joanne is staying with girls she met last year. She's scared of us. And rightly so ;)

Eh... I don't think so!!
While you are all staying in your shoebox sized flat, eating tuna&pasta for the fourth night in a row...
I'll be in a spacious chalet with an ensuite room, outdoor hot-hub, with my breakfast, afternoon tea and 3 course evening meal with wine, made for me everyday :p

[Conor]

Not fair. Can we at least visit?

[Fiorelli]

no!:p

[marko]

Eh... I don't think so!!
While you are all staying in your shoebox sized flat, eating tuna&pasta for the fourth night in a row...
I'll be in a spacious chalet with an ensuite room, outdoor hot-hub, with my breakfast, afternoon tea and 3 course evening meal with wine, made for me everyday

try swaaing on our 10th bottle of silly silliy cheap priced stella with me at the cooker helm heaping wine and god knows what into a truely delicious meal! then after that we will watch the dvd where they interview brendan fairclough and we will laugh at his fat spud head :)

now joanne i bet that ya are really really jealous???!!!..............

[Conor]

Guys, credit card bill with ferry etc has landed, I need money :)

I'll be emailing you individual invoices!

[Cotic]

Right boys, I am in the same boat (forgive the pun)

I will be able to transport one person and their bike/gear.

That is it I am afraid as I will be bringing two bikes with me.

Who is in my car and can you paypal me some dosh please?

[Cotic]

What town are we staying in Conor?

[Conor]

Alpe D'Huez. The main place!!! Pete, any chance you'd have room for a couple bags/suitcases? I can take out four bikes and people OK, luggage will be tight though.

[Cotic]

I will be able to squeeze a couple of bags in.

Ok so who is travelling with me then?

I need to make the final payment for the boat and I previously booked three, have to amend it to two.

No way could I get three in my motor

[thetrailbuilder]

who am i going with conor?

[Conor]

I don't think there is any room for you James. We might be able to take you but not your bike. That OK? You can cook/clean for us instead.

But in all seriousness I'll give you a shout at lunch time, we're going to have to organise an extra car or something if pete cant take a bike for me. Danny might go anyway so another car would do the job. As far as it's stands you are with pete, but if mark drives there's a spare seat.

[RobS]

recognise the view?!:)

[Conor]

Sweet!!

Are you there now? You ****ing git!!!!! Stealing the freeride bar's WiFI?!

[RobS]

haha, nah, was there for the week, drove home at the weekend...
you know the freeride bar still doesn't have those letters back up!! covering it up with fir tree branches, classy.

[Cotic]

Right Crilly, get your dosh out

[Conor]

Looks like there are 9 or even 10 of us going now! Might need another car....

Rob is sorting us out with two apartments this week :)

We'll sort all the money out next week.

[Cotic]

Who else is going?

Crilly, pm me I need dosh off ya!

[Conor]

Who else is going?

Danny Hardy, Noel, Rob and Chucky (even though he has yet to admit it)

[Cotic]

Conor, you in Tolly tomorrow?

[Conor]

Conor, you in Tolly tomorrow?

Yes. But no.

I PM'd you last night.

[Cotic]

Duh right enough

[Cotic]

Driving from Stranraer to Dover go M1 or M40?

[thetrailbuilder]

VERY high chance i cant go now, somethings come up

[Conor]

No way. Just ask the judge to change the date of the trial :)

[Cotic]

VERY high chance i cant go now, somethings come up


FFS!

[thetrailbuilder]

not that, been made unemployed, placement finished and there not keeping me on over the summer, so will be flat out looking a job

[Cotic]

James, send me a CV

[Conor]

www.bankofmumanddad.com

[Conor]

OK, crunch time. Money by the end of this month please. If you are going you need to show me the money.

How do you feel sharing a chalet with the Epic lads? We're looking at odd numbers and Rob hasn't got me a price for the flats yet so we may have to go with the chalet option. €230 each.

