Just spotted a tough sportive that the fellas at les Deux Alpes have put together.  It will take place on Sunday 24th August and the route is staggeringly tough - check it out at: 

http://www.sportcommunication.com/pantani/

It is a Marco Pantani Memorial ride and you will need to climb like him just to get round.  I think it is even tougher than the Marmotte sportive.  Some unusual cols have been chosen, not least the col du Parquetout (a wickedly tough climb that almost nobody ever rides) and the classic col d'Ornon too.

I think Helyn will be doing it.

Guy

www.kingofthemountains.co.uk