The first ever climb that we filmed as part of The Col Collective, on June 16th 2014, so for that reason alone an ascent that will always be close to my heart. I’ve been fortunate enough to ride the Col d’Aubisque from Laruns a number of times in the past and every time I get the same feeling of nervous excitement inside, knowing that at this point I’m heading deep into the high mountains. For me the Aubisque really marks the gateway to the Pyrenees and is the entrance towards a playground of cols that have not only played centre stage for the professionals in races like the Tour de France but also for thousands of amateur and cycling enthusiasts like me that simply want to experience the climb for themselves. Hautacam, Tourmalet, Peyresourde all have their stories but the Aubisque is the one that gets things started. The goal is to make it to the summit so take your time and whatever happens don’t forget to look around and enjoy the view!