[Cotic]

I need my money now as well :-O

[thetrailbuilder]

right, not going, anyone know how to cancel my registration, cant find it on the site

[Conor]

right, not going, anyone know how to cancel my registration, cant find it on the site

Go to www.activeeurope.com, login. Go to events and find the mega. Click on the "contact organiser". Send them an email asking if you can change the name of the entry to another person. I'll PM you the details of the guy that wants to go but can't enter.


PS: sign onto MSN messenger over lunch if you can.

[Cotic]

I need another passenger lol

Tell me this

Is a 34T chainring ok for the bikes biggest front ring?

[Speedfreak]

Conor I'm defo not going. Just can't feckin afford it! Sorry guys, I reeeeeally want to go, but unfortunately I haven't got the dosh! :(

Ah well...sorry about leaving you's having to try and fill another place!

[chucky]

I really want to go, but unfortunately i have a work seminar on the 15-16th July in Manchester.

If i can get flights back from Lyon, or possibly paris on the Monday i should be good to go, if not well.... i guess i'll be missing out on a hell of a trip.

[Cotic]

FFS! another drop out

[MrNuts]

Speadfreak lives!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!

[Conor]

Accom booked for 6. I'll need the money this weekend. Bargin price, txt it later.

Here are some pics:

http://www.chaletdesneiges.com/uk/oz.htm

http://www.hotels.co.uk/hotel-france/hotel-oz-region-of-france-/residence-le-chalet-des-neiges-oz-en-oisans/

I'm banning anybody from brining matches and any drunken attempt to light the fire will result in eviction (Mark!!)!!

http://www.chaletdesneiges.com/26net/2005NewPhotos/Ph011.jpg

sweet

http://www.hotels.co.uk/13/hotels/2000000/1230000/1223900/1223882/hcom_1223882_54_b.jpg

LOL

http://www.hotels.co.uk/13/hotels/2000000/1230000/1223900/1223882/hcom_1223882_55_b.jpg

[Conor]

If anybody else wants to go we have a couple spaces left in the cars. For accom contact Al on the Epic site, they have 8 spares places in a large chalet.

[Cotic]

Looking sweet

[RobS]

it is actually £77, not £76, didn't do my rounding up lads!
Cheers

[Cotic]

*rubs wang*

[Conor]

it is actually £77, not £76, didn't do my rounding up lads!
Cheers

Rip-off merchant! Next it'll be £77.50 ;)

[RobS]

aye, let's call it a nice round £80 each and that'll get me a couple of pints!;)
nah, it'll be £77 but I haven't had a chance to do anything about it today...it is all due at once though, we can get it sorted out next week, don't know if people want to pay seperately by cheque or card or bank transfer? Let me know and I can PM the details.

[Conor]

I'll pay for the lot, cheque.

[chris hagan]

I'm looking for some accommodation from the wednesday to saturday if any one has a space. Cheers.

[RobS]

I'll pay for the lot, cheque.
that's grand mate, but just do it for 5 x £77 (my head can't work that out after the bbq-cooking beers!) and I can put my card through on the system at work.

[Conor]

Chris, don't think we can squeeze you in (apartment has three rooms, one double, two twins and there's a bunk in the hallway!). Contact Al and see if he can help you.

Lads, hotel on the Sunday night in Calais is €27 each. Not booked it yet, leaving it till next month when my CC can actually take another beating!

Rob, please PM me address to send the cheque please.

[Conor]

http://www.conormansell.co.uk/Mountain%20Biking/Mega%20Avalanche%202007/slides/DSCF4612.JPG

Bring it on.

[MrNuts]

http://www.conormansell.co.uk/Mountain%20Biking/Mega%20Avalanche%202007/slides/DSCF4612.JPG

Bring it on.

I'm not jealous at all.
I'll be in my caravan when you lot are there, not jealous at all.
GITS!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!!:D

[Conor]

Right guys.... thanks for the money for the ferry etc. All booked now. The only thing left are the hotels on the way there and the way back.

