Cyrille, a childhood cycling dream

Cyrille, can you introduce yourself?

Cyrille Papon, lucky dad of three and happy companion to Julie, who supports me in all my endeavors. I've had a fantastic job: a state-registered sailor for 28 years, which gave me a taste for adventure, contact with nature and people.

My grandfather gave me my first bike and passed on to me his love for beautiful and simple things: thank you grandpa. I've been traveling by bike since I was 14, and it was with my father that I started traveling by bike. When I was 14, we both travelled 600 km to see the North Sea: magical, and I thank him for this beautiful heritage. I've passed on this taste for adventure to my children, who themselves I hope will continue to perpetuate this family tradition.

I had the privilege of realizing my childhood dream in the summer of 2021: I crossed the Route des Grandes Alpes® from Toulon to Brest by touring bike. This crossing of the RGA® was a revelation, it made sense to me and gave me the path to follow. Today, I want to pass on the joy of bicycle travel to as many people as possible through our joint associative project with Julie: "Souriez Vous Pédalez!". A call to cycling happiness!

A story to share?

It has so many! In fact, that's what motivates people to travel by bike. The most touching: a 79-year-old racing cyclist who accompanied me up the Col de l'Iseran. I was impressed, admiring and touched by his attention. I loved this moment of sharing.

The most beautiful: a group of cyclists who accompanied me on the last few kilometers of the Col de Cormet de Roselend and took a photo of me at the top of the pass after intense effort and joy. Another great moment of sharing.