Locusrite MD Paul Ricket Conquers the Legendary Marmotte Granfondo Alpes
Last weekend, Locusrite’s Managing Director, Paul Ricket, tackled one of the toughest amateur cycling events in the world: the Marmotte Granfondo Alpes.
Spanning a punishing 177 kilometers with over 5,000 meters of vertical climbing, the epic route features a relentless succession of the most legendary mountain passes in cycling history, including the Col du Glandon, Col du Galibier, and the ultimate finish up the 21 iconic hairpin bends of Alpe d’Huez.
Adding to the monumental physical challenge, Europe’s recent summer heatwave followed the riders straight into the mountains, bringing brutal, energy-sapping temperatures to the valley floors and lower climbs. Pushing through the intense alpine heat against a massive international field of approximately 7,500 riders, Paul put in an exceptional performance to finish comfortably within the top 30% of all competitors.
Tackling the grueling event in custom-designed gear, Paul flew the flag for the business by sporting a sleek jersey featuring the Locusrite branding alongside all sister companies across the Vista Group.
“The Marmotte is an absolute beast of a ride, and the baking heatwave conditions made it twice as hard this year,” Paul reflected after crossing the finish line. “The heat in the valleys and the pure length of the climbs like the Galibier really take it out of your legs before you even reach the bottom of Alpe d’Huez. By the final few switchbacks, it was just about finding a rhythm, keeping the pedals turning, and focusing on reaching the summit.”
The entire team at Locusrite congratulates Paul on an extraordinary achievement of endurance and grit!