We sent five from the office to this year’s Etape, and they returned with stories of epic proportions. The most staggering observation by them is the huge number of people taking part, and it is a fact that this event gets oversubscribed.

The only way to get a ride in next years Etape is through a travel agent authorised by Velo magazine (the organisers) such as Sports Tours International. Sports Tours initial allocation of 300 spaces has already sold out and the only way you can get a place with them at the moment is by booking a place on their Etape training week at Club La Santa in January next year. Enter now and you’ll get an automatic entry into the 2006 Etape. Quote ET6 when you book and you’ll get a £50 discount. Visit the website to book a place.

The other way is to go on the RCUK Classic Cols reader trip. It’s filling up quick but you’ll get a free entry for the Etape if you do.

We’ll be there again next year, hopefully we’ll see you there