Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Classic

The Haute-Savoie Mont-Blanc Classic is a mountain cyclosportive held in Sallanches, at the foot of the Mont-Blanc massif, with its first edition scheduled for early September. It is also known as the Bernard Hinault Experience, indicating the race emphasizes French cycling history alongside a significant day on Alpine roads. Participants can select a 60 km option suitable for beginners, families, and less experienced amateurs, a 105 km route with approximately 2,300 m of elevation gain, or a 167 km route with up to 3,900 m of climbing. Both primary routes commence and conclude in Sallanches, utilizing roads connected to the UCI World Championships courses. The extended route includes the cote de Domancy, the ascent where Bernard Hinault secured the road world title, clarifying his involvement with the event. Approximately 3,500 amateur cyclists are anticipated, suggesting a mass-participation event rather than a professional-exclusive one, fostering a club-like atmosphere where participants offer mutual encouragement during challenging climbs.