We are booking into a hotel on the Sunday night in Calais. Just deciding on which one. We have two choices, a) hotel @ €27 each but with no secure parking, or, b) hotel @€34 each with secure parking. It's your choice. We'll be doing the same on the way back so budget that in as well. I'll leave it up to you guys.... but we are DEFINITELY staying over in a hotel of some description each way, in Calais each time. I drove it straight last time, not this time.

The return journey.... as the race is on Saturday I'm thinking we get rat-arsed sat night, get up at our leisure on Sunday and drive to Calais on Sunday sometime late morning or lunch time. That means we can stay over in Calais on Sunday night, get a ferry on Monday morning and be back for Monday night.

How does that sound? I think that's the best bet as we'll be doing f-all on Sunday anyway. No way am I riding a bike after the Mega Avalanche and with a big hang-over...

[Cotic]

Sounds good, can you book me a hooker?

As for staying in Calais I want the £ 34 option

[Conor]

Sounds good, can you book me a hooker?

As for staying in Calais I want the £ 34 option

All I can do is get you some numbers, rest is up to you!

[Cotic]

Thats fine, PM them to me

[Conor]

We have another Mega Avalancher on board :)

Are you on board? I'm on board!!

http://www.conormansell.co.uk/Mountain%20Biking/Mega%20Avalanche%202007/slides/DSCF4618.JPG

[Conor]

The entry is closed but the reserve list is still open:

Join here:

http://www.activeeurope.com/Events/index.cfm?AC=EventDetails&E=49607

[chucky]

Pete - Looks like im gonna be going with you. PM me your mobile number or something and ill arrange to get you some funds.

[MrNuts]

You going then chucky?

[chucky]

Yea, as long as im home by Monday night, i'll be good. Have to be in Manchester on Tuesday with work.

[RobS]

Have you lads started looking at travel plans yet?
I won't be able to do anything for the Belfast-Scotland crossings but might be able to get something discounted for Dover-Calais, will check it out with the girl at work that deals with the ferry companies.

[Cotic]

We have the boats booked

[Conor]

Well, everybody got their insurance and Doctor notes sorted yet? ;)

[marko]

ordered my spare mech hanger there and will get the insurance sorted during the week along with a vets note.

[Conor]

I've changed the Belfast-Stranraer sailings.

Mark, no need to do yours, we're under the same booking. No extra charge either.

Pete, you need to change the return Belfast-Stranraer crossing from Tuesday 15th July at 7.50pm to Monday 14th July at 7.50pm.

We're changing the Dover crossing from Monday 14th at 8pm to Monday 14th at 7am. can't get through to P&O... useless call centre!!!!!!!

[Conor]

My P&O crossing has been changed:

Return: Calais-Dover 0700, Monday 14th July.

I suggest you do the same. There's a £15 fee for changing unfortunately.

[Conor]

http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Alpe-d-Huez/hindcasts/2008-05-29/top


Looks like the snow is going to be even worse this year than last :(

It basically looks like it has been snowing for the last two weeks and the temp hasn't gone above freezing.

Nightmare.

Rob, any info? How is the spring going out there? Colder than normal?

[marko]

guess we will have to drink more than last year to balance it up?

[Conor]

good idea

http://www.mournemtb.com/conor/Mountain%20Biking/Mega%20Avalanche%202007/slides/DSCF4576.JPG

[Cotic]

Well, everybody got their insurance and Doctor notes sorted yet? ;)


*scratches head*

[RobS]

naaah, it was a good late season but it's pretty normal for it to 'snow' at that altitude at this time of year, it will just be that ol' pissy snow while it rains at resort level!
will have everlasting memories of the wretching noises from the loos at 3000m while marko got that day's breakfast out of him!!:alcohol:

[Conor]

*scratches head*

you need a letter of "fitness" from a Doctor or similar to compete. You need insurance so you can be air lifted off the mountain when you crash.

