You don’t have to be a loyal Tour de France fan or even an avid cyclist to be completely mesmerized by the sheer skill involved in the competition. For the first time since I’ve lived in Paris, I found myself with a front-row spot to witness the riders, buffeted by wind and heavy rain at the start of the ride in Sèvres, whip through Paris for a momentous finale. Stationed at the Place de la Concorde, the riders cracked smiles as fans beamed and cheered from the sidelines and from the edge of the Tuileries Gardens. There is truly something to be said for the sense of community spirit that bubbles uncontrollably to the surface during moments like these. As I snapped photographs in wild succession, the man next to me guided me forward for an unobstructed view. We smiled at one another as if old friends but really it was the tacit knowledge that we both were living a unique experience that fostered the camaraderie.

With such palpable energy, I returned home with not only a deeper respect for the sport but a desire to get myself back on a bike and ride.

Sincere thanks to TrekTravel who provided such a fantastic viewing space for the big event! Visit their website to review the cycling trips they offer around the world.

For more Tour de France photos, click HERE.