In the realm of cycling, where challenges are met with unwavering determination, Ottawa cyclists Rob Orange and Greg Reain stand out as formidable figures. Their impressive track record in cyclocross, both at the national level and on the global stage representing Canada, attests to their grit and focus. Yet, these two athletes are not content to rest on their laurels. Instead, they continue to seek out adventures that push the boundaries of their endurance and skills.
The awe-inspiring climbs cyclists face during the seven mountainous stages of the Tour de France would be light work for Orange and Reain after the pinnacle of cycling challenges they recently completed in the French Alps – the Cent Cols Challenge, renowned as one of the toughest cycling events globally.
The premise is deceptively simple yet ruthlessly demanding: climb 100 mountain passes in just ten days of relentless riding.
Embarking on a journey that started and culminated in Nice on the Côte d’Azur, Orange and Reain covered a staggering 2,000 km in the formidable French Alps. This extreme ride included tackling iconic ascents like Mont Ventoux, Col de la Madeleine, and la Col du Galibier.
A typical day in the Cent Cols Challenge involves a commitment of eight to ten hours on a bicycle, navigating 200 kilometres of diverse terrain, and conquering elevation gains of up to 5,000 metres where the thinning air becomes your enemy as much as cramping and soreness do.
To put this into perspective, it’s akin to completing 10 Ironman races consecutively. This gruelling challenge demands not only physical prowess but also an unyielding mental fortitude. Capturing the essence of this extraordinary journey, Chelsea-based adventure filmmaker Mike McKay and former Canadian Olympian Lyne Bessette joined Orange and Reain. Together, they documented the triumphs, struggles, and sheer resilience exhibited by the cyclists during the Cent Cols Challenge as they battled the mountains and their own bodies to show what they were capable of. The result is a riveting one-hour feature aptly titled The Cent Cols Challenge that follows the cyclists through all the trials and tribulations of going up and down ten mountains a day for ten days.
The cinematic premiere of this journey is set to unfold at Ottawa’s Mayfair Theatre on Thursday, December 28, 2023, at 2:00 p.m. The screening promises an immersive experience, delving into the heart of this awe-inspiring cycling odyssey.
Cycling enthusiasts, adventure seekers, and film aficionados should secure seats for an afternoon of inspiration and awe. The Cent Cols Challenge promises not just a film screening but an invitation to witness the indomitable human spirit taking on the most formidable cycling challenge in the world.
Adding to the allure of this cinematic event, both Orange and Reain will share firsthand accounts of their monumental feat. Audiences will have the unique opportunity to engage with the cyclists, gaining insights into the challenges they faced, the euphoria of triumph, and the indomitable spirit that fueled their journey.
Tickets for this exclusive premiere can be purchased in advance by clicking here.
A series of other short films will also be screened along with the documentary between 2:00 p.m. and 5:00 p.m. — the perfect reprieve from the busy holiday activities.