[Conor]

Hope to hell this crap isn't going on in Calais next month!!

http://news.bbc.co.uk/1/hi/world/europe/7443257.stm

[Conor]

BTW, just calculated fuel costs, going to be around £120 each, so make sure you budget that in your spending money! Forget what the tolls were but it'll be about £25 each at the very most. IT would almost be cheaper to fly :eek:

[Cotic]

Insurance sorted, cheque on way from Chucky, Docs letter on way, fitness crap. I am almost ready :-)

[marko]

changed the ferry crossing there so i am on the same one as everyone else.


flights and transfers on top are still more but if diesel keeps going up then next year there won't be a difference.

[Conor]

If we go next year it will have to be at least 3 per car or even better a van plus two full cars. And make it a full two weeks to get the value out of it.

[Cotic]

Just got European breakdown cover £ 50

This trip is getting more expensive every day!

[Conor]

Entry list hidden on a completely different website! James' entry was meant to be swapped for Danny's ages ago but it hasn't changed!!! These people are useless!!!!

http://www.avalanchecup.com/megavalanche-alpe-dhuez-liste-inscrits-08.html

[marko]

Warner Rob Giant bicycles England

please tell me he will be there,

maybe that was him last year after all?

[monty]

"Moseley Tracy
Kona les gets
Royaume uni"

Bita competition there lads;)

[Conor]

Luckily for us the ladies are racing separately!!


I hope I'm not near Warner on the start!!!

[Cotic]

Conor, how about some training this weekend? ::yikes::

[Conor]

Would love to, but unfortunately I'll be sunning myself by a pool in the South of France :)

[Cotic]

Life is tough

[chucky]

I'll more than likely be in tolly on saturday if you fancy a few runs.

[marko]

i'm training this weekend chucky. will be lifting pints watching the euros :)

[Conor]

Just back from France. The weather has been crap for the last 6 weeks- rain at low level and snow up high. Our flight path went along the Pyrenees. All I can say is there was virtually no snow on them this time last year... this year they have absolutely loads of snow on them. The Alps will be the same!

[Conor]

Don't forget passport sized photos for the lift passes.

Or are they doing them digitally now, Rob?

[Conor]

Also remember your spare set of car light bulbs, hazard triangle, high viz vest, GB/NI/UK bumper sticker or EU flag plates. I'm bringing a tow rope... you never know!

I can't bloody wait!!!

[Cotic]

All set

[RobS]

I'll stick the workstand in again lads, anyone bringing a track pump in their car?

[Conor]

Yeah, Pete is bringing a stand and a pump. I'm bringing CO2 cartridges.

Rob, you bringing your laptop? taking sketchy cam with me so I'll need a computer to download the footage off every day.

[chucky]

Am i right in thinking you need a fire extinguisher in your car too?

[RobS]

Yeah, Pete is bringing a stand and a pump. I'm bringing CO2 cartridges.

Rob, you bringing your laptop? taking sketchy cam with me so I'll need a computer to download the footage off every day.

yea mate, will take it no bother, as long as you've the leads you need.

[Conor]

Am i right in thinking you need a fire extinguisher in your car too?

Not sure about that one! Most of these things are actually just recommendations rather than laws.


yea mate, will take it no bother, as long as you've the leads you need.

Cheers. Yeah, just going to bring my USB card reader.

[Conor]

Just a head's up.... Dog Tag aren't covering the event this year so you need to find another insurer like snowcard.

[tinkerhil]

Yeah, Pete is bringing a stand and a pump. I'm bringing CO2 cartridges.

Rob, you bringing your laptop? taking sketchy cam with me so I'll need a computer to download the footage off every day.

Conor you can take my helmetcam and media recorder with you. That means you can record from top till bottom if you like. Ya got my no if ya want it.

[Cotic]

Are we all set?


Bikes 10/10
Travel arrangements 10/10
Fitness 1/10
Elbow 0/10

[Conor]

Conor you can take my helmetcam and media recorder with you. That means you can record from top till bottom if you like. Ya got my no if ya want it.

Cheers for the offer Paddy! I'll not take it though as: A) I'll probably loose it, B) If I don't loose it I'll break it, C) 2GB memory cards for my camera are only £12, that gives me an hour of footage per card.

