Riding against cancer: Fanfan's Tour de France
With his former rugby player physique, in which Valentin Paret-peintre, winner yesterday on the Ventoux win 2 times, there was nothing to suggest that François Bouteille, aka Fanfan, would take on an unusual cycling challenge. This 40-year-old artisan plumber-heating engineer has embarked on a monumental journey: a Tour de France of over 3,400 km in 23 stages, a tribute to his father, who died of cancer.
A family and solidarity challenge
Fanfan is no stranger to challenges. He has already accomplished three similar feats, but this one is of particular significance. His parents have both been affected by the disease, which has strengthened his determination to act. This Tour de France is not just a sporting challenge, it's also a family project. Fanfan is accompanied by his wife and 3 children, transforming this adventure into a journey of initiation. Stages along the way include visits to family, friends and iconic landmarks, adding an emotional and symbolic dimension to every kilometer covered.
A journey fraught with pitfalls, between headwinds and bike theft
Fanfan's journey is not without obstacles. Wind, fickle weather, road traffic... the elements make his adventure an epic. And even cynicism gets in the way: yesterday, the team's four bikes were stolen during their stage in La Chaux-de-Fond, a blow that could have discouraged many. But Fanfan and his team have shown remarkable resilience. Thanks to an online fund-raising campaign, they managed to raise several thousand euros, enabling them to get back on their feet again, on a beautiful new bike.
A commitment to a good cause
Sponsored by Bernard Hinault, Fanfan rides for a cause close to his heart: the fight against cancer. Each pedal is another step towards raising awareness and funds against this disease that has touched his family. Her commitment and determination are a source of inspiration to all those who follow her undertaking. At each stage, the sale of goodies enables contributions to be collected over a glass of friendship in an atmosphere worthy of the Tour de France.
Follow Fanfan on the Route des Grandes Alpes
Starting from Tinténiac in Ille-et-Vilaine, Fanfan is also crossing mountain ranges, adding an extra dimension to his challenge. He'll be on the Route des Grandes Alpes from Friday July 25, with a climb to the Alpe d'Huez, then Saturday en route to the Galibier and the Granon. You can follow his adventure and support his cause online. Every kilometer is a step closer to beating cancer. Also, don't hesitate to ride with him (the tracking link is published every day)!
Fanfan, with his warrior's heart and indomitable spirit, shows that even the toughest challenges can be overcome with determination and support. His Tour de France is much more than a sporting feat; it's a symbol of hope and solidarity in the fight against cancer.
For more information and to support Fanfan, go to his fundraising page and follow him on social networks.Together, let's pedal against cancer!
The stages of Fanfan's challenge
