Fine French frolics
Among all the French historic motorcycling events, le Puy Notre-Dame is considered special. Which perhaps explains why this year saw the greatest number of participants and spectators in its 23 year history. More than 150 entrants made up the three motorcycle classes – tourisme, course and sidecars – over 30 coming from the UK and being the most significant overseas contingent.
For first time riders, the Puy Notre-Dame circuit can appear daunting, its clockwise 1.5 kilometres being tight and narrow throughout.
Heading out into the country, along the Rue du Stade, you encounter the first hairpin bend at the entrance of the Rue du Parc. Rounding this, you enter the long, fast downhill straight leading to the Place Gâte d’Argent chicane. After negotiating this, you’re back in town. Another hairpin bend leads onto the Rue des Ducs d’Aquitaine. Next, a gentle bend brings you onto the Rue de la Mairie and a straight run to the finishing line.
Saturday saw each class run twice, starting in the blistering heat of late afternoon and finishing under lights after midnight. Thus there were some bleary eyes when Sunday morning came. Most made the mixed inauguration run at 10. Even