Thanks anyway.

[Fiorelli]

Don't forget passport sized photos for the lift passes.

Dog Tag aren't covering the event this year



do we need pics, havent needed them before to get lift pass?

where did you hear dogtag arent covering the event?

so how many people are defo going now and is hotel in calais sorted?

questions, questions!

just got info on where I'll be staying, rue de la poste in alp d'huez beside the lifts :) .... still not excited about it yet tho:rolleyes:

[Conor]

do we need pics, havent needed them before to get lift pass?

Yeah, we needed them last year, unless they're changed the system for this year.



where did you hear dogtag arent covering the event?


From another website (STW). Probably best checking their website though.



so how many people are defo going now and is hotel in calais sorted?


Eight! Hotel isn't quite sorted... will be by Monday though.




just got info on where I'll be staying, rue de la poste in alp d'huez beside the lifts :) .... still not excited about it yet tho:rolleyes:

That dump?! Poor you ;)

[MrNuts]

Are we all set?


Bikes 10/10
Travel arrangements 10/10
Fitness 1/10
Elbow 0/10


I've a couple of Elbow Cd's that i could burn copies for you:p

[Cotic]

I've a couple of Elbow Cd's that i could burn copies for you:p


I wish it was funny.........


Feeling abit better today, I am hoping after the pain of the injection and the physio wears off it will be ok, if not its going to be :alcohol:

[MrNuts]

I wish it was funny.........


Feeling abit better today, I am hoping after the pain of the injection and the physio wears off it will be ok, if not its going to be :alcohol:



Oops, didn't realise you were injured!
What happened?

[Cotic]

I have an RSI in my elbow, too much work ...... and before you even think of it its in my left arm!


Is everyone else organised?

[MrNuts]

I have an RSI in my elbow, too much work ...... and before you even think of it its in my left arm!




You could be cack handed?;)

[Cotic]

More than likely ::yikes::

[Conor]

My bike is prepped and ready. Toolbox packed, spares packed away..... and I've even packed my riding gear and clothes!!! How organised am I??!!

BTW, hotel booked, costly fee of €18 each.

[Cotic]

Bikes ready, tool box packed elbow in agony, this time next week!

[Conor]

Wasn't able to get a hotel with a secure car park but I've asked them if we can bring the bikes inside.

[MrNuts]

When do you guys depart on your adventure?

[Conor]

5.45am Saturday 5th July :)
Back Monday 14th July 11pm :(

[chucky]

Pete - I'll give you a call tonight to sort things out etc.

Mark - The bike racks sitting here for whenever you want it, just drop me a buzz, if im not in - im sure somebody will be.

[Conor]

Weather is crap out there as well, raining most days this week:

http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Alpe-d-Huez/6day/bot

and it's snowing at the top

http://www.snow-forecast.com/resorts/Alpe-d-Huez/6day/top

http://conormansell.co.uk/Mountain%20Biking/Mega%20Avalanche%202007/slides/DSCF4587.JPG

[Conor]

Oh, BTW Mark, remember to get a number plate with an EU flag on it for the rack, there's nowhere to stick a GB/NI/IRL/SCO sticker/plate on. Wikis do them, £10.

[Cotic]

Are we all set?

Chucky, I will make contact later for final plans

[MrNuts]

Good luck lads

[Cotic]

Good luck lads


We will need it :rolleyes:

[MrNuts]

The weather looks good for the drive through France

[MrNuts]

We will need it :rolleyes:

How did your training program end up going?

[Cotic]

How did your training program end up going?

It didnt, but Conor says not to worry as it is all downhill :banghead:


Elbow is well on the mend which was worrying me more than the fitness to be honest

[Conor]

Yeah, getting there. Just got to pick up the other guy's stuff realy. Got the MP3 player wired into the stereo last night so no crappy French radio for me :)

Think I've over packed on tools... Pete what are you taking? My tool box now weighs more than my bike and I need to cut back on some stuff. BTW Pete.... I don't answer my phone in work during the day... too expensive.