On Saturday 2nd, L’Etape Series came back for the second time of the year in Czech Republic. After the historical event in Prague in June, the magic of Tour de France landed for the second year in Prachatice. From the heart of this historical city, more than 1,000 cyclists faced a mountain stage, with a 110km route and more than 2,300m of elevation. Despite the rain, the riders had the chance to discover beautiful landscapes over the South Bohemia region, including a breathtaking path through Český Krumlov, a UNESCO World Heritage town. All along the race, narrow roads, steep gradients, and smooth asphalt offered both beauty and challenge to the participants.

A true Tour de France atsmophere !

Like in Prague, the atmosphere offered by the different villages was absolutely amazing, and really made riders experienced the unique Tour de France feeling. Every fan point gathered hundreds of fans with flags, bells & music bands. And the rain didn’t reduce spectators’ enthusiasm at all!

Andy Schleck as official event ambassador

If the first event in Prague had the honor to host Sir Bradley Wiggins, Prachatice also had a very special guest during the week-end. Winner of the Tour de France 2010, Andy Schleck was the official ambassador of the second Czech event of the year. People had the opportunity to connect with the cyclist from Luxembourg on the village, and to ride side by side with him during the race on Saturday.

It was really something that brought an additional 'Tour de France' spirit to this great event!