Puerto Vallarta, Jalisco, Mexico – Puerto Vallarta cyclists Erik Fernando Godínez Peña and Joel Cruz Hernández are off to Europe for the prestigious L’Étape du Tour de France 2024, with the support of the Municipal Sports Council (COMUDE). This unique event grants amateur cyclists the opportunity to chase the same dream as the pros, tackling a closed-road stage of the Tour de France itself.
L’Étape du Tour de France is a once-a-year event mirroring a stage of the world-renowned Tour de France, the pinnacle of professional road cycling. Here, over 16,000 cycling enthusiasts can experience the thrill of closed roads, cheering crowds, and the electric atmosphere surrounding a stage of the Tour. This year, the event takes place in the picturesque city of Nice, France.
Erik Fernando, competing in the Elite category, and Joel secured spots for this year’s edition. They will attempt the challenging penultimate stage of the Tour de France, which mimics the route from the Mediterranean city to the Col de la Couillole summit.
Originally scheduled for July 7th, the event was moved a day earlier due to unforeseen French elections. So, on July 6th, Godínez Peña and Cruz Hernández will embark on a 138-kilometer journey, tackling a demanding climb with a total elevation gain of 4,591 meters.
Though the task may seem daunting, Erik and Joel are ready to test their limits and embrace this monumental adventure. Their participation not only highlights their personal dedication but also shines a spotlight on Puerto Vallarta’s growing presence in the world of cycling.
